Quick comparison
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a long-standing mutual-aid fellowship built around the Twelve Steps, sponsorship, and shared experience. SMART Recovery is a science-informed mutual-aid program using cognitive and behavioral tools without a spiritual requirement. Both offer free peer support; many people also use licensed treatment alongside either path.
| Factor | SMART Recovery (typical) | AA (typical, including online) |
|---|---|---|
| Philosophy | Self-empowerment, evidence-based psychological tools; no spiritual requirement. | Twelve Steps, fellowship; spiritual language in many meetings (interpretation varies). |
| Structure | Facilitated meetings with tools and discussion. | Meetings, sponsorship, literature; strong in-person and online traditions. |
| Online access | Online meetings and resources; verify listings on official SMART sites. | Large online meeting ecosystem; formats vary by group. |
| Clinical care | Neither replaces medical detox, medication when indicated, therapy, or emergency services. | |
Neither replaces treatment when you need it
Mutual-aid meetings complement recovery but are not licensed treatment. Withdrawal risk and co-occurring conditions require clinical assessment. Crisis: 911 or 988 (U.S.).
How to choose
- Secular vs spiritual framing
- Tools and worksheets (SMART) vs steps and sponsorship (AA)
- Try different meetings if the first does not fit
Common questions
Can I do SMART and AA?
Some people use more than one path over time. Focus on stability and values.
Are online AA meetings real AA?
Widely used; formats vary. See official AA resources for current guidance.
How Sobio fits
Sobio is licensed virtual outpatient care (therapy plus coaching), not a fellowship. Book a free 15-minute assessment to discuss fit.