SMART Recovery Program at SOBA NJ

We Offer Several Different Recovery Programs That Align With Your Preferences

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We Offer Several Different Recovery Programs That Align With Your Preferences

Written by Brian Chasin

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Jeffery Berman, MD

Posted On: Nov 13, 2025Last Updated On: Nov 13, 2025Medical Review On: Nov 13, 2025

Table of Contents

What Is Smart Recovery and How Does It Work?

SMART Recovery stands for Self-Management and Recovery Training and is a treatment framework or toolbox based on scientific knowledge about healing, treatment, and recovery.[1] It’s a nonprofit, abstinence-based recovery program for anyone navigating substance use or co-occurring disorders.

As the science evolves, so will the framework. Founded on the principles of motivational interviewing, Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), SMART Recovery utilizes techniques and approaches to facilitate behavior change.

This treatment intervention emphasizes four specific areas, also known as the 4-Point Program, in the process of recovery:

Building and Maintaining Motivation: Cultivating personal, intrinsic motivation for behavior change and abstinence to build a life you can be proud of.
Coping with Urges: Learn coping skills to identify the urges and impulses that influence your desire to engage in problematic behaviors and how to navigate them safely.
Problem-Solving: Life is full of challenges, and learning how to see obstacles as a direction change rather than a setback is a life-changing skill.
Lifestyle Balance: Balance is one of the first things that suffers when struggling with alcohol or substance abuse. SMART Recovery equips you with the self-empowering skills to restore balance in all areas of life.

Using the themes and approaches of these reliable and evidence-based interventions, participants are equipped to systematically break down harmful patterns and establish new, healthy ones, promoting a balanced life. SMART Recovery sessions can be held both in-person and online.

Unlike the traditional 12-step programs, which comprise a significant number of self-help groups, SMART Recovery delves deeper. This approach to addiction recovery is beneficial as a stand-alone intervention as well as a supplemental program alongside Narcotics or Alcoholics Anonymous group meetings.

Our SMART Recovery Programs

At SOBA NJ, our SMART Recovery Meetings and support groups help you or your family members address harmful or addictive behaviors with proven, evidence-based interventions and strategies. Our expert facilitators help participants cultivate a strong sense of self-empowerment, self-reliance, and self-directed change.

Within the SMART Recovery community, you will also benefit from peer support as you build a life beyond addiction together. Many of the principles are self-driven and promote personal power of choice. Participants are free to go at their own pace while also benefiting from peer support and accountability.

What Does A SMART Recovery Meeting Look Like?

Each meeting will vary, depending on the scope of the addiction treatment program, but will likely follow a process similar to this:[2]

SMART Recovery meetings are typically 60-90 minute sessions, open to anyone within the SOBA NJ community.
The session begins with a welcome message from the facilitator and includes completing check-ins.
Anyone is free to share, even if it’s your first meeting; however, there’s no pressure to do so.
Using SMART Recovery tools and principles, participants will apply those concepts to the topics and scenarios being discussed. Some tools include Lifestyle Balance Pie, HOV: Hierarchy of Values, Urge Log, Vital Absorbing Creative Interests (VACI), and more.
Through discussion, mutual support, practice, and worksheets, participants learn new and reliable ways to navigate cravings, triggers, and challenges associated with drug or alcohol abuse.

Is SMART Recovery Effective?

Absolutely. It’s designed with other evidence-based principles as the foundational approach and blends them all for one highly effective intervention. The official source on SMART Recovery, SMARTRecovery.org, states that the percentage of days participants were abstinent increased from 44% to 72% in SMART groups after 3 months.[3] It’s rapidly developing into a gold standard of group treatment and recovery support for substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders.

See If SMART Recovery Is Right For You

At SOBA New Jersey, we understand that the recovery journey and healing experience are unique to each person. Our SMART Recovery Program is one option in a full spectrum of evidence-based therapies and holistic interventions.

Each modality we facilitate is designed to empower you to build on your strengths, cultivate resilience, and form meaningful connections with a peer support group. As you embark on this transformative journey with us, we’ll be there to support you every step of the way, guiding you toward a healthier, more fulfilling life free from the grips of addiction.

Frequently Asked Questions About Smart Recovery Programs

How Much Does SMART Recovery Cost?

Program costs will vary depending on the level of participation in the group. At SOBA NJ, our Smart Recovery Program is an integral part of our comprehensive addiction treatment landscape and is offered as part of our core curriculum for all levels of care, ranging from detoxification and inpatient treatment to outpatient services and telehealth. To learn more about treatment costs and verify your insurance coverage, please see the additional information here.

Does Alcoholics Anonymous Work?

Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous are well-established group programs that focus solely on the 12 steps and the “Big Book.” While these programs do generate success stories, SMART Recovery takes it a step further by incorporating a more therapeutic approach.

