Recovery pathways

Different paths. Shared possibility.

AA, NA, SMART Recovery, and professional care offer different kinds of support. Learn what each involves and find a place to begin.

Peer support and professional care can work together. Meeting formats and local house requirements vary.

01 · Shared experience. A continuing practice.

Alcoholics Anonymous

AA is a peer fellowship focused on recovery from alcohol problems, using the Twelve Steps and support from other members.

What to expect

  • Meetings where members share experience and support.
  • A program with spiritual principles; AA is not allied with a religious denomination.
  • Different formats and opportunities for sponsorship and service.

What the evidence says

A 2020 Cochrane review supports AA/Twelve-Step Facilitation for alcohol use disorder, with the strongest findings for structured facilitation and continuous abstinence. Individual fit and outcomes vary.

02 · A community for life without using.

Narcotics Anonymous

NA is a peer fellowship for people seeking recovery from drug addiction through meetings, the Twelve Steps, and shared experience.

What to expect

  • Membership based on a desire to stop using, with no dues or fees.
  • A spiritual recovery program with sponsorship and peer support.
  • Local and virtual meetings; check each listing for its intended audience.

What the evidence says

NA's official literature explains its approach. Research findings about AA for alcohol use disorder should not be presented as an equivalent effect estimate for NA.

03 · Practical skills. Self-directed change.

SMART Recovery

SMART is a secular mutual-support approach that uses tools informed by cognitive behavioral and rational emotive behavioral therapies.

What to expect

  • Building motivation and working with urges.
  • Exploring thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
  • Planning a balanced life through discussion and practical exercises.

What the evidence says

Recent observational research found beneficial involvement patterns across SMART and other mutual-aid groups. This is encouraging evidence with limits, rather than proof that all approaches have identical effects.

04 · Individual care, alongside community.

Professional care

Qualified professionals can help with treatment, mental health, withdrawal assessment, and medication decisions as part of a personal recovery plan.

What to expect

  • A conversation about your goals, health, and practical needs.
  • Treatment options suited to your situation.
  • Follow-up and coordination with other supports when appropriate.

What the evidence says

Medication and behavioral treatments have evidence for specific conditions. The right approach depends on clinical assessment; sober housing and peer support have different roles.

Finding your fit takes a little exploration.Try an introductory meeting, ask about its format, and notice whether you feel respected. This website explains available pathways; it does not imply New Roots is affiliated with AA, NA, or SMART Recovery. Review the home’s participation requirements with admissions.
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