Anyone considering group therapy will want to know what it has to offer and how it can enhance addiction recovery. However, it is not unusual to feel anxious about engaging with a group. Trepidation, or even fear, can be viewed as the "normal" response to participating in an activity with the potential for us to feel exposed within a group of strangers. It may be tempting to dismiss the group as merely a talking shop for other people's distress, and while it may be reasonable to be skeptical, it is worth thinking about what group therapy has to offer the recovering person.
The 12-step program is not a therapeutic approach in and of itself, but instead was designed as a peer-support system that promotes abstinence from harmful substances and behaviours. The traditional model states that it is run "by addicts, for addicts", however in modern times many rehabilitation-centres integrate the 12-step programme into their treatment under what is commonly referred to as the "Minnesota Model".
This digression from the traditional tenants of the 12 steps allows for the participation of medical and clinical professionals in addiction treatment, as opposed to strictly utilising the system of peer-run meetings and the sponsor system found in alcoholics anonymous and narcotics anonymous.
The 12-step recovery model is named, appropriately, after the 12-steps that addicts 'must' take to overcome addiction and achieve sobriety. These steps are:
The result of these steps is a profound transformation in how individuals approach their recovery. Through working the programme, members learn to practice these principles in all aspects of their lives, not just in relation to their addiction.
Members use only their first names, and there is no record of who attends fellowship meetings. This provides a safe environment, where members can be confident that who they are and what they may reveal remains confidential. It can also help to reduce the stigma and feelings of shame associated with suffering from addiction.
Another important aspect of anonymity is the idea that irrespective of status or position in the world, in the fellowship, everyone is equal. Whether you come from the highest echelons of society or from the lowest of positions, everyone has an equal right to be there and an equal responsibility to participate and contribute to the process.
The idea of abstinence from all addictive activity is central to the 12-step programme approach. It is based on the experience of addicted people finding themselves unable to control their use of substances or behaviours; often when attempts to try "controlled use" following a period of abstinence lead to relapse.
For those who have lost control, abstinence is probably the only viable option. In 12-step recovery, addiction is not seen as "cured" or "removed" but an ever-present risk. Relapse is a very real threat for those suffering from addiction without a strategy for sustaining recovery.
The fellowships have devised a system of individual support and guidance through sponsorship. This involves an established member with a significant period of recovery making themselves available as a resource to newer members outside of formal meetings. This will involve helping them with day-to-day problems and to guide them through the individual steps of the program.
Sponsors help newcomers understand how to make direct amends to such people, guide them on when it's appropriate to make amends to such people wherever possible, and support them in developing their meditation to improve our conscious contact with their higher power.
While alcoholics anonymous (AA) was the original 12-step program, many variations have emerged to address different forms of addiction. Narcotics anonymous follows the same principles but focuses on drug addiction. Other types of 12-step programmes include:
Each adaptation maintains the core 12 traditions while addressing specific addiction challenges.
The 12-step programme help provides structure and community support essential for addiction recovery. Through regular meetings, sponsorship, and working the steps, individuals find:
Many members report experiencing a spiritual awakening as the result of working through the programme. This awakening often involves a fundamental shift in perspective, allowing individuals to find new meaning and purpose in their lives beyond addiction.
At modern rehabilitation centres, the 12 step programme is often integrated with professional addiction treatment approaches. This combination provides:
Steps 8 and 9 focus on making amends. The programme teaches members to be willing to make amends to those they've harmed, making amends to such people wherever it's possible and safe to do so. This process of reconciliation is crucial for healing relationships and moving forward in recovery.
The 12-step programme offers a time-tested path to addiction recovery, combining peer support, spiritual growth, and practical tools for maintaining sobriety. Whether through alcoholics anonymous, narcotics anonymous, or other fellowships, the programme provides structure and hope for those seeking freedom from addiction.
At Clinic Les Alpes, we integrate the 12 step programme with cutting-edge addiction treatment to provide comprehensive care. By learning to practice these principles in all our affairs, individuals can achieve lasting recovery and help carry this message to others still suffering.
Ready to begin your recovery journey? Contact us today to learn how our 12-step programme can support your path to lasting sobriety.
