At Recovery HQ, we recognize that recovery is a deeply personal journey—and that one path does not work for everyone. While 12-step programs have helped millions of people find and maintain sobriety, others may seek alternative approaches, including treatment centers, that align more closely with their beliefs, values, or therapeutic preferences. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to non–12-step recovery programs, each offering its own philosophy, meeting structure, and pathway to healing.

Whether you're new to recovery or looking to supplement your existing support system, these secular, spiritual, therapeutic, and peer-led programs provide proven alternatives to traditional 12-step groups.

SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training)

SMART Recovery is a science-based program that empowers individuals to overcome addiction and compulsive behaviors using evidence-based techniques rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT).

Core Features:

• 4-Point Program: (1) Building motivation, (2) Coping with urges, (3) Managing thoughts/feelings/behaviors, (4) Living a balanced life
• Secular and self-empowering
• Facilitated by trained volunteers or professionals
• Addresses a wide range of addictive behaviors, including substance use, gambling, eating disorders, and more

Meeting Options: In-person and online meetings available globally. Meetings are discussion-based and interactive.

Learn More: smartrecovery.org

Refuge Recovery

Refuge Recovery is a mindfulness-based recovery community grounded in Buddhist principles. It uses meditation, self-inquiry, compassion, and ethical living as tools to overcome addiction and emotional suffering.

Core Features:

• Inspired by the Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path of Buddhism
• Emphasizes mindfulness meditation, community support, and personal responsibility
• No requirement to believe in a Higher Power
• Inclusive of all addiction types

Meeting Options: Peer-led meetings offered both in-person and online. Each meeting typically includes meditation, readings, and group discussion.

Learn More: refugerecovery.org

Celebrate Recovery

Celebrate Recovery is a Christian-centered 12-step alternative that addresses a wide range of struggles including alcohol and drug addiction, trauma, anger, codependency, and more. Rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, it integrates scripture with recovery principles.

Core Features:

• Christ-centered recovery based on biblical principles
• Includes worship, teaching, and gender-specific small group sharing
• Welcomes anyone struggling with hurts, habits, or hang-ups

Meeting Options: Typically hosted at churches with a combination of large group worship and small group sessions. Step studies and social events are also common.

Learn More: celebraterecovery.com

LifeRing Secular Recovery

LifeRing is a peer-led, secular recovery program that focuses on empowering individuals to build a sober life through their own inner strength, or "Sober Self."

Core Features:

• No steps, sponsors, or religious content
• Emphasizes self-empowerment and practical recovery strategies
• Encourages respectful, topic-based discussion
• Peer-led and democratic

Meeting Options: In-person and online meetings with flexible, interactive formats. Meeting styles vary by group.

Learn More: lifering.org

Women for Sobriety (WFS)

Women for Sobriety is a recovery program designed specifically for women. It emphasizes self-worth, emotional growth, and spiritual well-being using 13 affirmations to guide recovery.

Core Features:

• Women-only meetings
• Focus on empowerment, emotional regulation, and positivity
• Includes journaling, affirmations, and group discussion
• Encourages self-responsibility and holistic healing

Meeting Options: Both in-person and online meetings available. Daily online chats and support forums are also offered.

Learn More: womenforsobriety.org

Moderation Management (MM)

Moderation Management is a behavioral change program for individuals who want to reduce their drinking and make more mindful choices around alcohol. Unlike abstinence-only programs, MM supports moderation and controlled use for those who are not physically dependent on alcohol.

Core Features:

• Goal-setting and self-monitoring tools
• Community support for behavior change
• Encourages self-responsibility and balance

Meeting Options: Offers both in-person and online meetings, along with private forums and tracking tools.

Learn More: moderation.org

Choosing the Right Program for You

Each of these programs offers unique tools and perspectives. Some people find success with a single approach, while others blend several programs to build a support system that fits their lifestyle and beliefs. If you’re unsure which program is right for you, consider asking yourself:

• Do I prefer a secular or spiritual approach?
• Do I value structure or flexibility in meetings?
• Am I comfortable in mixed-gender groups, or do I prefer women-only spaces?
• Do I want to pursue abstinence or moderation?

Recovery HQ is here to support you every step of the way. We believe in meeting people where they are—and connecting them to the resources that meet their individual needs.

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You don’t have to recover alone. Whether you're drawn to mindfulness, science, faith, or community-based healing, there's a recovery path that’s right for you—and we’ll help you find it.