About Our Approach
Learn about SMART Recovery principles, our unique meeting approach, and the evidence-based strategies we use for addiction recovery.
Our Meeting Philosophy
Our weekly meetings follow a unique approach that emphasizes practical progress, real vulnerability, and authentic community connection.
We focus on the recent past and near future rather than life story analysis, encouraging participants to share authentically while building genuine connections with others on similar journeys.
The approach is secular, evidence-based, and empowering - helping people develop self-management skills rather than relying on external control.
"Focus on the change you want to make rather than labels or diagnoses."
"We try to keep focus on the recent past so we can focus on the near future and make steady progress."
"The more you try to contribute and be vulnerable in this meeting and elsewhere, the more likely you are to be successful."
"Side conversations are really good for everyone to kind of have an opportunity to get engaged and build connections."
Four-Part Meeting Structure
Participants share what brings them to the meeting and how their past week has been for their mental health and recovery.
- Focus on recent experiences
- Share current challenges
- Identify patterns
The group explores recovery topics that emerge from check-ins, with open dialogue and shared experiences.
- Organic conversation flow
- Shared problem-solving
- Evidence-based approaches
Participants engage in guided activities, reflections, or cognitive tools designed to build practical skills.
- Skill-building focus
- Practical application
- Group participation
Closing reflections and takeaways, with opportunities to connect further through the community.
- Key insights gained
- Next steps planning
- Community connection
Key Quotes & Principles
"The more you try to contribute and be vulnerable in this meeting and elsewhere, the more likely you are to be successful."
"Side conversations are really good for everyone to kind of have an opportunity to get engaged and build connections."
"Focus on the change you want to make rather than labels or diagnoses."
"We try to keep focus on the recent past so we can focus on the near future and make steady progress."
Exercise Approach
These exercises ask you to DO something, not just think about it. Send texts, make calls, write lists. Real action creates real change.
Many exercises involve reaching out to others. Recovery works better with real human connection, not just solo reflection.
From guided exercises to drag-and-drop activities and interactive games, we use varied formats to keep you engaged and learning.
Exercise Formats
Guided Exercises
Step-by-step instructions with writing prompts and reflection questions.
Interactive Tools
Dynamic exercises like ABC Analysis with real-time input and feedback.
Drag & Drop
Visual exercises where you categorize and organize thoughts and behaviors.
Challenge Games
Gamified exercises that make learning recovery skills engaging and memorable.
Getting the Most from Exercises
Actually do them. These exercises only work if you take real action, not just think about taking action.
Try the random exercise. Sometimes the best exercise is the one you wouldn't have chosen yourself.
Experiment with different formats. Some people learn better through writing, others through interactive activities.
Focus on steady progress. You don't need to be perfect or do everything at once.