If you’re looking for a different approach to recovery, you may have heard of SMART Recovery Denver. It’s a self-empowering and science-based support group that helps people find their own path away from addiction. Unlike some traditional programs, this program isn’t limited to just drug or alcohol use. It’s designed to help with all kinds of addictive behaviors, including gambling, overeating, or compulsive shopping.
The core of SMART Recovery is rooted in well-established scientific principles, drawing its tools from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT). This means the focus is on learning practical skills to manage your thoughts, feelings, and actions. It’s an evidence-based approach that empowers you with the tools you need to make lasting changes, putting you in the driver’s seat of your own recovery journey. Many find that learning about these evidence-based recovery methods gives them a sense of control and hope.
How does SMART recovery work?
SMART Recovery works by giving you practical, easy-to-use tools that you can apply to your daily life. Instead of focusing on past mistakes, the program equips you with strategies to manage the here and now. It’s built on a foundation of two key components that help you understand your triggers and change your responses to them: the 4-Point Program and the ABC Model. These frameworks break down the complex process of recovery into manageable steps, helping you build momentum and confidence.
4-point program
The 4-Point Program is the heart of SMART Recovery. It’s a flexible, four-part system designed to help you tackle the challenges of recovery in a structured way. Each point addresses a crucial area of change:
- Building and maintaining motivation. This point helps you identify your personal reasons for wanting to change and keeps you focused on your goals, especially when things get tough.
- Coping with urges. You’ll learn practical techniques to manage cravings and urges before they become overwhelming, giving you the power to ride them out.
- Managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This involves learning how to recognize unhelpful thought patterns and develop healthier ways of coping with difficult emotions without turning to addictive behaviors.
- Living a balanced life. The final point focuses on creating a fulfilling and healthy lifestyle, helping you find joy and purpose beyond addiction for long-term recovery.
SMART recovery ABC model
One of the most powerful tools you’ll learn is the ABC Model, which helps you understand the connection between events, your beliefs, and your reactions. It’s a simple way to challenge the dysfunctional beliefs that often fuel addictive behaviors. Here’s how it works:
- A is the Activating Event. This is the trigger, like having a stressful day at work.
- B is your Beliefs. This is what you tell yourself about the event, such as, “I can’t handle this stress; I need a drink to relax.”
- C is the Consequence. This is how you feel and what you do as a result of your belief, like feeling anxious and pouring a drink.
By learning to identify and dispute the irrational belief (B), you can change the consequence (C). For example, you could replace the thought with, “This is a tough day, but drinking will only make it worse. I’ll go for a walk instead.” This simple shift in thinking can make all the difference in managing triggers and feelings.
SMART recovery meetings
Finding support is a key step, and if you’re looking for SMART Recovery in Denver, you have options. There are in-person meetings available throughout the Denver, Aurora, and greater Colorado area, as well as a wide range of online meetings that offer flexibility and accessibility from home. To find a current schedule of local and virtual sessions, the official SMART Recovery meeting finder is the best resource.
If you’re new, you can expect a welcoming and non-judgmental environment. Meetings are confidential, typically last about 60-90 minutes, and are led by a trained facilitator. The focus is on practical problem-solving and group discussion, where participants share challenges and successes and learn how to apply SMART tools in their own lives. You won’t be pressured to speak, but you’ll be encouraged to participate when you feel ready. Getting started and learning about the admissions process for treatment programs can often happen alongside attending community meetings.
SMART recovery vs. 12-step programs
While both SMART Recovery and 12-step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offer valuable support, they have different approaches. Understanding these differences can help you decide which path feels right for you. It’s not about which one is better, but about finding the best fit for your personal beliefs and recovery goals.
