Alternatives to AA

If you are exploring alternatives to AA, you deserve room to find support that fits your needs and beliefs. Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-step programs have helped many people. Trying another kind of peer support does not require you to dismiss those experiences or leave support that is helping you.

Where CONNECTED Recovery fits

CONNECTED Addiction Recovery offers volunteer-facilitated peer education and mutual support. Our nine-process approach combines reflection, accountability, connection, and practical tools informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Choice Theory. We are independent of and not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by AA or SMART Recovery.

There is no required belief system, and sharing is always voluntary. You may listen, reflect privately, and explore what a workable next step looks like for you. Our approach is not a claim that one program works for everyone or that connection alone cures addiction.

Questions to ask when choosing a group

Consider the meeting format, beliefs or practices expected of participants, how facilitators describe their role, privacy expectations, accessibility, and whether you feel respected. Ask how the group supports people who also receive professional care. A peer group should be clear about the limits of what it offers.

Different mutual-support options include 12-step and secular approaches. For a neutral starting point, the NIAAA guide to long-term recovery support describes several options. Check each organization’s current information when deciding what fits. Inclusion here is not an endorsement or a claim of affiliation.

Try a CONNECTED meeting or exercise

Our online meetings take place Tuesdays at 8 PM Eastern. Visit the meeting section for current Zoom joining details. You can also explore the nine processes, download free recovery worksheets, or read about connection in recovery before attending.

Peer support and professional care

CONNECTED does not provide professional treatment, diagnosis, therapy, medical advice, detoxification, or crisis care. Peer support may be used alongside qualified care. Seek professional help for withdrawal or other medical concerns; do not rely on a peer meeting to assess or manage them. For information on finding alcohol treatment, see the NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator.