Self-help Articles

by Arthur T. Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP

In the last two decades six alternative support groups for addictive behavior have emerged.
These groups are:

1. Women for Sobriety (WFS),
2. Rational Recovery Systems (RR),
3. Moderation Management (MM),
4. Men for Sobriety (MFS) (same as Women for Sobriety),
5. Secular Organizations for Sobriety/Save Our Selves (SOS), and
6. S.M.A.R.T. Recovery (SMART).

These six organizations are similar to AA in that they offer free groups (donations are requested) with the goal of helping members achieve abstinence (MM supports moderation). They are also quite different from AA. They neither encourage nor discourage belief in a higher power.

None (except WFS/MFS) emphasizes the idea that substance problems are diseases. They focus instead on these problems as complex maladaptive behaviors. They use a small group discussion format, not a series of monologues.

They do not use sponsors (a personal recovery coach you meet with between meetings). They do not encourage lifetime attendance.

Despite their similarities, there are also significant differences between these six groups. To mention just two: WFS is only for women with alcohol, or alcohol and other drug problems; SMART focuses on any addictive behavior.

If you've had concerns about your drinking or other drug use, there's something here for you. Congratulations on looking for a road to smart recovery! Search for your local chapter of any of these groups by using any of the large search engines.

About the Author:

Arthur T. Horvath, Ph.D., ABPP is on the Board of Directors of SMART Recovery and lent his knowledge in responding to this question.