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Types of 12 Step Programs

It is a very difficult process to break an addiction; however, people who are working toward recovery often find that the support of others, coupled with a structured plan for recovery, is the best route for them to take. There are many different 12 Step programs that exist to help people work toward their goals.

What Are 12 Step Programs?

While the methodology of each program differs, the purpose of a 12 step program is always the same –to help people struggling with addiction. The process includes different steps and goals that each member adheres to and accomplishes. According to the American Psychological Association, some common steps in the twelve-step process include:

admitting that one cannot control one’s alcoholism, addiction or compulsion
recognizing a higher power that can give strength
examining past mistakes with the help of a sponsor (experienced member)
making amends for these errors
learning to live a new life with a new code of behavior
helping others who suffer from the same alcoholism, addictions, or compulsions

The First 12 Step Program

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), founded in 1935, was the first twelve-step program ever created. The steps, which are very similar to ones already mentioned, were put in place at that time. In 1946, twelve traditions were created that governed how groups functioned and related to each other as membership was quickly growing. Traditions included the practice of anonymity by only using one’s first name and the tradition of “singleness of purpose.” The latter tradition meant that AA would have “but one primary purpose – to carry its message to the alcoholic who still suffers.” As such, this precluded attendance by anyone who did not suffer from alcohol misuse and resulted in the formation of other 12 step programs.

Other Types of 12 Step Programs

Because Alcoholics Anonymous was exclusive to people who struggled with alcohol addiction, a vast array of other programs were formed to aid and support those in recovery from other addictive disorders. These include the following groups:

Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACA)

Al-Anon/Alateen (for friends and families of alcoholics)

Cocaine Anonymous (CA)

Clutterers Anonymous (CLA)

Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA)

Co-Anon (for friends and family of addicts)

CoDA –Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA) – for people working to end patterns of dysfunctional relationships and develop functional and healthy relationships

COSA (an auxiliary group of Sex Addicts Anonymous)

COSLAA –CoSex and Love Addicts Anonymous

DA –Debtors Anonymous (DA)

EA –Emotions Anonymous (EA) for recovery from mental and emotional illness

Families Anonymous (for relatives and friends of addicts)

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous

Food Addicts Anonymous (FAA)

Gamblers Anonymous (GA)

Gam-Anon/Gam-A-Teen (for friends and family members of problem gamblers)

Heroin Anonymous (HA)

Marijuana Anonymous

Narcotics Anonymous (NA)