SMART Recovery Treatment Programs

SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) is a science-based mutual support program founded in 1994 as an alternative to 12-step programs. Using cognitive-behavioral and motivational approaches, SMART empowers individuals with practical tools and techniques for overcoming addiction. Meetings are free, available worldwide both in-person and online, and address all types of addictions.

The SMART 4-Point Program

SMART Recovery focuses on four essential points:

• Point 1: Building Motivation: Identifying reasons for change, exploring costs and benefits, setting goals, strengthening commitment
• Point 2: Coping with Urges: Managing cravings using techniques like urge surfing, distraction, delay, and challenging irrational beliefs
• Point 3: Managing Thoughts, Feelings, Behaviors: Using Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) to challenge irrational beliefs and develop rational thinking
• Point 4: Living a Balanced Life: Creating healthy, values-based lifestyle supporting recovery without extreme deprivation or indulgence

SMART Tools and Techniques

SMART teaches specific, practical tools including Cost-Benefit Analysis for decision-making, ABC tool (Activating event, Beliefs, Consequences) for understanding emotional and behavioral responses, DISARM (Destructive Images and Self-talk Awareness and Refusal Method) for managing urges, and Hierarchy of Values for making decisions aligned with what matters most. These evidence-based techniques come from cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Key Differences from 12-Step Programs

SMART emphasizes self-empowerment rather than powerlessness, uses science-based rather than spiritual approaches, doesn't require labels or lifetime attendance, addresses all addictions together rather than separately, employs facilitators rather than sponsors, and supports various recovery goals including abstinence or moderation (though abstinence is generally recommended for substance addiction). Some people benefit from both SMART and 12-step approaches.

Accessibility and Format

SMART meetings are available in-person globally and online 24/7, making support accessible regardless of location or schedule. Online meetings are particularly valuable for those in rural areas, with mobility limitations, or preferring anonymity. Meetings typically last 90 minutes, are facilitated by trained volunteers, and focus on teaching tools and applying them to participant concerns through collaborative problem-solving.

SMART Recovery resources:

• SMART Recovery Official Website
• SMART Recovery Online Community