Many misconceptions surround 12-Step recovery. One of them is that people who participate in 12-Step recovery believe that their way is the only way. This couldn’t be further from the truth. It even says so in the primary 12-Step text (most commonly referred to as “The Big Book”). The truth is that there are many effective non-12-step recovery options out there. The key is to find what works and stick to it.

What Exactly Is Non-12-Step Recovery?

Non-12-Step recovery is exactly what it sounds like. This category encompasses programs that focus on ways to recover that don’t involve a step system. However, these programs usually do involve community rather than trying to recover on one’s own.

There are many different types of non-12-Step recovery, all of which focus on working with others and doing service. Two of these programs differentiate themselves from 12-Step recovery through their takes on spirituality. These two programs are SMART Recovery and Recovery Dharma. However, while they do differ, they do not diminish people who benefit from 12-Step programs, and vice versa.

Is Non-12-Step Recovery Anti-12-Step?

The 12-Step Big Book has a section entitled Working With Others. In it, the authors discuss what to do if an individual wishes to pursue other avenues of recovery. It reads, “If he thinks he can do the job in some other way, or prefers some other spiritual approach, encourage him to follow his own conscience. We have no monopoly on God; we merely have an approach that worked with us.” This statement by the 12-Step founders is important, as it reaffirms the role of free will in recovery. If someone feels trapped in a recovery system, they may recoil and relapse.

The chapter continues, “But point out that we [in recovery] have much in common and that you would like, in any case, to be friendly. Let it go at that.” What matters is that someone recovers, not how someone recovers.

Understanding Recovery Dharma

Recovery Dharma is a program that works on recovery based on Buddhist principles. According to the program description, “Recovery Dharma offers an approach to recovery based on Buddhist principles. Our program is peer-led and non-theistic. We welcome all those who wish to pursue recovery as part of our community.”

This philosophy varies from 12-Step recovery in that 12-Step recovery has a focus on spirituality. However, it is up to the discretion of the individual. Nevertheless, Recovery Dharma is also quick to point out that they are open to anyone who wishes to recover, not just practicing Buddhists. The next form of 12-Step recovery differs in spirituality in that it focuses exclusively on science and reason instead.

Understanding SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training. It is a program that focuses on service and science.

According to the program’s mission statement, “SMART is a powerful recovery community that includes passionate volunteers who recovered with SMART who are driven to help others. Peers and professionals working together fuse science and experience to help people build healthy and balanced lives.” However, just like 12-Step and Recovery Dharma, this approach does not insist that they provide the exclusive way to recover. The program founders simply know what worked for them.

Focusing On Religious Beliefs for Recovery

In the Bible, Matthew 5:16, Jesus tells his followers, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” This is emblematic of the way that spirituality and service in practiced religion can be critical for recovery.

Some people who recover opt to either reengage with the religion that they practiced before recovery or with a new type of religion. People find that a religious community is the best way to connect to spiritual practice and God (Higher Power) which can be vital for recovery.

Also, many people who have a focus on religion for their recovery work with other types of recovery communities. It is certainly not uncommon for someone to be both active in their religion and The Twelve Steps.

Utilizing Many Methods for Recovery at Clearview

Here at Clearview, we also believe that there is no monopoly in recovery. We also believe that the more options that we have for recovery the better. Also, sometimes a combination of recovery communities is the most ideal way to succeed in long-term recovery.

There is a saying in 12-Step recovery that goes “Live and let live.” This means that we should let people do what works best for them. This includes how they choose to recover.

There is also something known as the “Responsibility Statement” in 12-Step recovery. It goes, “I am responsible, when anyone, anywhere reaches out for help, I want the hand of [recovery] always to be there. And for that: I am responsible.” This is also what recovery is all about for us at Clearview Horizon Girls Academy. We strive to help our students recover, and for that effort, we are proudly responsible.

12-Step recovery is perhaps the most well-known recovery program out there. However, even the 12-Step founders are quick to point out that they do not offer the only way to recover. To paraphrase their ideas on other recovery methods, “We hold no monopoly on recovery.” Many other options for recovery exist, such as SMART Recovery and Recovery Dharma. The key is to remember that recovery is unique. What is most important is that it works for the individual (and that they stick to it). If you feel like your daughter may be struggling with issues of addiction, mental health, or both, we can help. For more information on non-12-Step recovery, reach out to Clearview at 866-584-4788.