A MAP, NOT A PROGRAM
I don’t run any of these—they’re fellowships, programs, and tools that exist out in the world. This is the map I’d hand a friend who asked where to start. Find the room that fits. Keep what works.
Mainstream Classics
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
The OG fellowship where millions have found sobriety through the 12 steps, sponsorship, and carrying the message. Works for a ton of people if the spiritual framing clicks for you.
Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
For anyone with substance issues (not just alcohol). Same 12-step backbone, heavy on fellowship and “we can stay clean.” Brutally honest rooms that save lives daily.
SMART Recovery
Evidence-based, self-empowerment tools drawn from CBT and other practical shit. No higher power required, just tools to manage thoughts, cravings, and build a better life. Great for the science-minded.
Recovery Dharma
Buddhist-inspired path using meditation, mindfulness, and community to work with the causes and conditions of suffering/addiction. Peer-led, welcoming, and deeply practical for those who vibe with Eastern wisdom.
Refuge Recovery
Another Buddhist-flavored approach focused on the Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path applied to addiction. Compassionate and insightful, and a bit punk rock.
Solid Secular & Alternative Options
LifeRing Secular Recovery
Self-empowered, completely secular sobriety. You run your own program with peer support—no steps, no God talk, just personal responsibility and community. Perfect if you want to chart your own course.
Women for Sobriety (WFS)
For women only. Focuses on emotional growth, self-worth, and positive reinforcement instead of powerlessness. Strong sisterhood energy.
Secular AA / AA Agnostica
12-step meetings done without the God stuff. Same fellowship and principles, adapted for atheists, agnostics, and anyone who wants the program minus the religious overlay.
More Specialized / Obscure Gems
Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA)
Laser-focused on crystal meth recovery. Shares experience, strength, and hope specific to that beast.
Heroin Anonymous (HA)
Fellowship for those recovering from heroin/opioid addiction. Straight talk from people who’ve been there.
Cocaine Anonymous (CA)
For cocaine and all mind-altering substances. Similar 12-step format with a focus on that particular chaos.
Nicotine Anonymous
For quitting nicotine in all forms. Often overlooked but damn useful—same principles applied to the sneaky tobacco/vape trap.
Computer Gaming Addicts Anonymous (CGAA)
For gaming/internet addiction. Real talk for the digital-age escape artists among us.
All Recovery
…or your local “All Recovery” meetings—big-tent meetings open to people from any recovery path. Unity in action: no single program dominates. Great for bridge-building. (Search locally, or via SAMHSA / Recovery Dharma networks.)
Not affiliated with or endorsed by any of these organizations. If you’re in crisis in the US, call or text 988—any hour, any day.