Should You Participate in a Support Group to Stop Drinking?

Absolutely. Attempting to recover from alcohol or substance abuse on your own can be highly challenging. Participating in a group enables you to learn from others who have taken sobriety seriously and achieved success. This is a powerful source of inspiration, motivation, and accountability.

How Does SMART Recovery Differ From Traditional 12-Step Programs?

Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous are, at their core, 12-step programs that are largely self-driven. SMART Recovery programs incorporate more evidence-based therapeutic interventions to support the recovery journey with practical tools, insight, and preparedness.

Get a Confidential Callback Now

To learn more about our addiction treatment center, contact us online or dial (888) 229-7989. We are available 24/7 to assist you. If you would like an immediate callback, fill out the form here.

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Hear From Our Recovering Clients

Read All Reviews

Absolutely the best place to build a solid foundation for my recovery.

Amazing & friendly community. Can’t say enough about the staff, EVERY tech, clinician & nursing are energetic, helpful, generous & welcoming. GROUPS are very educational. Delicious food made by talented chefs. If you’re struggling there is no better place to recover.

Tracy Ferrara

I went to SOBA’s residential and sober living program and it really helped me on my journey with recovery.

The facility was great and so were the people. Mike C in particular was so great, he was kind, compassionate and welcoming and he also kept it real with me which was exactly what I needed. Couldn’t recommend SOBA enough.

Kayleigh Wharton

This treatment facility is like no other, its extremely clean, very well organized, and the program they run attends to the clients needs.

At SOBA, its personal, and you are looked at as individuals rather than just a number. All the staff are amazing at what they do and take the extra time to make you feel at home. The techs that work here are top tier, and were the reason why I felt so at ease and hopeful for my future. Thank you!

John Marone

SOBA saved my life and brought the best out of me

The entire staff is amazing and they were all truly there for me at all times. They put you first and I am beyond grateful for the help and support I received. Thank you all for helping me rediscover myself. I couldn’t have done this without SOBA. Big Shoutout to Mike C for going out of his way to make the unthinkable happen for us all and putting us first.

Michael Lamboy

The staff and food were standouts!

Special thanks to everyone there especially Mike, Scott, Sid, James, Deal, Passion, Roshida, Jess, Augie, Andre, Nelson, Amy to name a few. Hopefully will never have to go back but if I do I would choose SOBA!

Tom Pohmer

SOBA NJ truly changed my life.

The techs and clinicians made me feel welcome from day one and helped me find hope again. Everyone there genuinely cares and goes above and beyond to support your recovery. I’m so grateful for everything they’ve done for me — I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. Big shout out to Mike C, Scott, Hov, Desi, Phil, Sam, and the rest of the team !

David Vazquez

When I first started going to SOBA to help with my drug addiction.

I knew right away that this place would change my life. SOBA has helped me in so many ways, and I am so thankful for the group of people I’ve met who are so kind and sweet to me and I love that they show that they care for one another. I highly recommend going to SOBA it will CHANGE YOUR LIFE

Ariel Meza

I’m forever grateful to you all.

“Entering recovery was one of the hardest decisions I have ever made. It was also one of the smartest, and one I wish that I had made 20 years ago. Last week I reached my 10-month clean date. I’d like to express my gratitude to the staff members who helped me along the way.”

Amanda S.

I will forever be grateful to SOBA.

The staff is truly amazing. They made the difference there and are the best people I have met they truly care about the people in the facility. Everyone does such an amazing job to help you to get to the other side. I will never forget that thank you!!!

Erica Kane

They SAVED MY LIFE. They can save yours.

“I came to them totally broken. The staff there helped me get my mental health straightened out, all while getting me off any and all drugs for the 1st time in 24 years. I’m able to say that I now have 152 days clean and sober.”

Jade B.

Words cannot even describe what SOBA has done for me.

“My life has made a 360 degree turn around for the best life I’ve ever experienced. I credit all the staff there. I am forever grateful to all of the SOBA staff and patients.”

Gary P.

SOBA rehab is a dedicated facility that helps you with addiction.

It’s program gave me the tools to help me in my recovery. The staff was amazing,and supportive. I was able to continue my treatment past detox on their campus next door. Housing was comfortable and once again the staff helped me transition in my program. They continue to help me in my process in recovery and I couldn’t be more thankful.

Alexis Habiger

The Help You Need Is Just a Phone Call Away.

Our Team Is Standing By 24/7 So You Can Start Your Recovery Journey

Reach Out Today

Your recovery starts with a phone call. Reach out to us today to speak to one of our admissions coordinators. Whether you are seeking help yourself, or you are concerned about a loved one, we are happy to answer your questions and address any concerns you may have. We will help you find the best treatment options that fit your personal needs, whether that’s our program or another. Our number one priority is making sure you find treatment that works for you.