Recovery looks different for everyone. While some people connect with 12-step groups, others want a different type of support. That’s where SMART Recovery comes in. SMART stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training. It is based on science, focused on self-empowerment, and gives people practical tools to build healthier lives.
At Hickory Grove Recovery in Morrilton, Arkansas, we use SMART Recovery alongside counseling, medical care, and aftercare support to give clients more options. This program is not about one set of rules—it’s about learning skills, practicing them in a supportive setting, and applying them in daily life.
What is SMART Recovery?
SMART Recovery started in 1994 as an alternative to Alcoholics Anonymous and other 12-step groups. It was designed for people who prefer a secular program that uses evidence-based techniques. Instead of relying on a higher power, SMART helps participants focus on their own motivation and ability to change.
Self-Management and Recovery Training (SMART)
SMART is built on the belief that people can learn to manage their own behavior and create new patterns. The program helps people take control by:
- Identifying what drives their substance use or behavior.
- Building confidence through small, realistic changes.
- Learning new ways to handle stress, cravings, and emotions.
- Creating healthier routines and balanced lives.
Core principles and approach
SMART Recovery is grounded in four key ideas:
- Self-empowerment: You are the one making decisions about your recovery.
- Practical skills: Meetings focus on tools you can use right away.
- Evidence-based methods: The program uses therapies backed by research.
- Inclusive support: Anyone struggling with substance or behavioral addictions is welcome.
How SMART Recovery works: The 4-Point Program
The 4-Point Program is the foundation of SMART Recovery. Each point builds skills that can be used daily, both inside and outside of meetings.
Build and maintain motivation
Participants explore their reasons for change and make them personal. For example, one person may want to stop drinking to repair family relationships, while another may want to protect their health or career. By writing down and revisiting these reasons, motivation grows stronger over time.
Cope with urges and cravings
SMART teaches strategies like:
- Urge surfing: Riding out a craving like a wave until it passes.
- Thought-stopping: Catching unhelpful thoughts before they spiral.
- Distraction techniques: Using healthy activities like walking, journaling, or calling a friend when cravings hit.
These tools give people control in moments that might otherwise lead to relapse.
Manage thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
CBT-based skills help participants notice negative thoughts, challenge them, and replace them with healthier perspectives. For example, “I’ve failed before so I can’t recover” can be reframed as “Relapse happens, but I can learn and move forward.”
Live a balanced life
Long-term recovery is not just about avoiding substances—it’s about creating a full and satisfying life. SMART encourages people to:
- Reconnect with hobbies.
- Improve relationships.
- Take care of physical health.
- Set goals for work, school, or personal growth.
Evidence base: CBT, REBT, and motivational interviewing
SMART Recovery is rooted in therapies that have been studied for decades:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps people identify harmful thought patterns and change them.
- Rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT): Focuses on challenging irrational beliefs that can lead to unhealthy behaviors.
- Motivational interviewing (MI): A counseling style that builds motivation by exploring personal goals and values.
These methods are commonly used in treatment settings, which makes SMART a natural fit alongside programs at Hickory Grove Recovery, including medication-assisted treatment.
SMART Recovery vs. 12-step programs (AA/NA)
SMART Recovery and 12-step groups share the same goal—helping people live without addiction—but they approach it differently.
Secular, self-empowerment vs higher power
12-step programs often focus on surrendering to a higher power. SMART is secular. It teaches people to rely on themselves and the skills they practice.
Flexible goals, including harm reduction
In AA or NA, abstinence is usually the only acceptable outcome. SMART allows participants to set their own goals. For some, that means working toward harm reduction before complete abstinence. For others, it means full sobriety right away.
Meeting structure and tools
12-step meetings often focus on sharing stories and following the steps. SMART meetings center on learning tools, practicing exercises, and supporting each other in applying those tools in everyday life.
Meetings and support options
SMART Recovery is widely available, with meetings offered in many different formats:
- In-person meetings: Small group sessions held in communities across the world.
- Online meetings: Video and chat-based groups available around the clock.
- Facilitator-led discussions: Trained facilitators guide conversations and introduce exercises.
- Confidential and free: There are no membership fees, though voluntary donations are welcome.
At Hickory Grove Recovery, we help clients connect to meetings that fit their needs during and after treatment.
