SMART Recovery

What Is SMART Recovery?

SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) is a self-help support program that helps people build a life outside of addiction. It focuses on practical skills, personal responsibility, and evidence-based techniques drawn from approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

SMART Recovery meetings are led by trained facilitators and are available both online and in person. The program is designed to support recovery from substance use as well as behavioral addictions.

Who Is SMART Recovery For?

SMART Recovery is designed for anyone struggling with substance use or behavioral addictions, including alcohol, drugs, gambling, and more.

It may be especially helpful for people who prefer a non-spiritual, self-empowering approach to recovery or want to use practical, evidence-based tools to manage their behavior.

How Does SMART Recovery Differ from 12-Step Programs?

SMART Recovery was developed as an alternative to traditional 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous.

While both programs offer peer support, SMART Recovery uses evidence-based tools through its 4-Point Program; 12-step programs follow the Twelve Steps and emphasize spiritual growth and reliance on a higher power.

SMART Recovery focuses on self-reliance and skill-building, helping participants change behaviors and manage cravings. In contrast, 12-step programs emphasize acceptance of powerlessness over addiction and surrender to a higher power.

Both approaches can be effective, and some people choose to explore both to find what works best for them. If you aren’t sure which one is right for you, there’s no harm in attending meetings from both programs until you decide.

SMART Recovery 4-Point Program

SMART Recovery is built around a 4-Point Program that helps individuals develop practical skills for long-term recovery:

1. Building and maintaining motivation: Strengthening commitment to change and staying focused on recovery goals
2. Coping with urges and cravings: Learning strategies to manage triggers and reduce the risk of relapse
3. Managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors: Identifying and changing unhelpful thinking patterns
4. Living a balanced life: Creating healthier habits and routines that support long-term well-being

What Are Some of the SMART Recovery Tools?

SMART Recovery uses a variety of tools to help participants change behaviors and maintain recovery.

Common tools include:

• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Weighing the pros and cons of behaviors
• Change Plan Worksheet: Setting goals and tracking progress
• DISARM: Identifying and challenging urges
• ABCs of Coping: Managing thoughts and emotional responses

SMART Recovery offers many additional tools and worksheets through its online Toolbox.

SMART Recovery Meetings

SMART Recovery meetings are free, widely available, and open to anyone seeking support.

SMART Recovery does not focus on any specific type of substance use disorder. Instead, SMART Recovery meetings are helpful for people in recovery from any substance abuse or addiction (including behavioral addictions, eating disorders, and other problematic behaviors).

What to Expect at a SMART Recovery Meeting

SMART Recovery meetings typically last 60 to 90 minutes and are structured, discussion-based sessions led by a trained facilitator. They are available in person and online.

The meeting facilitator opens the session by reading the Group Welcome. This is followed by check-ins, during which participants can discuss challenges or successes since the last meeting.

Once everyone who wishes to has shared, the facilitator will guide the group in a discussion.

When the support meeting ends, the facilitator wraps up the session. Before everyone departs, a collection basket is sometimes passed around for optional donations.

How to Find a SMART Recovery Meeting Near You

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse and could benefit from attending a SMART Recovery meeting in your area, their meeting finder page lists local and online meetings.

There’s even a SMART Recovery mobile app with information and resources to help you throughout your recovery journey.

Written by

Jessica Miller

Editorial Director

Jessica Miller is the Editorial Director of Addiction Help. Jessica graduated from the University of South Florida (USF) with an English degree and combines her writing expertise and passion for helping others to deliver reliable information to those impacted by addiction. Informed by her personal journey to recovery and support of loved ones in sobriety, Jessica's empathetic and authentic approach resonates deeply with the Addiction Help community.

Reviewed by

• Fact-Checked
• Editor

Kent S. Hoffman, D.O.

Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer

Kent S. Hoffman, D.O. has been an expert in addiction medicine for more than 15 years. In addition to managing a successful family medical practice, Dr. Hoffman is board certified in addiction medicine by the American Osteopathic Academy of Addiction Medicine (AOAAM). Dr. Hoffman has successfully treated hundreds of patients battling addiction. Dr. Hoffman is the Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer of AddictionHelp.com and ensures the website’s medical content and messaging quality.