Alternatives to AA for Alcoholics

Many programs are available for people seeking an alternative to Alcoholics Anonymous. Choose a group depending on what you're looking for, whether it be online group support, specific step programs or programs for women only. Some organizations, such as Rational Recovery, work with the idea that individuals must stay sober and healthy on their own and do not provide treatment centers or support groups.

LifeRing Secular Recovery and Recovery, Inc.

• LifeRing Secular Recovery is a network for people wanting to recover from alcohol and drug addictions. This network believes the only way to recover from these addictions is to abstain completely and "see the power to get clean and sober inside every person," according to the website Mental Help. The group uses positive reinforcement and group support to help addicts get clean and sober. Their website lists local meetings, has an online group forum for support and includes frequently asked questions.

  LifeRing Recovery

  www.lifering.org

  Recovery, Inc., is a self-help mental health program based on the ideas of the program's founder, the late neuropsychiatrist Abraham A. Low, M.D. The program is designed to work with professional mental health services to help recovering addicts regain and maintain their mental health.

  Recovery, Inc.

  105 W. Adams Street, Suite 2940

  Chicago, Illinois 60603

  866-221-0302

  www.lowselfhelpsystems.org

Moderation Management

• Moderation Management is a behavioral change program and national support group network for those wishing to recover from alcohol addiction and make positive changes in their lifestyle habits. The program encourages recovering addicts to take responsibility for changing and maintaining such positive changes, whether it be drinking only in moderation or giving up alcohol completely. Moderation Management "promotes early self recognition of risky drinking behavior," according to the Mental Help website. The program's website features links to live meetings, tools and publications for assessing drinking habits and making positive changes and online support options.

  Moderation Management

  22 West 27th Street, 5th Floor

  New York, New York 10001

  [email protected]

  www.moderation.org

Rational Recovery

• Rational Recovery is a worldwide program that believes individuals "are on their own" in terms of staying clean and sober. This means there are no meetings or treatment centers. A source of counseling, guidance and direct instruction on how to stay free of alcohol and drugs, Rational Recovery's website provides information on the method used (Addictive Voice Recognition Technique®, or AVRT®,) and includes free information for people trying to stay sober as well as support for addicts' families. The website provides a list of frequently asked questions and information about subscription-based services.

  Rational Recovery

  Box 800

  Lotus, California 95651

  530-621-2667

  www.rational.org

Women For Sobriety, Inc.

• Women For Sobriety, Inc., is a nonprofit organization for women trying to end addictions to alcohol and drugs. Their program, entitled "New Life," is based on a Thirteen Statement Program, which promotes positive lifestyle changes and encourages both spiritual and emotional growth. The organization's website details the 13 statements and provides links to groups in your area.

  Women For Sobriety

  P.O. Box 618

  Quakertown, Pennsylvania 18951

  215-536-8026

  www.womenforsobriety.org