Recovery is a personal journey. A journey that requires one to be honest about his or her emotions and trauma that led to those emotions. Trauma can come from how a spiritual leader intentionally or unintentionally abused the addict. Once a person is dealing with trauma from a spiritual leader, it’s difficult to choose a recovery path that includes spirituality. So some people prefer non 12-step rehab programs.
The Misconception that Twelve-Step Programs Require Conforming to Spiritual Beliefs
Some people have experiences with 12-Step Programs where members have forced their spiritual beliefs on others. While this has happened, it’s not the intention of the program for members to do this. Each member is encouraged to direct their attention to a Power greater than himself or herself, however that member defines that Power. The companion book to AA’s Big Book, 12 Steps and 12 Traditions, makes this clear in the very beginning of the book.
But people are fallible and demand others resort to their beliefs. When this happens, those who may be helped by the program turn away from it due to the efforts of individuals, not the program. A non 12-step rehab program understands the pain these people have experienced by individuals in the program. Instead of focusing on spiritual aspects of addiction, a non 12-Step rehab program will focus on the behavioral aspects of addiction.
Non 12-Step Rehab Programs Focus on Behavior Therapy
Treatment centers that offer non 12-Step rehab programs focus on behavior therapy. Counselors will work with recovering addicts to find the underlying cause of addiction and people or events that trigger substance abuse. Once these causes are found counselors will help change attitudes and behaviors around substance abuse.
After a shift is made in awareness around substance abuse, the counselor will help the addict make life-changes to promote healthy living. This may include modifying eating habits, exercise, and relaxation techniques.
Types of Behavioral Therapy in Non 12-Step Rehab Programs
While in treatment, a recovering addict can choose the best therapy types for personal recovery. Effective therapies include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy: This therapy focuses on recognizing and coping with stressful situations that cause substance abuse.
- Family Therapy: Family therapy finds problems in the family dynamic and helps to repair damage caused by substance abuse.
- Motivational Interviewing: This is an interview process to decide the readiness of an addict to receive treatment.
- Motivational Incentives: Motivational incentives is a reward system designed to encourage abstinence from substance abuse.
Choosing a Non 12-Step Rehab Program
Regardless of which program you feel is right for you, both 12-Step and non 12-Step rehab programs offer insights into addiction behaviors that can lead to sobriety when the program is followed. Sobriety requires a commitment to yourself and to living a life free of substance abuse.
Ready to Make a Commitment to Yourself?
If you are ready to make a commitment to yourself and are looking for either a 12-Step or non-12-Step program, call Aion Recovery at 888-811-2879. We can help you find the best program for your needs.
Recent comments