Popular Alternatives to 12-Step Treatment

Because Alcoholics Anonymous is one of the oldest and best-known solutions for people seeking to break the cycle of addiction, it’s become synonymous with recovery in some people’s minds. However, if you are exploring drug and alcohol rehabs for yourself or a loved one, you should know that 12-step programs like AA and NA aren’t your only choice.

No two people are alike, which means recovery isn’t a one-size-fits-all process. While many people have discovered success in following the 12-step model, you may find a different treatment method resonates more with you. Knowing you have the power to customize your sobriety journey can give you the confidence to find a solution that fully suits your needs.

Reasons to Explore Alternatives to 12-Step Treatment

Why might you want to consider options other than the traditional 12-step path to addiction recovery?

• You prefer to take a holistic approach to your overall health and well-being.
• You’re seeking a secular alternative to the faith-based 12-step method.
• You are returning to treatment after experiencing a relapse.
• You have a dual diagnosis of addiction and a co-occurring mental health disorder.
• You’re looking for therapies that help you uncover and address the root cause of your self-destructive behavior.
• You want a more flexible approach that allows you to choose between different treatment modalities.
• You appreciate the option to participate in complementary therapies like massage, yoga and acupuncture as part of your rehabilitation.
• You believe addiction treatment should empower and enlighten you.
• You know your past doesn’t define your future.

You Have Other Options

If you aren’t religious, you might struggle to connect with the 12 steps because they specifically require you to surrender to a higher power. Though the program doesn’t necessarily dictate that your higher power must be a deity, you might still prefer a treatment option rooted in science instead of faith. Alternative addiction treatments like SMART Recovery and psychotherapy teach people with substance use disorders that they have the innate ability to overcome their addictions and live an independent, fulfilling life.

Overcoming an addiction involves not only committing to significant lifestyle changes, but also thinking differently about yourself and your relationships. Negativity is one common characteristic of addiction. Cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy have proven highly effective for addiction treatment because they teach people to change their thoughts and habits.

Hybrid Addiction Treatment in California

At Complete Harmony, we believe the most effective addiction treatment program is one tailored to meet your unique needs. If you prefer a faith-based approach, we will use the 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous as the foundation of your recovery. However, if you aren’t religious and believe you’d benefit more from secular, research-based treatment methods, we leave that choice in your hands.

Our hybrid addiction treatment program relies on a synthesis of proven therapeutic modalities that teach you how to manage your illness and heal – mentally, physically and spiritually. Connect with us today to learn more about your alternatives to 12-step treatment.

Recognizing Small Victories in Recovery

Did you go out to dinner with friends and order water? Did you take a different route to avoid a bar you used to frequent? Did you take time to journal or meditate today? Did you get out of bed on a bad day? Whether you’ve been in recovery for one day, one week or one year, all of these seemingly small victories add up.  

Addiction recovery takes work, persistence, continual learning and motivation – and celebrating your successes (no matter how small) along the way can empower you to keep the positive momentum going. Of course, your first step is to acknowledge your progress. Keeping a journey is a great way to track your recovery wins. Then, how you celebrate your victories is up to you! Just be sure that you do so in a healthy and sober way. 

Here are a few ideas: 

• Write down small wins on a piece of paper and drop them in a mason jar. This way you can revisit these victories anytime you need motivation or encouragement. 
• Keep a recovery win journal and writing down daily wins that have helped with your recovery.
• Give yourself the gift of time. Allow yourself an hour to focus on something you always put off, without feeling guilty. 
• Pack a picnic and head to the park or go for a long hike.
• Pamper yourself. Take a bubble bath or give yourself a facial.
• Arrange a movie night or afternoon in the park with someone who has supported you and your recovery.
• Try a new hobby, like learning to play an instrument or taking art classes.
• Visit a new place.
• Join a local recovery event.
• Give back to your recovery community by volunteering or simply sharing your story with others.

Begin SMART Recovery at Complete Harmony

An effective alternative to 12-step programs, SMART Recovery® teaches self-empowering addiction recovery. Clients learn to make self-directed change in order to replace destructive decisions with healthy ones. To learn more, call today: 866-930-4673.