Medication Assisted Recovery Anonymous
Summary
Many people who use prescribed medication to manage drug and alcohol use feel excluded or unwelcome at traditional twelve-step recovery meetings. Medication-Assisted Recovery Anonymous (MARA) is a peer-led support group that provides a non-judgmental space for individuals utilizing medication-assisted treatment as part of their recovery. Here, members can share their experiences, challenges, and successes with medications like Methadone, Buprenorphine, or Naltrexone. MARA fosters community, mutual aid, and empowerment, ensuring that everyone on this healing path has a place of support and understanding.
Website
Addictions Treated
Alcohol and Drugs
Orientation
Secular
Overview
Medication-Assisted Recovery Anonymous was founded by Jeff Kamen, who also serves as its Executive Director. Kamen established MARA to create a supportive, nonjudgmental community for individuals utilizing medication-assisted treatment (MAT) in their recovery journey. He has also authored a book titled Medication-Assisted Recovery Anonymous, that guides readers through the program’s steps and traditions.
MARA was created in response to the growing need for a recovery support group that fully embraces Medication-Assisted Treatment. Traditional recovery groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, take a staunchly abstinence-focused approach to recovery, which has led many individuals using MAT to feel excluded or stigmatized. MARA was developed to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment for individuals utilizing evidence-based medical treatments, such as Methadone, Buprenorphine (Suboxone), and Naltrexone, as part of their recovery journey.
Core Text
Medication-Assisted Recovery Anonymous by Jeff Kamen
Principles, Strategies, and Tools
The Twelve Steps
MARA’s twelve steps are based on the original AA twelve steps except all references to God have been removed and replaced with the concept of “responsible others.”
Acceptance of MAT as a Valid Recovery Path
MARA recognizes that medications like Methadone, Buprenorphine, and Naltrexone are effective tools for recovery and should not be a source of stigma.
Non-judgment & Inclusivity
All individuals in recovery, regardless of the method they choose, are welcome and respected.
Peer Support Meetings
Regular meetings (in-person and virtual) enable members share experiences, challenges, and successes while building connections within a supportive community.
Self-Determination & Empowerment
MARA encourages individuals to take ownership of their recovery journey and make informed choices about their treatment.
Harm Reduction & Evidence-Based Recovery
MARA embraces harm reduction principles and supports recovery approaches backed by medical science.