One of the things that makes AToN Center so unique is that we expose all of our residents to different styles of community meetings. So many struggling with addiction problems think there is only one way to get support – which is through Twelve Step programming. While this is certainly a wonderful option, there are many options for different styles of support.
At AToN we recommend our residents try many different meetings – but also the same meeting several times before you decide against it. This is because sometimes a meeting might have an “off” night – but you try it again and find that it’s actually a really wonderful meeting and that “off” meeting was not typical. Many of our residents discharge from AToN with the plan of attending more than one type of community meeting in order to more fully address their needs. Here are the different options offered at AToN:
Twelve Step: These meetings are the most well known and are available in the community at almost any time. They come in different forms, Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Crystal Meth Anonymous and so on. They have a Higher Power component, twelve traditions, and twelve steps to “work.” https://www.12step.org/
SMART Recovery: These meetings are based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These meetings encourage “cross talk,” which means that attendees are encouraged to share and comment on each other’s shares. These meetings often also teach coping skills for managing cravings, emotions, and so forth. https://www.smartrecovery.org/
Refuge Recovery: This is a mindfulness based addiction support community based in Buddhism and the Four Noble Truths. Meetings often practice meditation. https://www.refugerecovery.org/
LifeRing Secular Recovery: These meetings focus on peer to peer support and are self directed. This approach is based on “developing, refining, and sharing personal strategies for continued abstinence and crafting a rewarding life in recovery.” http://lifering.org/
At AToN, our goal is to help you create your own, personalized discharge plan that meets your specific needs, that will assist you in creating a long and happy experience in recovery.
Cassandra Cannon, Ph.D.
Clinical Director
AToN Center 888-535-1516
The progression of alcoholism and addiction usually passes through several declining stages before an individual makes the decision to enter treatment. What might have started as a path to increase socialization and well-being often can lead to a solitary and lonely existence.
