Medically reviewed by Kevin Wandler, MD, Chief Medical Advisor
Mutual-support groups are one of the most accessible tools in recovery. They are free, widely available and full of people who understand what you are going through. Two of the most well-known options are Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and SMART Recovery. Both aim to help people stop using alcohol or drugs, but they take noticeably different approaches.
There is no single right answer about which group to choose. This guide compares AA and SMART Recovery side by side so you can decide what to try first, or whether to use both.
What AA Is
AA is one of the oldest and most widespread mutual-support groups in the world. Its program is built around the Twelve Steps, a sequence of principles that includes admitting powerlessness over alcohol, taking a personal inventory, making amends and helping others. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking.
Key features of AA include:
- A spiritual framework. The steps refer to a higher power, which members are encouraged to define in their own way. Some members are religious, and others are not.
- Sponsorship. Newer members often work the steps with a sponsor, a more experienced member who offers guidance.
- Varied meeting formats. Meetings may center on a speaker, a discussion topic or literature study. Some are open to anyone, and others are only for people with a drinking problem.
- Anonymity. Members share first names only and agree to keep what is said in the room private.
Related twelve-step fellowships, such as Narcotics Anonymous, follow a similar model for people who use drugs.
What SMART Recovery Is
SMART Recovery, short for Self-Management and Recovery Training, is a secular program that draws on ideas from cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational approaches. Its Four-Point Program focuses on:
- Building and maintaining motivation
- Coping with urges
- Managing thoughts, feelings and behaviors
- Living a balanced life
Meetings are led by trained facilitators and tend to be discussion-based, with participants working through practical tools together. SMART Recovery avoids labels and addresses many kinds of addictive behavior, not only alcohol. It is available both in person and online, and it offers separate meetings for family and friends.
Key Differences
- Philosophy. AA emphasizes surrender, spiritual growth and fellowship. SMART emphasizes self-empowerment and skill-building.
- Structure. AA follows the Twelve Steps. SMART uses its Four-Point Program and worksheets based on behavioral tools.
- Guidance. AA relies on sponsors. SMART relies on trained facilitators and peer discussion.
- Conversation style. Many AA meetings discourage responding directly to what another person shares. SMART meetings typically encourage back-and-forth problem-solving.
- Availability. AA meetings are extremely common in person across Dallas-Fort Worth. SMART tends to have fewer local in-person meetings but offers many meetings online.
What They Have in Common
Despite their differences, the two groups share important ground. Both are free. Both offer peer support from people with lived experience. Both can work alongside professional treatment, including therapy and medication. Attitudes toward medication can vary between individual meetings, but you never need a group’s permission to follow your prescriber’s advice about medication-assisted treatment or any other prescription.
Other Peer Support Options
AA and SMART are not the only choices. Other groups include Celebrate Recovery, a Christian program; Recovery Dharma, which draws on Buddhist practices; LifeRing Secular Recovery; and Women for Sobriety. Families can find support through Al-Anon, Nar-Anon and SMART Recovery Family and Friends.
What to Expect at a First Meeting
First meetings can feel intimidating, but no one expects you to speak. At most meetings, you can simply listen. Arrive a few minutes early, introduce yourself by first name if you want to and pick up any newcomer materials. At an AA meeting, someone may offer a list of phone numbers. At a SMART meeting, the facilitator may briefly explain the tools before discussion begins. Either way, you are welcome to come back and try again.
How to Choose What Fits
The only way to know what works for you is to try it. Attend several meetings of any group before deciding, since each meeting has its own personality. Pay attention to whether you leave feeling more hopeful and connected. Many people combine approaches, such as attending AA for community and using SMART tools to manage urges. A therapist trained in cognitive behavioral therapy can also help you practice skills that overlap with SMART’s approach.
Peer Support and Professional Treatment
Mutual-support groups are valuable, but they are not medical care. If you drink heavily every day, do not stop suddenly on your own. Withdrawal from alcohol and benzodiazepines can be life-threatening and needs medical supervision, such as through alcohol detox. Professional treatment can then address the underlying patterns, and peer groups can become a lasting part of your support.
At Promises DFW, treatment includes individual and group therapy, and aftercare planning helps each client think through which kind of peer support might suit them after treatment. Learn more about alcohol addiction treatment at Promises DFW.
In an emergency, call 911. If you are in emotional crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 988.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I attend both AA and SMART Recovery?
Yes. Many people find that the two complement each other. Use what helps and set aside what does not.
Do I have to believe in God to go to AA?
No. AA invites members to define a higher power in their own way. Some members use the group itself or their values as that concept.
Is SMART Recovery only for alcohol?
No. SMART Recovery addresses a range of substances and addictive behaviors.
Can a support group replace treatment?
For some people with milder problems, groups may be enough. Many others need professional treatment, especially when withdrawal risk or mental health conditions are involved.
Find the Right Starting Point
If you are not sure whether you need treatment, peer support or both, our admissions team can talk it through with you. Check your insurance options, contact Promises DFW or call (469) 546-9303 any time.