Get SMART!
Most of us know recovery as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA, NA, GA, SA, etc. etc.) with it’s iconic 12-step program. Some of us know recovery as Refuge Recovery, using Buddhist principles and guided meditation. But few of us know about SMART Recovery, or “Self-Management And Recovery Training.”
SMART Recovery started in 1994 as a response to individuals not associating with or not being successful with the traditional AA or NA recovery meetings.
SMART Recovery views addiction as a behavioral problem that can be changed and resolved without judgement, blame or shame. SMART Recovery is based on Science and accepts Medical Assisted Treatment as an integral part of recovery therapy. It depends on the participant taking complete ownership of the addictive behavior and in-so-doing, believes the participant can heal from the disorder. And like AA, SMART Recovery depends on meetings and interactions with others to help empower individuals. Participants accept the idea that they CAN have control over their addiction.
Smart Recovery depends on a 4-Point program that serves as a guide to recovery. Participants are expected and encouraged to:
1. Build and maintain the motivation to change.
2. Cope with urges to use.
3. Manage thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in an effective way without addictive behaviors.
4. Live a balanced, positive, and healthy life.
Smart Recovery offers a variety meeting options, such as daily online meetings, zoom video conferencing, 24/7 chat rooms, online message boards, blogs, and more. SMART Recovery does not use labels such as “addict” or “alcoholic,” and encourages participation only for as long as it is perceived to be useful. All individuals involved remain truly anonymous and group meetings are led by a strong facilitator.
Water Gap Wellness is a Drug & Alcohol and Mental Health Rehabilitation center that offers SMART Recovery as a support and treatment option. Our treatment programs are licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services and the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs of Pennsylvania, and are led by our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Robert Morrow who is on site daily. Dr. Morrow is a pioneer and expert in the treatment of mental health and alcohol and substance-related addictions.
Our programs are comprehensive and offer housing and three meals daily at the beautiful Water Gap Wellness Inn. The Inn is located in beautiful Delaware Water Gap on 130+ acres of manicured property and adjacent to the Appalachian Trail and Delaware River. In addition to our on-site Psychiatrist and amazing outdoor amenities, our expert program offers 2 private counseling sessions weekly, 3 group sessions daily and experiential therapy daily with a NOLs-certified guide.
If you or someone you know is suffering from an addictive disorder, please give us a call. We are here to help. 1-833-WGW-HOPE.
Most insurance accepted.
written by Annette Kaiser, Water Gap Wellness
