In recent years, there has been a backlash against 12–step programs and a number of books have been published decrying the spiritual aspect of the 12-step programs, the word “God” used in the steps, and/or outlining what they consider the cult-like environment they feel they perceive in AA, Alanon or other 12-step programs.
However, as one privately operated teen treatment center’s website says, “Understanding that many people are reluctant to the idea of “God”, the twelve step program allows individuals to substitute their own concept of a “higher power” – which may range from classic religious figures to something as simple as the individual group meeting they attend. We go one step further and assist individuals in finding a higher power that they are comfortable with and adapting the 12 step method to fit their needs.”
Albert Ellis, the grandfather of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy – you decide how to feel about each life situation – a form of cognitive therapy, offers the book “When AA Does Not Work for You: Rational Steps to Quitting Alcohol.” Dr. Ellis was a traditional “listening therapist” for many years before developing REBT. Ironically, there are inpatient alcohol and drug cessations programs that combine the 12-steps with REBT.
However, for those who sincerely wish to avoid using a 12-step program, there are alcohol cessation programs that are based on other premises and methodologies.
Some programs you may want to look at that do not rely on a 12-step program or a spiritual basis include Save Our Selves (SOS), SMART Recovery, Life-ring Secular Recovery, Rational Recovery (RR), Pennsylvania Model of Recovery, YES Recovery, Women/Men for Sobriety, 16-Step Empowerment Model, Moderation Management, Sinclair Method, and Harm Reduction Therapy.
In her book, “AA: Not the Only Way--Your One Stop Resource Guide to 12-Step Alternatives,” author Melanie Solomon’s main point is that there are many alternatives to dealing with alcohol and substance abuse besides Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and its twelve steps yet the alternatives are not widely known. In her own experiences with substance abuse, she was not able to find help or support through AA although her father did use the program successfully.
The thesis of her book is that AA is not as effective for everyone as everyone might think and that other non 12-step programs have much more success. She eventually found a program that worked for her. In short, she advocates the attitude that just as each alcohol abuser is different, so are the successful treatments for that individual.
I can tell you that AA worked for me. What I was taught early on is that it a very personalized form of group therapy. That I needed to take out of it what worked for me and leave the rest behind. As far as a higher power goes, aside from God, I've witnessed everything from the group they belonged to the United States Marines. But like me, they were all able to stay sober one day at time thanks to AA.
Let me share with you something a minister recently said to me.
“Churches have an open door policy -- as do AA and NA meetings. That means that they attract – and accept the attendance – of all kinds of people. That also means that all members need to adhere to the old saying, “Caveat Emptor – Let the buyer beware.”
In AA or NA, although a sense of community seems to be there, it is always wise to remember you are among strangers, and to act on the premise that it takes time to really know another human being, wherever you meet them. Act in ways that will keep you safe.
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