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Intermediate Technical IVT

SMART Recovery

Also written as: SMART — Self-Management and Recovery Training

Self-management addiction recovery support program using cognitive-behavioral and motivational tools.

Full Definition

SMART Recovery is a self-empowerment program that helps people recover from addiction through a 4-Point Program: building motivation, coping with urges, managing thoughts and behaviors, and living a balanced life. Unlike 12-step programs, SMART Recovery uses cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational enhancement, and REBT (Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy) principles. Meetings are discussion-based rather than testimony-focused, and participants are encouraged to use the tools that work best for them. The program is secular and emphasizes personal choice and self-reliance rather than powerlessness.

Usage

Usage note: Always capitalize 'SMART Recovery' as it's a trademarked program name; distinguish from generic 'smart recovery' strategies.

In Context

  • "The treatment center offers both AA and SMART Recovery meetings to accommodate different recovery philosophies." — program brochure
  • "SMART Recovery participants learn to use the DISARM technique to manage urges and cravings." — group therapy manual

Also known as

SMART self-management recovery

Don't confuse with

AA NA 12-step programs

Editors from these organisations have used our services since 1998

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