12-step programs
12-step organizations are the largest and most widely accessible mutual-help recovery organizations. They are available in communities around the world.
Learn about 12-step programs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, and Marijuana Anonymous.

Faith-based recovery
Celebrate Recovery is the largest and most well-known Christian-based recovery support organization. It supports individuals not only with substance use but with other behavioural challenges as well.
Learn more about Celebrate Recovery.
There are also programs that are based on traditional Buddhist philosophy and related mindfulness teachings.
Learn more about Recovery Dharma and Eight Step Recovery.

Gender-specific recovery
Established in 1975, Women for Sobriety is the first peer-support program tailored specifically for women with substance use issues.
Learn more about Women for Sobriety.

Indigenous recovery
Founded in the U.S. but active across Canada, the Wellbriety Movement integrates culturally based healing philosophies and practices with 12-step principles.
Learn more about the Wellbriety Movement.

Moderation Management
Although not in wide use, Moderation Management is an evidence-based recovery approach that promotes early self-recognition of problematic drinking behaviour with successful moderate drinking as the goal.
Learn more about Moderation Management.

Secular programs
With their intentional focus on non-spiritual aspects of addiction recovery, secular mutual-help organizations are often seen as an alternative to 12-step recovery.
Learn more about secular programs such as LifeRing and SMART Recovery.

Support groups for family members
Some programs focus on supporting family members of people using substances or in recovery to develop their own healing journeys.
Learn more about Al-Anon and Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA) Canada.