Addiction treatment and recovery are processes that are unique to the person seeking wellness. There are many highly effective treatment models used at treatment facilities across the nation. However, it is important to remember that addiction affects everyone in different ways, and therefore, the most effective treatment model for you may not work as well for someone else. Ensuring everyone who is motivated to seek sobriety has the opportunity to overcome addiction using a treatment model that works for them is a vital component of our goals at Rise in Malibu. Providing multiple recovery program options helps us to reach these goals.
What Are SMART Recovery Groups?
Many people are familiar with 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous. In the last 80 years, these programs have helped thousands overcome addiction and maintain lasting sobriety. Despite their success, not everyone is comfortable with the religious aspect of Alcoholics Anonymous and similar 12-step programs. SMART Recovery programs are an alternative to traditional 12-step programs.
SMART stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training. These programs provide support and guidance for anyone looking to overcome addiction. An added benefit to SMART Recovery groups is that they can be beneficial in addressing co-occurring behavioral and emotional disorders as well. Like other evidence-based therapy models, SMART helps addicts seeking recovery learn safer, healthier ways to control addictive behaviors by examining the root causes of those behaviors. Through a clearer understanding of their thoughts and feelings, it is possible to develop vital coping skills needed to manage cravings and relapse triggers.
How SMART Recovery Groups Help Treat Addiction
While 12-step programs require participants to admit they are “powerless” over their addiction, SMART Recovery promotes self-empowerment. While participating in SMART Recovery groups to help overcome addiction you will learn specific skills as part of a 4-point program.
The SMART Recovery program is not a 12-step program. Although there are “points” that each person learns, they can focus on any point, at any time in their treatment process. SMART Recovery is designed to ensure you get what you need, at the time you need it most. There is not a specific process or order to how you progress through the program. The 4-points help treat addiction by teaching tips and exercises to maintain lasting sobriety. The 4 points include:
- Building and maintaining motivation
- Coping with urges
- Managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
- Living a balanced life
SMART Recovery groups also have a different outlook on addiction and relapse. As part of the SMART teachings, participants are not labeled as “addicts” and addiction is not labeled as a “disease.” These terms are not in line with the empowering nature of the program. Also, recovery is not considered a lifelong process. Once you complete the program, you are able to “graduate” from recovery and start over, free from drugs and alcohol.
Why Rise in Malibu Incorporates SMART Recovery Into Our Treatment Program
Everyone who seeks help to overcome addiction needs support and care unique to their needs. While some people may benefit and find sobriety using traditional treatment models or 12-step programs, others may need different types of therapy options to overcome addiction. At Rise in Malibu we incorporate SMART Recovery into our treatment program to ensure everyone who is motivated to seek help in overcome addiction has access to a range of treatment models that will help them achieve their goals. Additionally, SMART Recovery is proven beneficial for people who struggle with co-occurring conditions including depression and anxiety.
If you or a loved one have tried a 12-step program and it was not for you, or you would like to learn more about SMART Recovery groups and how they can help you get sober, contact Rise Recovery in Malibu.
