List of Non-12-Step Drug Rehabs
Here is access to our entire non-12-step drug rehabilitation database. Please select a state. If you need help locating the right treatment for you, do not hesitate to contact one of our treatment specialists at 1-800-304-2219.
State
Type of Treatment
- Non 12-Step Rehab

What is Non-12-Step Drug Rehab?
A non-12-step drug rehab program does not utilize twelve-step modalities. The treatment methods vary significantly and can include traditional and non-traditional approaches. It may involve behavioral therapies or holistic approaches, and it tends to be more individualized, not focusing entirely on peer support.
However, peer support in some form is still a staple in most non-12-step drug rehab. Common alternatives to 12-step treatment include Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART), Women in Sobriety, evidence-based and science-based treatment, experiential therapies, and holistic therapies.
Who is Non-12-Step Treatment Best For?
A non-12-step drug rehab program could be a good option for someone who:Â
- Prefers alternative therapies or evidence-based approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy.
- Individuals who have been through 12-step treatment programs and have not connected well with the treatment process.
- Someone who wants a tailored program focusing more on the individual and underlying issues.
- Someone interested in incorporating more than one therapy approach and does not see a benefit in group therapy.
These programs are successful, especially within a long-term residential setting. Yet, it is essential to note that non-12-step drug rehab is not for everyone, and many people are dedicated to the 12-step method. An addiction assessment will help you determine if this is the best option.

Ask a Professional
When is non-twelve-step treatment appropriate?
Non-twelve-step programs are appropriate for anyone looking for an alternative to the traditional twelve-step model. They might be looking for a completely different approach because they’ve tried twelve-step programs before and not found success. Or perhaps they are simply looking for a specific methodology for their first and hopefully last treatment attempt. There are various reasons why someone might be searching for non-twelve-step treatment. Thankfully, those needs are being met more and more so that people aren’t forced into recovery models they may disagree with.
How do non-12-step drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs operate?
Non-twelve-step rehabilitation programs operate the same way as 12-step programs, but the methodologies of treatment differ. Many non-12-step options are effective, like traditional forms of therapy and experiential therapy approaches. Overall, it should include a range of care with a tailored treatment program and follow-up options for a successful outcome. The rehabilitation process begins with an assessment, which could be done over the phone or in-person. The purpose of an addiction assessment is to determine the extent of addiction, underlying medical problems, addiction history, and treatment history.
The information is gathered, and a qualified professional help the addict or family determine what approaches are needed to treat the addiction. Assessments and screenings have proven effective and contributed to better long-term outcomes because the proper treatment was matched to the client’s needs. The first step with rehabilitation is detox, which treats the initial cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Different drugs and alcohol create unique withdrawal symptoms. Typically, two common types of detox are medical detox or conventional detox.
What's next after completing non-twelve-step treatment?
After non-twelve-step treatment is complete, the next step is to follow the discharge and aftercare plans developed while in treatment. If the person is discharged from inpatient treatment, the next step is usually outpatient treatment or a sober living environment such as a halfway house. For others, they may rely on a support group such as AA or NA even though they didn’t attend a twelve-step program. Most importantly, they are getting adequate support transitioning back to independent living after treatment.
What are the alternatives to non-12-step substance abuse treatment?
The alternative to non-12-step substance abuse treatment is twelve rehabilitation, or someone could consider faith-based rehabilitation as an alternative to non-12-step therapy. The twelve-step philosophy was pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous and is used by most residential and outpatient treatment programs across the nation. However, the average facility provides various approaches to ensure the right one is applied to the patient.
The basic premise of 12-step rehabilitation is that people can help one another achieve and maintain abstinence from drugs and alcohol. The healing and or recovering from addiction cannot come about unless the person with the addiction surrenders to a higher power. Twelve-step programs and support are an effective approach used by millions of addicts. Overall, 12-step approaches to treatment continue to remain a commonly recommended and used treatment modality for most addictions.
Faith-based rehabilitation incorporates spirituality into the treatment process. These programs help patients connect with a higher power to overcome substance abuse. The spiritual elements focus on treatment, but traditional approaches are used and play a crucial part in treatment. Certified spiritual advisors are present for counseling and guidance during treatment. Faith-based programs also allow addicts to include worships and scripture as part of their recovery plan. For example, spaces for prayer are available on-site to host religious services. Scripture readings, discussions, and even meditation are common within a faith-based treatment center.
The alternative to non-12-step substance abuse treatment is twelve rehabilitation, or someone could consider faith-based rehabilitation as an alternative to non-12-step therapy. The twelve-step philosophy was pioneered by Alcoholics Anonymous and is used by most residential and outpatient treatment programs across the nation. However, the average facility provides various approaches to ensure the right one is applied to the patient.
The basic premise of 12-step rehabilitation is that people can help one another achieve and maintain abstinence from drugs and alcohol. The healing and or recovering from addiction cannot come about unless the person with the addiction surrenders to a higher power. Twelve-step programs and support are an effective approach used by millions of addicts. Overall, 12-step approaches to treatment continue to remain a commonly recommended and used treatment modality for most addictions.
Faith-based rehabilitation incorporates spirituality into the treatment process. These programs help patients connect with a higher power to overcome substance abuse. The spiritual elements focus on treatment, but traditional approaches are used and play a crucial part in treatment. Certified spiritual advisors are present for counseling and guidance during treatment. Faith-based programs also allow addicts to include worships and scripture as part of their recovery plan. For example, spaces for prayer are available on-site to host religious services. Scripture readings, discussions, and even meditation are common within a faith-based treatment center.
Want to know more?
The questions from Addicted.org’s “Learn from our Experts” are answered by Michael Leach, CCMA. If you need further clarification on any of the questions above or have any other questions you can contact him directly at mike@addicted.org.