SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery (Self Management and Recovery Training) is an international non-profit organization which provides assistance to individuals seeking abstinence from addictive behaviors. The approach used is secular and science-based using non-confrontational motivational, behavioral and cognitive methods. Meeting participants learn recovery methods derived from evidence-based addiction treatments.

Methodology
SMART Recovery is based on scientific knowledge, and is intended to evolve as scientific knowledge evolves. The program uses principles of motivational interviewing found in Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), and techniques taken from Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), particularly in the version called Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), as well as scientifically validated research on treatment.

The organization's program emphasizes four areas (called the Four Points) in the process of recovery: Building Motivation, Coping with Urges, Problem Solving, and Lifestyle Balance. The "SMART Toolbox" is a collection of various MET, CBT and REBT methods (or "tools") which address the Four Points.

The program does not use the twelve steps which make up the basis of the various "Anonymous" self-help groups (e.g. AA, NA, etc.) and is generally listed as an "Alternative to AA" or an "Alternative to the Twelve Steps." Though listed as an "alternative", it is also suggested as a possible "supplement" to twelve-step programs in SMART Recovery's main program publication, The SMART Recovery Handbook.

The Stages of Change as a SMART Recovery Tool
In the SMART Recovery program, there are seven stages of change:
 * 1) Precontemplation - At this stage, the participant may not realize that they have a problem.
 * 2) Contemplation - The participant evaluates the advantages and disadvantages of the addiction by performing a cost/benefit analysis.
 * 3) Determination/Preparation - The participant completes a Change Plan Worksheet.
 * 4) Action - The participant seeks out new ways of handling their addiction behavior.  This can include self-help, the support of addiction help group or professional guidance.
 * 5) Maintenance - After a few months, the participant's behavior has been changed and now seeks to maintain their gains.
 * 6) Relapse - Although not inevitable, relapses are a normal part of the change cycle and if handled well, can serve a learning experience in overcoming an addiction.
 * 7) Termination - Once a participant has sustained a long period of change, they may choose to move on with their lives and "graduate" from SMART Recovery.

History and Organization
Incorporated in 1992 as the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Self-Help Network (ADASHN), the organization began operating under the SMART Recovery name in 1994.

General operations are overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors. Local groups are run by volunteers known as "Facilitators" with the assistance of volunteer recovery professionals called "Volunteer Advisors." A central office is currently maintained in Mentor, Ohio.

SMART Recovery offers its services are free although a donation is requested and its publications are sold.

Meetings
The meetings are free for all wishing to attend, and are intended to be informational as well as supportive. Approximately 600 weekly group meetings led by volunteer facilitators are held worldwide. In addition, the organization provides online resources and support to the volunteers and those attending the groups and one or more daily online meetings.

Meetings are also held in correctional facilities in many states including: Arizona, California, Florida, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Family and Friends
Concerned Significant Others (CSO) is an online support group for family and friends of SMART Recovery participants which started in September 2010. Its purpose is to address specific issues encountered when a family member or friend tries to reach out and help a loved one. It is similar to Al-Anon/Alateen.

Recognition
SMART is recognized by the American Academy of Family Physicians, as well as the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). NIDA and NIAAA are agencies of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.