Have you heard about the 12 Step program? In the past, you used to think it was something for other people. Now, you’re not so sure. Here’s what it does and how it works.
You Don’t Have to be Religious to Participate
It’s a common misconception that the 12 Step program requires participants to be Christians or members of a religion. That’s not the case any longer. In contrast, it even works for people who have no religious belief whatsoever. Instead, it emphasizes a connection with a higher power that’s outside of you.
Therefore, you open yourself up to peer accountability. Similarly, you take into account that your actions affect others. Because substance abuse never happens in a vacuum, healing should also affect those around you.
How a 12 Step Program Works
After talking with your therapist, you have an option to participate in the 12 Step program. Essentially, it’s an introduction to the support group format.
You learn to feel comfortable in your skin when sitting with peers who’re also in recovery. Besides that, you learn how to share your struggles with others. These peers offer feedback and encouragement. As you do the same, you develop a growing sense of self-confidence.
There’s power in the group experience. You feel stronger as a unit. Similarly, you learn from the stories of others, which spurs you on to avoid certain mistakes. During the meetings, you also learn about the Big Book.
It’s the centerpiece that ties this support group together. What is the 12 Step program like when therapists integrate it with other modalities? Its lessons intertwine with the treatments you experience there. Examples include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy as a way for you to replace negative trigger responses with positive coping skills
- One-on-one talk therapy that encourages you to deal with substance abuse stressors and resolve them
- Treatment for co-occurring conditions that might include PTSD, depression, or anxiety
- Psychodrama, which empowers you to express yourself in unique ways you may not have thought of
- Neuro and biofeedback, which are holistic disciplines that champion a whole-person healing approach
- Equine therapy, which benefits people with depression, stress, and other conditions that require management
- Exercise at your fitness level to develop a new lifestyle that you can practice after program graduation
How to Get the Help You Need Today
It’s tempting to put off therapy for another day, week, or month. How many years has it been since you’ve realized that you need help? Maybe, you’re still in denial. Then again, you might just be afraid of the unknown.
You don’t know anyone who’s been to rehab before. You don’t know what to expect. Above all, you’re not sure that you like the 12 Step program setup. Why not find out for yourself what it’s all about?
When you schedule an intake appointment with Phoenix Rising, a therapist answers all your questions about the 12 Step program. Moreover, therapists assist you with selecting a care delivery option that’s perfect for you. Finally, allow an intake counselor to explain your insurance benefits to you. Call 8552328211 now to make an informed decision whether or not rehab’s right for you.
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