Alternatives to AA: Other Options for Recovery

“AA,” as you’re surely aware, has been a household name for decades. Alcoholics Anonymous has helped millions of people worldwide stop drinking (or engage in other addictive habits) and pursue a life of sobriety. However, it isn’t the only approach to alcohol addiction recovery. 

Why do many people seek alternatives to AA? This program has deep, religious roots – more on that below. Some people find AA’s spiritual aspects beneficial, while others prefer secular or alternative programs. Or they simply prefer to try something else.

Keep reading to learn about popular alternatives for people seeking a different path to recovery from alcohol addiction.

What is Alcoholics Anonymous?

Alcoholics Anonymous, or AA for short, is a global fellowship for people who struggle with alcohol addiction. It was founded in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith in Akron, Ohio, and has since become one of the most widely recognized programs for those seeking to achieve and maintain sobriety.

The group has religious roots, and was affiliated with the Oxford Group (a Christian movement) when it was started. But although AA incorporates a spiritual element, not all program attendees belong to an organized religious group, and they are not required to. 

AA is known for its 12 Steps, which provide a framework for recovery. These steps guide members through acknowledging their powerlessness over alcohol, making amends, and practicing self-reflection and accountability. AA meetings meet regularly in person and online, allowing individuals to share their experiences, struggles, and successes with others who understand. Members also support each other in their efforts to stay sober.

Anonymity is an essential tradition in AA. It helps create a safe, nonjudgmental space for people to be open about their experiences and protects privacy. Participation is entirely voluntary, and there are no mandatory requirements or dues. AA encourages members to find a “sponsor” — a more experienced member who can provide guidance and support, particularly in working through the 12 Steps.

Alcoholics Anonymous has helped many people recover from alcohol dependency, but it’s not the only option. 

Are there alternatives to AA?

Despite its popularity and success for its members, the format of AA might not check the boxes for everyone. There are plenty of alternatives, whether you’re seeking a secular option or something with more like-minded peers. The availability of these options will depend on where you live – smaller and rural communities could have limited options, for example.

Each of these AA alternatives provides different approaches and philosophies, allowing for a more tailored approach to recovery:

SMART recovery

Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART) focuses on a science-based, self-empowered approach. This program teaches self-reliance, CBT techniques, and coping skills for dealing with cravings. Meetings are secular and include online options. Group meetings occur in person and online, and resources like workbooks are utilized.

LifeRing Secular Recovery

LifeRing promotes a secular, self-help approach to addiction recovery. This program emphasizes empowerment, and participants are encouraged to develop their own personalized “sober self” identity. LifeRing incorporates peer-led support groups focusing on individual needs, with no prescribed steps or higher power concepts.

Moderation Management 

Moderation Management (MM) focuses on people who want to reduce alcohol consumption rather than abstain entirely. While a controversial approach for people who believe total abstinence is the only option for alcohol addiction recovery, MM emphasizes moderation goals and personal responsibility. It’s designed for early-stage problem drinkers and offers a structured plan and online support groups.

MM is likely not appropriate for people who are at more severe stages of addiction.

Women for Sobriety 

Women for Sobriety (WFS) was explicitly created for women and promotes emotional and spiritual growth. This program helps participants build self-esteem, reduce guilt, and foster emotional growth through affirmations and positive thinking. The group meets in person and online forums for support and discussion. WFS also provides literature.

The Sinclair Method 

The Sinclair Method (TSM) is a medical-based approach using naltrexone, a medication that reduces the pleasure of drinking. This program involves taking naltrexone before drinking to reduce alcohol dependency gradually. To participate in a TSM program, a prescription from a medical provider is required. Online support groups are available.

Celebrate Recovery

Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step Christian program that integrates faith with recovery. It is similar to AA with a spiritual bent but focuses more on biblical teachings and healing through faith. Faith-based meetings are available in many churches.

people sitting on chair in front of table while holding pens during daytime
Photo by Dylan Gillis on Unsplash

Supplements to AA

If you’re attending AA (or an alternative program) but want additional recovery support, several options can help supplement AA meetings. These approaches offer extra tools, resources, and support to strengthen your journey.

Therapy and counseling

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing are common therapeutic approaches that can complement AA. Individual or family therapy can help address underlying issues, improve coping mechanisms, and develop personalized strategies for handling triggers.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)

Medication assisted treatment can help manage cravings and reduce the risk of relapse, especially in the early stages of recovery. MAT is utilized in rehab settings and as a stand-alone treatment. 

Medications typically used for MAT include: 

  • Naltrexone – reduces alcohol cravings
  • Acamprosate – supports abstinence
  • Disulfiram – produces sensitivity to alcohol

SMART recovery meetings

Also listed as an alternative to AA, SMART meetings can serve as a supplement offering a different, self-empowered perspective on sobriety. SMART’s science-based techniques, like cognitive-behavioral exercises and goal-setting, can complement AA’s spiritual and community-focused approach.

Mindfulness and meditation practices

Mindfulness practices, including deep breathing and meditation, are a powerful addition to AA groups. These practices can help manage stress, improve emotional regulation, and support mental clarity. Smartphone apps like Headspace or Insight Timer offer guided meditation options.

Exercise and physical activity

Physical activity boosts endorphins, which can reduce anxiety and improve mood. Walking, running, yoga, or weight training can serve as a healthy coping mechanism and structure for daily routines. Exercise can also be done in a group setting for accountability. 

Online support groups

Online communities, such as Reddit’s /r/stopdrinking or online versions of recovery groups, offer social support and connection beyond AA meetings.

These support groups and forums provide additional camaraderie and advice to help you stay accountable when you can’t attend an in-person meeting due to inclement weather or illness.

5 alcohol addiction support groups on Reddit list, to supplement AA

While not all online resources are appropriate for people dealing with alcoholism, seeking online resources can help build your support network when in-person support is limited or it seems like your family and friends can’t relate as much as someone else who has experienced similar issues.

Journaling and self-reflection

Daily journaling or responding to recovery and personal growth prompts can help you track progress and process emotions. Intentional self-reflection can also help you identify triggers for drinking. Self-reflection through writing can be especially helpful for managing stress and recognizing patterns.

Remote alcohol monitoring

A BACtrack View device can be a helpful tool for people working toward sobriety or aiming to moderate their alcohol consumption, especially in conjunction with support from AA meetings. 

Regularly using a breathalyzer can offer immediate feedback on sobriety progress, adding a level of self-accountability that can reinforce the commitment to staying sober. You can check your blood alcohol content (BAC) at any time to help build self-awareness about drinking patterns and how alcohol affects your body. 

Plus, if you have a sponsor in your AA group – or in any other group you join – you can add this person as an Accountability Partner. They can view your breathalyzer test results and hold you accountable to your sobriety goals.

While portable breathalyzers cannot replace the community aspect of AA or other recovery group meetings, they can be powerful supplementary tools, empowering users to make healthier choices and stay on track.

About The Author

Rychel Johnson
Rychel Johnson
M.S., LCPC
Rychel Johnson, M.S., LCPC, is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Lawrence, Kansas. She owns a solo private p... Read More
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