The word SMART stands for Self-Management And Recovery Training. Our meetings are scheduled to run for 90 minutes and discussions are open to anyone including supportive family members and friends.
The main focus of these meetings is how to abstain from harmful addictions or activities, including but not limited to: alcohol, drugs, food, sex, shopping, self-harm, the internet and gambling. The SMART tools are designed to help each of us — regardless of what the unwanted behavior might be — to find a better balance in our lives.
SMART is a “crosstalk” process group that discusses tools based in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to empower individuals struggling with addiction to take charge of their own recovery.
SMART meetings are confidential. You can share as much or as little (or not at all) as you like. You can use your real name or any name you want. What is said in the room, stays in the room. That is how we try to promote complete honesty. Because you can best help yourself (and others) when you are being completely honest about what is going on.
Participants are encouraged to take primary responsibility for their own recovery. Thus, there is no sponsorship or buddy system. You do not have to label or identify as an “alcoholic” or an “addict” to share. (Unless that’s part of your recovery)
While SMART does not have any spiritual component, you are welcome to discuss spirituality as part of your recovery.
SMART is particularly effective for those who struggle with 12-Step concepts like “powerlessness.” It is, however, fully compatible with AA, and many people use both.
We don’t charge anything for attendance at these meetings, but we do ask for online donations. Your donations help with local publicity, purchasing of Handbooks, and a portion of what we collect is shared with the SMART Recovery Central Office, to help keep the program available to individuals throughout the US. We’re grateful for your support.
We will sign attendance verification slips for anybody who needs it.