smart recovery

SMART Recovery is a science and evidence-based program offering support for overcoming addiction and compulsive behaviors, whether involving alcohol, drugs, or other issues. SMART Recovery is secular and non-theistic, focusing on evidence-based practices rather than spiritual or religious principles. It emphasizes building motivation, self-empowerment, controlling urges, and managing thoughts related to addiction. 

www.smartrecovery.org  

All Substances and Behaviors   

Secular

SMART Recovery was founded in 1994 by Dr. Joseph Gerstein with the goal of providing an alternative to traditional twelve-step programs. It was developed by a group of addiction specialists, mental health professionals, and individuals in recovery who wanted a science-based, secular approach to addiction recovery. 

Initially called the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Self-Help Network (ADASHN), the organization changed its name to SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) to better reflect its focus on empowering individuals to manage their own recovery process.

SMART was created for people seeking a self-empowering way to overcome addictive problems. What has emerged is an accessible method of recovery, one grounded in science and proven by more than a quarter-century of experience teaching practical tools that encourage lasting change. It emphasizes self-reliance and practical strategies for recovery.

SMART Recovery has expanded from 42 initial group meetings to over 2,000 in North America and is now active in 23 countries worldwide.

SMART Recovery Handbook by Rosemary Hardin, Dr. William Abbott, et al.   

SMART Recovery’s 4-Point Program is a secular framework designed to address both substance and activity/process addictions. It is led by trained volunteer facilitators and focuses on:

• Building and maintaining motivation
• Coping with urges and cravings
• Managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
• Living a balanced life

• Self-Management: Individuals are empowered to manage their own behaviors.
• Mutual Support: Connecting with and learning from peers is highly valuable.
• Choice: Participants select their own goals, skills, and tools.
• Evidence-Led: Programs are based on scientific evidence and are subject to ongoing evaluation.
• Person-Centered: People with lived experience guide the program’s development and approach.

Identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

• Identifying Triggers: Participants learn to recognize situations or thoughts that lead to addictive behaviors.
• Challenging Negative Thoughts: Techniques are used to question and reframe negative or irrational thoughts that contribute to substance use.
• Developing Coping Strategies: Practical strategies are developed to handle stress and cravings, such as mindfulness and relaxation techniques.

Addressing irrational beliefs and replacing them with rational alternatives.

Increasing motivation to change by examining the costs and benefits of choices.

Developing coping skills and self-management strategies. There are a total of 14 tools currently:

• ABC Exercise
• Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA)
• Create a Change Plan
• Define Your Values (Hierarchy of Values)
• Dispute Unhelpful Beliefs
• Explore New Pursuits and Passions
• Five Questions
• Goal Setting
• Lifestyle Balance Wheel
• Personify and Disarm
• Practice Self-compassion
• Put DENTS in Your Urges
• Setting Healthy Boundaries
• Urge Log

Unlike some other recovery programs, SMART does not use a step-based system or require sponsors.

Members can use psychiatric medications and seek psychotherapy if deemed helpful by healthcare professionals.

While the program promotes abstinence, attendance is open to individuals at any stage of change, and sobriety is not required to join.

Labeling oneself or others as addicts is discouraged. Addiction is viewed as a changeable behavior, not a personal trait or permanent disease.

In-person and online: https://meetings.smartrecovery.org/meetings/