New Jersey Support Groups for Recovery

As you begin your recovery journey, it may seem overwhelming trying to find the best support for your needs, especially if you are attempting to navigate through different types of resources alone. A support group or recovery meeting connects you to peer support, shared experiences, and practical strategies that can help you maintain sobriety and mental wellness as you transition back into your everyday life after treatment.

New Jersey has a vast number of support groups available weekly (a few examples of the available support networks include 12-Step Recovery Groups, evidence-based recovery alternatives, family support networks, and a variety of mental health-focused support networks). At New Jersey Behavioral Health Center, we recognize that support and recovery extend beyond what occurs in a traditional clinical treatment setting – which is why we provide an ongoing connection between our clients and local communities, as well as connect them to peer support resources.

Why It’s Important to Participate in Support Groups While in Recovery

Through peer support, we create connections with others who are experiencing the same challenges we face on a daily basis – this creates connections with people who truly understand what we are going through because they are living through it at the same time we are.

The accountability these groups provide allows the individuals who attend to celebrate their successes together, give guidance and offer encouragement during difficult times, and serve as reminders that it is possible to sustain their recovery.

Statistically, individuals who participate in support groups in conjunction with clinical treatment have a higher chance of successfully maintaining a life of recovery and statistically have a lower chance of relapse compared to individuals who are only involved in clinical treatment. Because of the consistent accountability and strategies for success provided by these groups, they help fill the gaps between weekly therapy appointments.

Typically, support groups are peer-led, and many do not charge any fee; however, clinical group therapy sessions are facilitated by licensed professionals in a clinical setting and address specific therapeutic goals. There are many benefits to participating in both support groups and clinical groups simultaneously.

What Kinds Of Support Groups or Recovery Meetings Are Currently Available In New Jersey?

Addiction Recovery Meetings

The most widely available peer support recovery group in New Jersey is Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), which has meetings held seven days a week in every county in New Jersey. Each meeting is based on a 12-Step Recovery Program, which involves structure, sponsorship opportunities, and fellowship.

Meetings can be composed of varied formats, including speaker meetings (where a person shares their recovery journey) and discussion meetings (where members discuss their individual experiences).

At the request of individuals seeking a recovery support group based on the 12-Step Program and who are struggling with drug addiction, Narcotics Anonymous was established. Narcotics Anonymous (NA) provides multiple meeting formats for addicts to support other addicts.

SMART Recovery provides an alternative to the 12-Step Recovery Model that includes evidence-based techniques, using self-empowerment, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and practical tools for addressing cravings. SMART Recovery has several in-person/virtual meeting options available for individuals who prefer a science-based, non-spiritual approach.

There are several other 12-Step groups that focus on specific substances, such as Marijuana Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, and Heroin Anonymous.

Family and Loved Ones’ Support

Al-Anon and Nar-Anon are programs for friends and family members impacted by substance use disorders. Al-Anon and Nar-Anon members understand that an individual’s substance use disorder impacts an entire family unit; therefore, members provide educational information about the disease of addiction, strategies for creating and implementing healthy boundaries, and emotional support for family members who are navigating the same challenges that the individual with the substance use disorder is experiencing.

NJConnect for Recovery has peer support resources and educational programming specifically tailored to the needs of families within New Jersey. NJConnect for Recovery continues to connect families to recovery resources and support, and provide them with information regarding how to connect with others experiencing the same challenges.

 

Mental Health Support Groups

The Mental Health Association of New Jersey (MHANJ) supports various mental health support groups and offers educational programming to assist individuals suffering from mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and many others.

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) New Jersey also supports peer support groups. These support groups are facilitated by peers and are catered to support individuals within specific populations (e.g., LGBTQ+, focusing on young adults and individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds). NAMI New Jersey’s support groups focus on education, de-stigmatization, and members’ advocacy for their mental health needs.

Many behavioral health providers offer clinician-facilitated group therapy (e.g., grief therapy, relapse prevention, and co-occurring conditions).

Online Recovery Groups

Many support groups and recovery organizations are now utilizing a combination approach by providing participants with a virtual option of attending through technology. By doing so, organizations are increasing access for individuals who have transportation issues, physical disabilities, or caregiving responsibilities. Online support groups provide confidentiality and instant access to support through technology.

For some individuals, participating in online support group meetings may be an opportunity to supplement their in-person support group attendance, providing users with the flexibility of meeting face-to-face with other support group members while attending online meetings for their convenience.

Where To Find Recovery Meetings In New Jersey

Dedicated Directories and Search Tools

The AA and NA have established online meeting finder directories. Both have search functionality that includes county, city, day of the week, time of the day, and type of meeting.

The AA and NA online meeting finder directories provide users with complete meeting formats, accessibility information, and options for virtual attendance. Most meetings are welcoming of newcomers and do not require pre-registration.

The SMART Recovery Meeting Finder also provides the same search functionality for in-person group meetings across New Jersey and worldwide for participants attending online SMART Recovery group meetings.

The NJ Self-Help Group Clearinghouse has established an online database that contains a statewide listing of support groups in New Jersey for addiction recovery, mental health, grieving, chronic illnesses, and numerous other issues related to mental and physical well-being.

