SMART Recovery is built around a framework that blends cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), and motivational interviewing techniques. Since the approach is practical and action-oriented, clients learn skills that apply to real situations.

A SMART session might involve exploring a recent craving, mapping out the thoughts that fueled it, and identifying healthier responses. Another meeting might focus on motivation by helping clients list personal reasons for change and discussing how to stay aligned with those values despite stress or setbacks.

Clients appreciate SMART because it encourages self-reflection without judgment. Even when someone slips, the focus remains on learning from the moment rather than feeling ashamed.

SMART Recovery is organized into four core points. Each one addresses a different area of personal change, and together they form a toolkit clients can return to whenever they feel stuck.

1) Building and maintaining motivation

Clients explore what fuels their desire for change. While someone might start recovery to repair relationships, another may feel motivated by wanting greater freedom or physical health. Discussions often focus on clarifying values, noticing barriers, and identifying steps that help maintain momentum.

2) Coping with urges and cravings

Cravings can feel sudden and intense, especially early in recovery. SMART teaches strategies, such as urge surfing, a technique that helps people observe cravings like waves that rise and fall rather than something they must obey. Clients also practice grounding skills, distraction strategies, and reframing thoughts that increase temptation.

3) Managing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors

Using CBT and REBT principles, clients learn how thoughts affect emotions and choices. If someone thinks “I already messed up today, so nothing matters now,” that thought can lead to further use. SMART teaches how to interrupt these patterns and replace them with more balanced, realistic beliefs.

4) Living a balanced life

Recovery involves more than avoiding substances. Clients explore how to rebuild routines, relationships, and hobbies so life feels meaningful and sustainable. While some people

focus on improving sleep or nutrition, others repair social connections or rediscover interests they lost during active use.

Meetings are a core part of SMART Recovery. Since they’re discussion-based rather than lecture-style, participants talk through real situations, share ideas, and practice skills together. Facilitators help guide conversation, yet meetings remain collaborative and supportive.

SMART Recovery meetings are available in a variety of formats:

• In-person meetings
• Online meetings
• Mobile app check-ins
• Self-guided digital modules
• Specialty groups for family members or specific populations

Because clients can continue attending meetings after leaving treatment, SMART becomes a long-term support system that adapts to life’s changes.

Some clients want an alternative to 12-step approaches. While both can be helpful, they differ in a few key ways:

• SMART is non-spiritual, while 12-step programs have a spiritual framework
• SMART focuses on self-management and cognitive skills
• 12-step meetings often emphasize surrendering to a higher power
• SMART encourages personal responsibility and behavioral change

SMART Recovery works well for people who want structure without strict rules. It may be especially helpful if someone:

• Prefers a practical, science-based approach
• Wants tools they can practice immediately
• Appreciates open discussion rather than scripted steps
• Seeks alternatives to spiritual frameworks
• Enjoys setting personal goals and tracking progress

SMART also supports family members, who often attend separate groups to learn communication strategies and reduce emotional strain.

At Jasper Grove Recovery, SMART Recovery is woven into treatment plans for clients in residential care. While therapy helps clients explore deeper emotional patterns, SMART gives them tools to manage day-to-day decisions and challenging moments.

For example:

• A client who notices evening cravings might use urge surfing instead of acting on impulse
• Someone overwhelmed by stress may return to their motivation list to remind themselves why they began recovery
• A person who struggles with negative thinking might use CBT worksheets from SMART to challenge self-defeating thoughts

Even when life becomes stressful, SMART strategies help people stay grounded.