SMART Recovery tools and resources
The SMART Toolbox is a set of resources that participants can use to practice what they learn. These tools include:
- Worksheets and exercises: For identifying triggers, handling cravings, and problem-solving.
- Handbooks and guides: Step-by-step instructions for using SMART techniques.
- Mobile app: Access strategies, track goals, and find meeting schedules.
- Videos and forums: Learn from others and connect with a wider community online.
These tools help people keep making progress even when they’re not in meetings.
Who SMART Recovery helps
SMART Recovery is designed for a wide range of people. It’s not limited to one type of addiction or situation.
- Substance addictions: Alcohol, opioids, stimulants, cannabis, and more.
- Behavioral addictions: Gambling, gaming, food, or pornography.
- Family & Friends program: Offers support for loved ones, teaching coping strategies and ways to encourage healthier change.
Because it is flexible, SMART can be used by people of all ages, backgrounds, and stages of recovery.
Effectiveness and outcomes
SMART Recovery has been studied less than 12-step programs, but the research we have shows it helps people make real progress.
A large study of 368 people with alcohol problems is following participants for two years. Early reports show that people in SMART Recovery are doing as well as those in Alcoholics Anonymous when it comes to staying sober and cutting back on heavy drinking.¹
A U.S. trial tested SMART’s online program called Overcoming Addictions. People who used the app, went to meetings, or did both all showed improvements in their drinking.¹
Another study compared SMART with other recovery groups. At both 6 and 12 months, people in SMART had results just as strong as those in groups like AA or LifeRing.¹
These studies suggest SMART Recovery can reduce substance use, improve coping skills, and help people feel more confident about their recovery. Because SMART is based on cognitive-behavioral therapy, it also gives people tools to stay motivated and handle cravings in daily life.
History and recognition
SMART Recovery began in 1994 in the United States and has since grown worldwide. Today, there are thousands of meetings in dozens of countries. Health organizations, clinicians, and treatment centers recognize SMART as a reliable, science-based option for people seeking recovery support.
Integrating SMART Recovery with professional treatment
At Hickory Grove Recovery, SMART Recovery is one of the many supports available to clients. It blends well with:
- Therapy programs: Individual and group counseling.
- Medical care: Including medication-assisted treatment.
- Relapse prevention planning: Using SMART tools to prepare for high-risk situations.
- Aftercare planning: Building a network of support for life after treatment.
This mix of professional care and peer support creates a safety net for people in recovery.
Get started: Find a SMART meeting
Joining SMART Recovery is simple. Meetings are available both online and in person, and resources can be downloaded or purchased for free or at low cost. At Hickory Grove Recovery, we connect clients to SMART meetings as part of their treatment plan and encourage them to keep attending after they leave.
FAQs: Cost, meeting format, and participation
Meetings are free. Some groups collect donations to help cover costs, but participation does not depend on paying.
Groups often start with a check-in, then focus on one of the 4-Point Program skills. Facilitators may use worksheets, exercises, or open discussion.
No. You can attend as often or as little as you want. Many people keep going to SMART because it gives them ongoing motivation and connection.
No. SMART is open to people working on behavioral addictions too. There is also a Family & Friends program for loved ones.
SMART Recovery at Hickory Grove Recovery
At Hickory Grove Recovery in Morrilton, Arkansas, we believe recovery should fit the person, not the other way around. SMART Recovery gives people another choice—a science-based, secular program that works alongside therapy and medical care. With tools for motivation, cravings, emotions, and balance, it helps people build lives they are proud of.
Call our admissions team at 501.509.5143 today to learn more about our therapy programs and how SMART Recovery can be part of your path to lasting recovery.
Your path forward starts here. Reach out today
At Hickory Grove Recovery, we meet people where they are. Whether you’re just beginning to explore treatment options or ready to start therapy as part of residential care, we’re here to guide you with compassion, professionalism, and hope.
Our addiction therapy programs near Little Rock are grounded in clinical excellence and built around each person’s unique story. We don’t just treat addiction—we help people reclaim their lives.
If you or someone you love is searching for effective, compassionate addiction and mental health therapy programs in Central Arkansas, contact us today at 501.509.5143 or online. Our team is ready to listen, answer your questions, and help you take the first step toward healing.
Real recovery. Right here. Let’s rediscover what’s possible—together.
