Addiction is a challenging and chronic disease that many people deal with. Some paint the road to recovery as a one-way street, but there are occasional pauses, backtracks and steps forward in the journey. Furthermore, there’s more than just one path to becoming free from drugs and alcohol.
The need for recovery
Sobriety is a coveted stage among many people facing addiction. About 48.5 million Americans aged 12 years and older dealt with a substance use disorder in 2023. Regardless of the severity, walking toward recovery can take some time.
Understanding the consequences that addiction can have on your personal and professional life is one step. However, it’s essential to seek sustainable ways of letting go of the source of your addiction and minimizing relapses.
From the traditional 12 steps to alternative programmes
The 12-step approach is one of the most well-known routes to recovery. It was popularised by Alcoholics Anonymous, detailing how people need to admit their powerlessness over alcohol and surrender themselves to a higher power that could grant sobriety. Most of the steps involve making amends and growing in spiritual awareness.
Some people find the 12-step recovery programme relatively helpful, especially with how compassionate it seems. However, others find it difficult to subscribe to the program due to the religious and spiritual undertones that it entails.
As a result, alternative programmes exist to help you find internal motivation to gain sobriety. These options are also backed up by science and research, which can be more suitable for people seeking evidence-based support.
Where to find non-12-step recovery programmes
The search for alternative rehabilitation can take some time, but there are resources to help you find your options. Here’s where you can discover non-12-step recovery programs and narrow them down.
Search meetings online
Most alternative groups are centred on peer support and sharing resources that can prevent relapse. Look up support groups and meetings of like-minded individuals who want to grow together and learn internal control.
These kinds of gatherings should have no requirements other than being someone who is struggling with their addiction. But there are more group-specific types like support groups for women or people of colour to have a more inclusive conversation about recovery.
Prioritise reputability
Some organisations may claim to offer non-12-step recovery programmes but lack a sense of direction in guiding struggling individuals. Run background checks on these options and choose rehabilitation with reputability.
Certain providers should have some presence and experience in the industry, whether it be in terms of training or credentials. You can also look up their treatment philosophies and search testimonials to gauge the program’s legitimacy.
Choose between residential and inpatient
Some non-12-step recovery programmes can be thorough in the support that they provide. Inpatient options involve admitting yourself into a controlled hospital-like environment for monitoring, while residential facilities involve care and attention within a more home-like treatment centre.
Both options are widely available across the country. As of 2023, 1,611 residential and 1,184 inpatient facilities offer mental health treatment. Determine which one would be more compatible with your recovery needs.
What to expect from non-12-step recovery programmes
Understanding what kind of treatment to expect is different from knowing where to find a non-12-step recovery programme. However, these alternatives are unique. For instance, methods like Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART) focus on developing skills to maintain abstinence.
Meanwhile, there are less strict programs like Moderation Management that focus on reducing reliance on alcohol. It promotes healthier living rather than completely removing the source of your addiction.
Who benefits most from a non-12-step approach?
If you don’t feel attuned to the 12 steps from Alcoholics Anonymous, it is worth exploring alternative approaches instead. However, it can also be beneficial for those who have already gone through the traditional program and want to consider other options to expand their knowledge on maintaining sobriety.
Make the most out of your non-12-step recovery program by selecting one that matches your needs. With the right support system and treatment, you can achieve your goals.
Find sanctuary in non-12-step recovery programmes
Becoming abstinent is a different journey for every individual, and knowing where to find a non-12-step recovery program can be a step in the right direction. If you’ve ever wanted to try something new to kick-start or revitalize your path, start the search now.
The Sanctuary at Sedona offers a science-based recovery program with an integrative and holistic approach to dual diagnosis treatment. It spans 160 clinical hours per 30 days and focuses on trauma to resolve the root causes of your addiction with brain upgrade protocols.
Receive the most effective continuing care in a private and intimate 22-acre campus. It is designed for recovery with private luxury accommodations like an IV drip clinic and the best organic gourmet food.
You can also expect a custom nutraceutical protocol and residential ketamine therapy from expert practitioners in energy medicine. These are licensed independent behavioural health professionals specializing in addiction, trauma, dual diagnoses, psychiatry and functional medicine. NAD+ Therapy is also available. Request a call from us or call 877-710-3385.
Dean Taraborelli established the Sanctuary at Sedona, where he serves as both administrator and practitioner. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and is a senior instructor with the Four Winds Society, a global institution specializing in energy medicine.