State & Community Resources

ReachNJ Peer Recovery Centers are structured throughout New Jersey to provide peer support, general wellness, and group meetings in supportive and safe settings with others who are going through the recovery process.

The NJ Connect For Recovery Helpline provides telephonic support to help individuals find recovery meetings in their area based on their location, availability, and preferences. Trained staff can explain different types of meetings and respond to questions.

Local treatment facilities, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations maintain county and municipal calendars of recovery resources. By researching specific counties’ resources, you may be able to find smaller meetings and specialized groups.

Virtual Meeting Considerations

When exploring virtual meetings online, research time zones when attending a national group, verify what type of platform is used for virtual meetings, and read the confidentiality policies. Balancing online access and in-person community can be accomplished by participating in virtual meetings during busy weeks while prioritizing attendance at in-person meetings when possible.

How Can Support Groups Be Beneficial for Long-Term Success?

Emotional & Social Support

Meeting with others who share similar lived experiences eliminates feelings of isolation. In support groups, you meet individuals who understand cravings and triggers, as well as support by not asking you to give lengthy explanations. Watching others succeed in their long-term recovery helps foster hope and shows that it is possible to overcome challenges.

Accountability and Routine

Regularly attending meetings can create habits that will support your recovery. Knowing you will see familiar faces at least once each week holds you accountable for attending and being honest with the members of the group about your issues. Regularly attending meetings will create stability for your early recovery period when your life feels chaotic.

Practical Tools & Recovery Strategies

Members of support groups will share practical experience and real-world strategies they used in dealing with cravings; how they handle stress from work and their relationships without the use of substances; how to form new relationships, etc. These shared experiences are usually more relevant than clinical advice because they were learned through the experience and testing of the members’ own lives.

The Connection Beyond Recovery

Support groups will also connect you with a much larger recovery community. You will develop friendships, be provided with a sponsor who will guide you on a personal basis, and have opportunities to engage in social and sober events that promote connections and new patterns of relationships. These connections provide a foundation needed to pursue a recovery lifestyle.

Tips for First-Time Attendees

Your first meeting(s) may seem like an overwhelming experience. However, most support group meetings will openly welcome you as a newcomer. Meetings usually begin with the reading of the purpose of a group and its guidelines, followed by the opportunity for members to share. While you are never obligated to share, just listening is perfectly acceptable.

Choose groups that meet your goals by attending various types of meetings (i.e., different formats, large vs small groups, spiritual vs secular, etc.). Some individuals may discover that different types of meetings are better suited for their needs at different times.

You may want to inquire about group membership confidentiality, whether the meeting is open to any member or closed after a period of time, typical time commitments, and how to become a sponsor. Most meetings will provide members with written confirmation of their confidentiality obligations.

When to Combine Support Groups with Clinical Care

Support groups may be a complementary addition to the treatment, but not a replacement for treatment, in cases of more severe substance use disorders and for those who have a co-occurring mental health disorder. Intensive outpatient programs will provide a structured and therapeutic intervention using the expertise of an experienced recovery specialist and therapist.

At New Jersey Behavioral Health Center, our Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program provides a focused approach to therapy while creating a detailed recovery plan for the client. The client will benefit from having their therapy and psychiatrist engaged individually in working together as the most effective way to recover from the effects of substance use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of support groups are available in New Jersey?

New Jersey has many different types of support groups available, including twelve-step programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA); SMART Recovery programs; Al-Anon and Nar-Anon groups for the family members; and mental health support through the Mental Health Association of New Jersey (MHANJ) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness – New Jersey (NAMI NJ).

Where can I find recovery meetings?

Recovery group meetings can be located through the AA and NA respective websites. A link to these websites will provide access to the SMART Recovery website, and through the New Jersey Self-Help Group Clearinghouse. Resources within the state of New Jersey also include the ReachNJ Peer Recovery Center and the NJ Connect For Recovery Helpline.

How often are recovery meetings held?

Recovery meetings traditionally take place once per week; however, many areas have recovery meetings that are available on a daily basis. Some individuals who are newly recovered may attend more than one recovery meeting on a weekly basis, while others may attend one or two meetings a week.

Is a referral required to attend support groups?

Most support groups do not require you to have a referral or a formal enrollment process in order to attend a meeting. You can attend a support group simply by arriving at the meeting at the listed time and place.

Are support groups effective for long-term recovery?

Research has shown that individuals who have participated in a support group in conjunction with clinical treatment will have better outcomes and will be less likely to relapse. Support groups provide support, create community connections, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide the accountability necessary to maintain your sobriety.

What is the main difference between AA and SMART Recovery?

AA is a spiritual 12-step program that supports members through fellowship and sponsorship. SMART Recovery utilizes cognitive-behavioral (evidence-based) methods and information that support members in creating their own practical and realistic plan to maintain recovery. Both are successful; however, what will work for you will depend on what means the most to you personally.

Can loved ones attend recovery meetings?

Yes. Al-Anon and Nar-Anon have recovery meetings specifically designed for loved ones affected by someone’s drug or alcohol use. In addition to these recovery meetings, many treatment centers provide family education, support, and treatment.