What is 12-Step Therapy?

People around the world have used the 12 steps. Experts in 12-step therapy have recognized the usefulness of this option as part of substance abuse treatment. In addition, treatment providers can use it as an additional support in helping individuals that want to overcome their addiction. Unfortunately, there are some myths and misunderstandings about 12-step programs. To get clarification about the efficacy of this treatment, please contact Addiction Rehab Centers today at 844.910.0686.

What Is 12 Step Therapy?

The 12-step facilitation therapy focuses on an active engagement approach that increases the likelihood that someone will stay in recovery. The community-based resource provides additional emotional and social support that may supplement substance abuse treatment. Although many people likely associate 12-step groups with treatment, it is not a treatment for alcohol addiction or other drug addictions. The structure of 12-step programs offers people attending the groups anonymity and peer support. Sometimes, people involved in 12-step groups and addiction treatment programs have never been around other people actively engaged people in recovery.

What Are the Key Ideas of 12-Step Therapy?

Sources may differ somewhat in their description of 12-step therapy, but three main ideas are dominant in the groups. The first key idea is that of acceptance or acknowledging that addiction is a progressive disease over which an individual has no control. It also acknowledges that life has become unmanageable because of substance abuse and that willpower alone is not enough to overcome the addiction issues. Additionally, it promotes that abstinence is the only alternative.

The second critical approach is that of surrender. This approach encourages the individual to surrender control to their higher power. This approach also encourages participants to accept the supportive structure and fellowship of other individuals in recovery.

The third key idea is that of engaging in active involvement in 12-step meetings and related 12-step activities.

Additional 12 Step Therapy Ideas and Approaches

There are additional steps taught in 12-step recovery that individuals learn in the program. Honesty is key for both the individual in recovery and family members or friends of the individual with addiction issues. Admitting to those around them that the participant does have an addiction can be challenging, but choosing to do is liberating.

Additional 12-steps include:

Soul searching
Integrity
Humility
Willingness
Forgiveness
Maintenance

Additional steps involve making contact and committing to service.

Although these steps are not considered treatment, several sources indicate that even after decades of use in supporting individuals in recovery, the 12-steps are still relevant today.

Supplementing Addiction Treatment with 12-Step Therapy

Many addiction treatment centers require that their clients or patients participate in 12-step therapy while in the treatment program. Some programs have in-house 12-step therapy meetings, while others need individuals in treatment to attend outside meetings.

At Addiction Rehab Centers, we teach the first two or three steps. However, we often do not focus on them solely because participating in a 12 Step program is free outside of treatment. The support our clients receive in 12-step programs is often positive support that may not be available elsewhere.

In addition to 12-step therapy, Addiction Rehab Centers offers the SMART Recovery non-profit support program for individuals in recovery. This treatment is a scientific-based program that also helps to diagnose and treat any underlying mental health disorders.

Learn More About Addiction Rehab Centers Today

We understand the devastating effects that addiction has on the health, well-being, and lives of individuals and their families. However, with 12-step therapy, we can provide support for a range of conditions, including: