12 Step Based Treatment Centers

The 12 Step recovery method is perhaps the most recognizable of all the approaches to addiction. 12 Step programs are out there for addiction to alcohol, substances of all sorts, and many behavioral addictions, such as gambling, sex and workaholism. 12 Step therapy is a spirituality based systemic method of getting into recovery.

Over 60 years old, this treatment approach sees addiction as arising from a deficit in a person’s relationship to their Higher Power. A Higher Power is not necessarily God, a god, or anything at all supernatural. A Higher Power is simply a force greater than one’s self that cares for and is interested in the individual.

The 12 Step approach to recovery was first created to address alcoholism, but narcotics treatment merged soon. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was the first 12 Step treatment. Narcotics Anonymous (NA) developed soon thereafter. The 12 Step program emphasizes a gradual progression in knowledge and skills resisting addictive impulses. It follows an ongoing “fellowship” model, under the belief that no one can get well on their own, and that isolation is a big trigger for addictive behaviors.

12 Step programs have no requirement for admission other than the desire to quit drinking or using. The very first step in the 12 steps is to admit one has an unmanageable life problem that they cannot control, and that they have no power over. For individuals who cannot accept that first, fundamental principle, another program might be more suitable.

As 12 Step programs are complete abstinence programs, detoxification is often required. Most inpatient facilities oriented to the 12 Step program model provide excellent 24/7 medical care in the form of doctors and nurses who closely monitor a client’s progression through detox. Many 12 Step programs do offer medication during the detox period to lessen the discomfort of the detox program