Alternatives to AA: How Non-12 Step Rehab Can Empower Recovery

Do 12 Step Recovery Groups Work for Everyone?

12 step groups are popular, with many people aware of AA even without a history of substance abuse. However, the 12 step model doesn’t resonant with everyone. At Aliya, we believe Recovery should be personalized and flexible. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. Sometimes, it takes some experimentation to find the right fit. Other times, individuals have a good idea of what won’t work for them. Although many people find motivation to leave their addiction in the past through the 12 steps, some find it unsuccessful. 

Here are a few potential reasons why you might prefer to look at non 12 step rehab.

Focus on Religion and Spiritual Forces

Notably, 12 step recovery groups include a spiritual elements as a key part of programming. There are 12 actions or principles to work on that lead you further down the path of healing. Throughout these 12 steps, the program prompts you to look towards a higher power as a source of strength. However, everyone is allowed to interpret it differently. Individuals can carry their religious beliefs into 12 step programming. On the other hand, they can take a more spiritual approach. Yet, the basis of the program requires a willingness to believe in a higher being as a source of motivation.

Lack of Individualized Approach

Another reason why people may prefer to look beyond 12 step programs is the uniformity of the methodology. The 12 steps are well-understood and widely used across many issue-specific recovery programs, as discussed. However, the 12 steps remain the same across all types of groups. Whether you struggle with a behavioral addiction, a history of trauma, a mental disorder, or a substance disorder, the steps are the same. Because Recovery cannot fit into a box, some people may have trouble connecting the 12 steps to their unique situation. Although some people find relief that the 12 steps are the same for everyone, others feel as though some element is missing.

Peer-Led Meetings

12 step meetings are peer-led, meaning they are run by a group leader. These leaders are trained in the 12 step methodology and have often completed the program themselves. They are skilled at fostering the group support mentality and promoting a space where belonging and acceptance flourish. Group support is a key tenet of the 12 steps, as they are run by peers. Without a doubt, this can be a huge draw for people who long for the connection with other sober peers. However, for rehab run by licensed medical counselors or therapists, you will need to work with a professional treatment center. Peer-led meetings are a better option for those who’ve graduated from rehab, like those living in our Sober Living Housing.

Non 12 Step Programs for Substance Abuse  

Understandably, 12 step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous are not the right fit for everybody. As part of our mission to make rehab accessible and flexible to meet everyone’s needs, we also offer non 12 step rehab. If you’re interested in meeting with a non 12 step program, we can connect you to a variety of recovery groups. Some of the addiction recovery options we support are SMART Recovery, LifeRing, Women for Sobriety, and Moderation Management. Surely, rehab without 12 steps exists for your concerns, whether they be substance abuse, mental disorders, or behavioral addictions. Let’s discuss some of the non 12 step options. If you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery is a secular recovery program that stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training. Additionally, it utilizes SMART goal-setting that is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Instead of focusing on a higher power, the emphasis is placed on self-empowerment. Along with the above principles, SMART Recovery has four main pillars: motivation, coping with cravings, living with balance, and managing oneself. All in all, SMART Recovery programming aims to help individuals improve in attainable ways.

LifeRing Secular Recovery

LifeRing Secular Recovery is an anonymous program for those struggling with substance addictions, whether alcohol or drugs. This organization also has a secular focus when it comes to motivations, empowerment, and goal-setting. LifeRing’s programming stems from Organizations for Sobriety, so there is some overlap. It has a 3-S core philosophy, which is: sobriety, secularity, and self-help. As such, individuals draw their fundamental inspiration to stay abstinent by picturing their Sober Self and making decisions to become them.

Women for Sobriety

Women for Sobriety is a non 12 step rehab program for those with all kinds of substance disorders. This women-only recovery program focuses on the ways women experience addiction, covering topics like guilt, low self-esteem, and mental health. Their non 12 step alcohol rehab and drug rehab is based on peer community and their 13 acceptance statements. These are to be reviewed, reflected on, and lived out every day, thus shaping the individual’s overall thinking.

Moderation Management

Moderation Management is an online community resource for those who want to drink in moderation without relapsing into unhealthy patterns. It aims help individuals change their behavior and make healthy lifestyle choices, whether that looks like moderation or sobriety. Notably, the MM program is free and available online at all times. Members can choose to connect with a core group or simply utilize the program resources.