SMART Recovery for Substance Abuse Treatment

What Is SMART Recovery?

SMART Recovery is a group-based, volunteer-led recovery model offering support meetings, skills learning, and scientifically based treatments to help participants overcome addiction.¹  Founded in 1994, SMART Recovery,  which stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training, is a nationwide, nonprofit organization serving as a secular alternative to AA and NA groups.^2,3

SMART Recovery Uses and Goals

SMART Recovery offers online and in-person meetings to help those suffering from substance-based addiction (e.g., substance use disorders related to alcohol, marijuana, opioids, etc.) as well as behavioral-based addictions (e.g., eating disorders, gambling addictions, sex addiction, etc.). SMART Recovery was built around a 4-point recovery program involving self-empowerment and evidence-based practices that include:⁴

1. Building and maintain the motivation to change.
2. Coping with urges to use.
3. Managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in an effective way without addictive behaviors.
4. Living a balanced, positive, and healthy life.

Information taught through SMART recovery is heavily drawn from behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), which focus on behavioral changes to help treat addiction.⁵

SMART Recovery vs AA: How Are They Different?

Both SMART Recovery and AA utilize group dynamics and offer support through a community of peers However, there are some differences between the two programs.

• Philosophy — SMART Recovery’s underlying philosophy is a person-centric one, empowering individuals to take control of their recovery. In contrast, one of the basic tenets of AA is to admit powerlessness to addiction and the need to turn to a higher power for support and strength.
• Role of Spirituality — Because one of the foundational principles of AA is reliance on a higher power, people often wonder, “Is SMART Recovery religious-based?” The short answer is no. SMART Recovery is not inherently religious, though anyone, regardless of their spiritual leanings, can benefit from its secular evidence-based approach.
• Views on Addiction — SMART Recovery views addiction as maladaptive behavior which can be unlearned through evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). AA views addiction as a disease that can be controlled but never cured.
• Structure of Meetings — Both AA and SMART Recovery use group meetings to support recovery. SMART Recovery meetings tend to be more akin to workshops or group discussions. In contrast, AA meetings tend to have a more formal approach, with a chairperson, readings from literature, and sharing of personal stories of recovery.
• Resources and Tools — AA’s resources and tools are simple but effective: the group literature (The Big Book, the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, and other group readings), which can be read at the individual’s pace, meetings, sponsorship, and service. SMART Recovery uses a 4-point program that provides a framework for recovery, CBT and REBT techniques, worksheets and exercises, and a wealth of online resources.
• Flexibility of Approach — AA is more structured in its approach and encourages each member to work through the 12 Steps in order and with the guidance of a sponsor. While meetings are not mandatory, they are strongly encouraged. Additionally, AA emphasizes that abstinence is the only way to manage the disease of addiction. SMART Recovery, on the other hand, has more flexibility. There are no required steps to work through; individuals can choose the tools and techniques that resonate with them and best meet their needs. While abstinence is encouraged, it is not a requirement of SMART Recovery, and the program is open to individuals whose goals may be more aligned with harm reduction or moderating their substance use.

How Much Do SMART Recovery Meetings Cost?

SMART Recovery meetings are free to attend. While there is no cost to participate, donations are appreciated and help to cover expenses associated with training for facilitators, hosting, materials, printing, etc.

What Is the Success Rate of SMART Recovery?

Success in recovery can be subjective and vary from person to person. It might mean complete abstinence, reduced substance use, improved mental health, or better overall quality of life. However, there is some evidence that indicates that SMART Recovery has a great deal of benefit in helping people reduce or stop their substance use–especially when part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes an aftercare plan or program. Participants in a recent study reported the following:

• 94% reported reduction in use of or abstinence from alcohol.
• 71% saw improvement in their mental health.
• 74% saw an improvement in their physical health.
• 81% reported feeling more connected to others.

Finding Treatment That Works For You

Are you looking for support on your journey to recovery? We’re here to help! Through American Addiction Centers’ nationwide network of treatment centers, we’ve helped thousands of people get on the road to recovery and get back to living the lives they deserve.

To learn more about your treatment options, give us a call at . Our navigators are on hand to answer your questions, help you verify your insurance or go over other payment options, and support you as you take the first step toward a life of meaningful recovery from drugs and alcohol.