SMART Recovery

SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) is an international nonprofit organization. It provides free mutual-aid recovery groups for people having problems with any substance or behavior, including alcoholism, drug abuse/addiction, substance abuse/addiction, gambling addiction, and addiction to other behaviors. SMART Recovery uses a self-empowering, science-based approach to recovery based on the Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) of Albert Ellis, Ph.D. Headquartered in Mentor, Ohio, SMART Recovery has more than 500 face-to-face meetings and over 16 online meetings available weekly, some of which are in correctional settings. Its Website provides many resources for people dealing with addictions, including message boards, chat rooms, and a large number of reading materials and tools for implementing their recovery program.

SMART Recovery uses a Four-Point Program to empower individuals, teaching them self-reliance and helping them to gain freedom from their addictive behaviors through a self-directed program of recovery. Participants in SMART Recovery groups are taught how to enhance and maintain their motivation to abstain from their addictive behaviors; how to cope with any addictive urges they may have; how to problem solve and rationally manage their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; and how to develop a rational lifestyle that balances short-term satisfactions with those that are long-term and enduring.

SMART Recovery considers addictions or compulsions to be maladaptive behaviors, psychological disorders rather than physical diseases, though these disorders may include physiological factors. The program is not spiritual and participants do not identify themselves as addicts or alcoholics. People attending group meetings are referred to as participants rather than members and they are not expected to spend a lifetime attending the groups, instead staying only as long as they need to be there. SMART Recovery group leaders are volunteers trained in REBT and the SMART Recovery approach to dealing with addictive behaviors. Group leaders may be laypeople or professionals in the field of addiction counseling.