The 12-steps have been a well-known approach to addiction treatment and recovery for well over 80 years. Since the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous first put them to paper in the 1930s, the guidelines of Alcoholics Anonymous have helped countless addicts achieve and maintain lasting sobriety. Over time, the guidelines of the 12 steps have been modified to help those seeking to recover from a range of addiction and behavioral struggles. But what happens if you want to get sober (or overcome an addiction) but are uncomfortable with the spiritual component of a traditional 12 step rehab program? Fortunately, secular or non-12 step programs provide comprehensive addiction treatment care without the spiritual focus. Having access to both program models allows addicts ready to overcome their addiction to choose the program format that best suits their needs.
What Is a 12 Step Rehab?
12 step rehabs are based on the guidelines set forth by the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous. Depending on the program, the program may follow the guidelines to the letter or base their recovery program loosely on the original 12 steps. Today, the 12 steps can be found in a wide range of treatment programs designed to address many addictive and behavioral struggles.
Although many of the original “steps” are based on spiritual principles, many who are not religious have found success and sobriety using the program’s guidance and process. 12 step programs are a way for addicts in recovery to find support and fellowship with other like-minded peers at any stage in the recovery process. The premise of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and many other modern 12 step programs is that you can help one another to overcome addictions (of any kind) by leaning on each other and seeking the support of a “higher power” throughout your recovery journey.
What Is a Non-12 Step Rehab?
Traditional 12 step programs are not the only option for those who are ready to overcome an addiction to drugs or alcohol. Although 12 step programs welcome everyone (regardless of faith), the spiritual element of the 12 step process may be uncomfortable for some. For this reason, there are non 12 step rehab programs that provide a secular or non-spiritual approach to addiction treatment and recovery.
Like 12 step programs, non-12 step programs promote behavioral change. However, they place less emphasis on the influence of a “higher power” as part of the treatment approach. In a secular program, there is a stronger emphasis placed on self-empowerment and evidence-based therapies as part of a comprehensive treatment program. Non-12 step programs incorporate many common and essential treatment elements, including medically supervised detox, dual diagnosis addiction treatment, individual and group counseling based on evidence-based models, and participation in non-12 step peer support groups.
How Can Casa Serena Help You Get Sober Today?
At Casa Serena, we understand the decision to seek addiction treatment is difficult. When you come to Casa Serena, our caring and compassionate team of medical and mental health providers will work with you to design a treatment plan based on your unique needs and goals. At our beautiful Santa Barbara women’s rehab, we offer a wide range of treatment models designed to help you get and stay sober. We understand recovery does not end when you complete your program. Comprehensive aftercare planning begins when you start treatment, and help is available anytime you need it, for as long as you need it.
Overcoming addiction is not without challenge, but at Casa Serena, a lifetime of sobriety and wellness are within reach. To learn more about our women’s only rehab here in beautiful Santa Barbara, California, contact our admissions team today.