A 12-step recovery program provides support and education for people who are trying to stay sober from alcohol or drugs. This self-help program is held in a group setting or one-on-one with a professional counselor. Affected family members may or may not attend.

While no religion is followed, the program does acknowledge a “higher power” to which members must learn to turn over their problems. The program teaches the person to change unhealthy attitudes and behaviors into healthy ones. Use of drugs or alcohol is not allowed during the program.

A 12-step program is not considered a treatment program for substance use disorder. But it can serve as an important support group.