This alcohol self-help groups lists free or very inexpensive groups. All groups are non-12 step. It has links to more information along with other resources.
I. HAMS alcohol harm reduction program
The name HAMS stands for Harm reduction, Abstinence, and Moderation Support. HAMS harm reduction is effective in reducing alcohol and drug problems. This is important. Many people find AA, NA, and other 12-step meetings to be embarrassing. They’re also time-consuming. And, worst of all, they’re generally ineffective.
Learn more about HAMS.
II. LifeRing
Discover more about LifeRing.
III. Moderation Management
Visit Moderation Management.
IV. Rational Recovery
RR uses sound psychological principles. Not surprisingly, research has also shown that RR for alcoholism and drugs works. It’s also effective for other behaviors.
To learn more, visit this description of Rational Recovery.
V. Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS)
Discover more about Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS).
VI. SMART Recovery
Want to learn more about SMART Recovery?
VII. Women for Sobriety
Learn much more about Women for Sobriety self-help.
Resources: Alcohol Self-Help Groups
Readings
Anderson, K. How to Change Your Drinking: a Harm Reduction Guide to Alcohol. NY: HAMS, 2010.
Christopher, J. How to Stay Sober: Recovery without Religion. Buffalo: Prometheus, 1988.
______. SOS Sobriety: the Proven Alternative to 12-step Programs. Buffalo: Prometheus, 1992.
Hester, R., et al. SMART Recovery. J Internet Med, 2013, 15(7), e134.
Kelly, P., et al. SMART Recovery. Drug Alc Rev, 2014, 33, 7-8.
Kishline A. Moderate Drinking: The Moderation Management Guide. NY: Crown, 1995.
MacGregor, S. and Herring, R. The SMART Pilot Project. London: Middlesex U. Drug and Alc Res Group, 2010.
Nicolaus, M. Empowering Your Sober Self. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 2009.
National Newsletter for S.O.S. Buffalo, NY: S.O.S.
O’Sullivan, D., et al. SMART Recovery. Rehab Couns Bull, 2014.
Rational Recovery is an Effective Self-Help Program. In: Barbour, S. (Ed.) Alcohol. San Diego: Greenhaven, 1998, Pp. 135–143.
Rotgers, F., et al. Responsible Drinking: a Moderation Management Approach for Problem Drinkers. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger, 2002.
Sobriety Handbook. The SOS Way. Oakland, CA : LifeRing, 1997.
S.O.S. Newsletter. Buffalo: SOS.
Trimpey, J. Rational Recovery. NY: Pocket, 1996.
Links to Alcohol Self-Help Groups Websites
HAMS alcohol harm reduction program.
Secular Organizations for Sobriety (SOS).
Know of any non-12 step alcohol self-help groups that should be added? If so, contact hansondl[at sign]potsdam[dot]edu/ Thanks!