Build & maintain motivation
Connecting with your personal reasons for wanting to change, and revisiting them often.
Self-empowerment, practical tools, real change.
While many people find comfort and structure in 12-step programs, others connect more with an approach grounded in self-reliance and practical skills. SMART Recovery — Self-Management and Recovery Training — is a science-based path that fosters self-empowerment and offers actionable tools for change, integrated alongside expert counseling, medical support, and aftercare planning.
Guiding principles
Four tenets that cultivate empowerment.
Self-empowerment
You are the one who knows your life best and makes the ultimate decisions about your recovery.
Practical skills
Meetings are structured like workshops — learning and practicing tools you can apply immediately.
Evidence-based methods
The program's tools are derived from therapeutic techniques backed by scientific research.
Inclusive community
Everyone struggling with any form of addictive behavior is welcomed with respect and without judgment.
How SMART Recovery works
The 4-Point Program®.
Cope with urges & cravings
Actionable strategies like urge surfing, healthy distractions, and thought interruption.
Manage thoughts, feelings & behaviors
Drawing from CBT to identify, challenge, and reframe negative thought patterns.
Live a balanced life
Rediscovering hobbies, repairing relationships, and setting goals beyond abstinence.
The evidence base
Grounded in researched therapeutic approaches.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Helps identify and modify the harmful thought patterns and behaviors that perpetuate addiction.
Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT)
A type of CBT focused on disputing the irrational beliefs behind unhealthy emotions and self-defeating actions.
Motivational interviewing (MI)
A collaborative, empathetic style that helps resolve ambivalence about change.
SMART Recovery vs. 12-step programs
Different philosophies, same goal.
SMART Recovery and 12-step groups like AA and NA share the common goal of helping people achieve a life free from addiction — but their approaches differ.
Secular vs. spiritual foundation
12-step programs are spiritually based; SMART Recovery is secular, centered on self-empowerment.
Goal flexibility
AA/NA hold complete abstinence as the primary objective; SMART Recovery lets you set your own goals.
Meeting focus
12-step meetings center on personal sharing; SMART meetings are more interactive and educational.
Integrating SMART Recovery at Oak Grove
Comprehensive, layered support.
Individual & group therapy
Skills learned in SMART meetings complement the deeper therapeutic work with our licensed counselors.
Medical care and MAT
The program works alongside medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and other medical support.
Relapse prevention & aftercare
SMART Recovery tools become part of your long-term plan for a lasting support network.
Common questions
SMART Recovery, answered.
How much does SMART Recovery cost?
Participation in SMART Recovery meetings is free — while some groups accept voluntary donations for operational costs, payment is never required to attend.
What is a typical meeting like?
Meetings usually start with a check-in, followed by a discussion on one of the 4-Point Program skills, guided by trained facilitators.
Is a long-term commitment required?
No. You can attend meetings as often or as little as you feel is helpful. Many people continue for ongoing motivation and community connection.
Is SMART Recovery only for substance addictions?
Not at all. The program supports a wide range of behavioral addictions, and there's also a dedicated Family & Friends program for loved ones.
Take the next step
Start your journey at Oak Grove Recovery.
Your path to healing is your own. SMART Recovery is one of the many supportive options we offer to help you build a life filled with purpose and hope.