SMART Recovery in Southwest Louisiana
Self-Management And Recovery Training. A modern, evidence-based path to recovery from any addictive behavior — no higher power required.
What is SMART Recovery?
SMART Recovery is a worldwide community of mutual-support meetings built on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational tools. It treats recovery as a skill set you can learn — not a lifelong identity — and welcomes anyone working on alcohol, drugs, gambling, or other behaviors they want to change.
SMART is secular. Spiritual beliefs are personal — bring them or leave them at the door.
Labels are optional. The focus is on choices and skills, not identity.
Tools come from CBT, REBT, and motivational interviewing — methods used by therapists worldwide.
People often 'graduate' once they've internalized the tools. There's no requirement to attend forever.
How is it different from 12-step programs? Both can work. AA/NA are spiritually-grounded fellowships built on lifelong peer support and the 12 Steps. SMART is secular, skills-based, and treats abstinence as a personal goal you set. Many people in SWLA mix both — pick what works for you.
The 4-Point Program
Get clear on why change matters to you. Cost-benefit your way to a stronger 'why'.
Practical tools — DEADS, urge surfing, distraction — to ride out cravings without acting on them.
Use CBT and REBT to challenge the thoughts that drive use, and respond instead of react.
Rebuild routines, relationships, and goals so recovery isn't just abstaining — it's a life worth showing up for.
SMART meetings near you
All meetingsFree SMART tools & worksheets
Use these on your own or bring them to a meeting.
Weigh the short- and long-term costs vs benefits of using and of changing.
Track urges, triggers, intensity, and how you coped — patterns you can act on.
Activating event → Beliefs → Consequences. Spot and challenge irrational thoughts.
Rank what matters most so daily choices line up with the life you want.
Destructive Imagery & Self-talk Awareness & Refusal Method — name it to defuse it.
Concrete steps, supports, and what could get in the way of your plan.
Tools, urge log, meeting finder, and a daily check-in — all in your pocket. Free on iOS and Android.