| Feature | SMART recovery | 12-step programs (AA/NA) |
|---|---|---|
| Underlying Principles | Based on: Science and evidence-based therapies like CBT and REBT. Secular and self-empowering. | Based on: Spiritual principles, with an emphasis on a “Higher Power.” |
| View of Addiction | Viewed as: A maladaptive behavior that can be managed and changed through learned skills. | Viewed as: A disease characterized by powerlessness that requires lifelong management. |
| Meeting Format | Led by: A trained facilitator, with interactive group discussions and problem-solving (cross-talk is encouraged). | Led by: Peers, with members sharing personal stories one at a time (cross-talk is generally discouraged). |
| Stance on Abstinence | Approach: Abstinence is encouraged, but moderation is an individual choice. The focus is on reducing harm. | Approach: Complete and lifelong abstinence is the primary goal. |
SMART recovery in addiction treatment
SMART Recovery is a powerful self-help tool, and its effectiveness can be magnified when it’s part of a comprehensive addiction treatment plan. Integrating the practical skills learned in meetings with professional care creates a strong foundation for lasting sobriety. At Red Ribbon Recovery Colorado, we help clients weave SMART principles into their personalized treatment plans, combining peer support with evidence-based therapies.
This integrated approach is particularly helpful in our outpatient and dual diagnosis programs. It allows us to address co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety or depression alongside addiction, ensuring that you’re healing as a whole person. By combining the self-management skills of SMART Recovery with clinical guidance, you can build a more resilient foundation for long-term recovery. We accept most private insurance, making it easier to access personalized care that honors your unique journey. You can verify your insurance coverage with us to see what options are available.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, SMART Recovery meetings are free to attend. As a non-profit organization, it relies on voluntary donations to operate. You are never required to pay to participate in a meeting, whether it’s one of the many online meetings or an in-person session.
During meetings, a “hat may be passed” for donations, but there is no pressure to contribute. This ensures that cost is never a barrier for anyone seeking support for their recovery journey.
Anyone looking for support with any type of addictive behavior is welcome at SMART Recovery meetings. The program isn’t limited to just drug or alcohol use; it also helps people managing issues like gambling, compulsive shopping, or disordered eating.
The tools and discussions are designed to be useful for a wide range of challenges. You don’t need a formal diagnosis to attend, just a desire to make a positive change in your life.
No, you never have to speak if you don’t want to. It’s completely fine to attend meetings and just listen, especially when you are new and getting a feel for the format. The main goal is for you to feel safe and supported.
Participation is encouraged because it allows for helpful discussion and problem-solving, but you can choose to share when you feel ready. Many people find they gain a lot just by hearing others’ experiences and learning how they apply the tools.
No, SMART Recovery is for any type of addiction or problematic behavior. While many participants seek help for alcohol or drug use, the program’s tools are effective for a wide range of issues. This can include gambling, compulsive shopping, overeating, or any other repeated behavior you want to change.
The focus is on the underlying thoughts and feelings that drive these actions, making it a flexible and inclusive approach to recovery for many different kinds of challenges.
Yes, confidentiality is a cornerstone of all SMART Recovery meetings. Participants are asked to respect the privacy of others by not discussing personal stories or details shared during the meeting outside of that space. This helps build a safe and trusting environment.
This commitment to privacy allows people to be open and honest about their recovery journey without fear of judgment or exposure. Facilitators will typically remind the group of this rule at the start of each session.
Ready to start your journey with SMART Recovery in Denver
If you’re in the area and looking for a new path forward, SMART Recovery Denver offers an accessible and empowering option. It provides practical tools and a supportive community to help you take control of your recovery. Lasting change is not just possible, it’s within your reach when you have the right support system in place. Whether your next step is attending your first meeting or exploring how professional care can enhance your journey, taking that step is what matters most.
You don’t have to figure this out alone. The tools from SMART Recovery Denver, combined with professional support, can create a powerful framework for change. If you’re ready to explore what a personalized treatment plan could look like for you in Colorado, we’re here to help. To learn more, feel free to give us a call at (303) 219-3980. At Red Ribbon Recovery Colorado, we believe in empowering you on your path to a healthier life. If you have questions or want to see how we can help, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Your journey to recovery can start today.
Sources
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- Montgomery County Government. (n.d.). Welcome to SMART Recovery. Montgomery County Government.
- SMART Recovery. (n.d.). Meetings. SMART Recovery.
- SMART Recovery. (n.d.). The SMART Recovery meeting outline. SMART Recovery.
- SAMHSA. (January 8, 2025). Evidence-based practices resource center. SAMHSA.
- SAMHSA. (n.d.). FindTreatment.gov: Home. SAMHSA.
- Colorado Behavioral Health Administration. (July 1, 2025). Get help: Mental health, drugs, or alcohol. Colorado Department of Human Services.
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