Using Creativity as a Tool in Sobriety
October 24, 2025
What’s Inside:
Recovery from substance abuse is a challenging journey, but it’s one that doesn’t have to be traveled alone. Many people find support, community, and guidance in anonymous meetings, which offer a safe and structured environment for those struggling with addiction. Whether you’re just beginning your recovery or have been on the path for some time, attending anonymous meetings can provide a vital source of encouragement and accountability. But what are the types of anonymous meetings available for substance abuse, and how can they help you?
One of the most well-known types of anonymous meetings is Alcoholics Anonymous, or AA. Established in 1935, AA is a fellowship of individuals who come together to support one another in overcoming alcohol addiction. Meetings are centered around the 12-step program, which encourages participants to take responsibility for their recovery, make amends for past wrongs, and maintain a spiritual approach to sobriety.
There are several types of AA meetings that you can attend, depending on your preferences:
Another one of the different types of anonymous meetings is Narcotics Anonymous (NA). Founded in 1953, NA was created for individuals who are addicted to drugs, including but not limited to narcotics. Like AA, NA uses a 12-step framework to guide individuals through the process of recovery.
NA meetings are structured similarly to AA, and participants often find that the format provides the same level of support and understanding. Whether you are dealing with addiction to prescription drugs, illicit substances, or a combination of both, NA offers a community that understands your struggles.
Cocaine Anonymous (CA) is another option within the realm of types of anonymous meetings. CA is designed specifically for individuals who are battling cocaine addiction. However, it also welcomes those struggling with addiction to other substances. CA also uses the 12-step program as a foundation for recovery and focuses heavily on peer support and the importance of community in maintaining sobriety.
Like AA and NA, CA holds both open and closed meetings, step meetings, and speaker meetings. The meetings offer a space for individuals to share their experiences and gain strength from hearing others’ stories of recovery.
For individuals specifically struggling with methamphetamine addiction, Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA) provides specialized support. Like other types of anonymous meetings, CMA is a fellowship of people who share their experiences to help one another recover from addiction. CMA meetings are open to anyone seeking help for methamphetamine abuse and are structured around the 12 steps.
CMA provides a non-judgmental environment where individuals can openly discuss their experiences with methamphetamine use and how it has impacted their lives. The community aspect of CMA is one of the most powerful tools in helping individuals find hope and motivation to stay sober.
Marijuana addiction is often overlooked, but for those who struggle with dependency on the substance, Marijuana Anonymous (MA) offers a safe space to seek help. MA follows the same 12-step program as other anonymous groups, but its focus is on supporting individuals who are ready to stop using marijuana.
In MA meetings, participants discuss their experiences with marijuana addiction, the challenges they face in recovery, and the tools they use to stay clean. These meetings are especially valuable for those who have been using marijuana for many years and find it difficult to quit despite its growing social acceptance.
While the types of anonymous meetings mentioned so far are focused on those struggling with substance abuse, it’s important to recognize the impact addiction has on loved ones as well. Al-Anon and Nar-Anon are meetings specifically designed for friends and family members of those struggling with alcoholism and drug addiction, respectively.
These meetings offer a supportive environment where loved ones can share their experiences and feelings, learn how to cope with the challenges of supporting someone in recovery, and gain insights into how addiction affects relationships.
While not an anonymous meeting in the traditional sense, SMART Recovery is an alternative to the 12-step model for those looking for a different approach to substance abuse treatment. SMART stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training and uses evidence-based techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help individuals manage their cravings, change destructive behaviors, and maintain sobriety.
SMART Recovery meetings are open to anyone struggling with addiction and offer a structured, science-based approach to overcoming substance abuse. The meetings are focused on self-empowerment and offer tools that individuals can apply in their daily lives to achieve and sustain recovery.
Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA) is another option within the types of anonymous meetings, specifically designed for individuals who are dealing with both substance abuse and mental health disorders. DRA follows a similar 12-step model but emphasizes the importance of addressing both issues simultaneously for a successful recovery.
DRA meetings provide a space for people who are managing mental health challenges alongside addiction to share their experiences and offer support to others facing the same dual-diagnosis struggles.
There are many different types of anonymous meetings available to support individuals on their recovery journey, each tailored to specific types of substance abuse and personal preferences. Whether you’re looking for types of AA meetings or exploring alternatives like NA, CA, or SMART Recovery, there’s a group out there that can offer you the community and support you need.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your recovery journey and need guidance on finding the right support group, reach out to Uplift Recovery. Our experienced team is here to help you find the resources and programs that can assist you in achieving long-term sobriety. Contact us at 866-979-5848 to learn more about our treatment options and support services.
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Please complete the form below for Insurance Verification. Our Admissions team will get back to you shortly.
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept Medicare or Medi-Cal at this time.
Confidential | Cost Free | No Obligations
