Key Takeaways
- Support groups provide essential peer connection and accountability for long-term recovery
- Multiple meeting types exist to fit different recovery philosophies and preferences
- Ventura offers extensive meeting schedules for AA, NA, and alternative recovery groups
- Support groups complement professional treatment and are not a replacement for clinical care
- Family members benefit from their own support groups like Al-Anon and Nar-Anon
The Power of Peer Support in Recovery
Recovery from addiction is not a solo journey. Research consistently shows that individuals who engage in peer support groups alongside professional treatment have significantly better long-term outcomes than those who rely on treatment alone. Support groups provide something that clinical treatment cannot fully replicate: the lived experience of others who have walked the same path and emerged into recovery.
Ventura, the county seat and a vibrant coastal city, offers a robust recovery community with numerous meeting options throughout the week. Whether you prefer the traditional 12-step approach of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous, the cognitive-behavioral framework of SMART Recovery, or other peer support models, Ventura has options to fit your needs and preferences.
This guide provides an overview of the major support group options available in Ventura and how they complement the professional treatment provided at facilities like Trust SoCal.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) in Ventura
Alcoholics Anonymous is the oldest and most widely available recovery support group, with roots dating back to 1935. AA follows a 12-step program that emphasizes spiritual growth, moral inventory, and mutual support. Meetings are free and open to anyone with a desire to stop drinking.
The Ventura area hosts dozens of AA meetings each week, spanning formats including open discussion, speaker meetings, Big Book study, and step study. Meetings are held at community centers, churches, hospitals, and clubhouses throughout the city and surrounding areas. Many meetings are also available online for those who prefer virtual attendance.
- Open meetings: Anyone interested in learning about AA is welcome
- Closed meetings: Limited to individuals who identify as having a desire to stop drinking
- Speaker meetings: One or more members share their recovery story
- Discussion meetings: Open dialogue on a topic related to recovery
- Big Book study: Group study of AA's foundational text
- Step study: Focused exploration of each of the 12 steps
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) in Ventura
Narcotics Anonymous follows a similar 12-step structure to AA but is focused on recovery from drug addiction of all types. NA meetings do not distinguish between specific substances, welcoming anyone struggling with any form of drug addiction. The Ventura area hosts multiple NA meetings weekly at various locations.
NA emphasizes that addiction is a disease that affects the whole person and that recovery is possible through working the 12 steps with the support of fellow members. Like AA, NA meetings are free and confidential.
SMART Recovery
SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) offers a science-based, secular alternative to 12-step programs. SMART Recovery uses cognitive behavioral techniques and motivational strategies to help participants manage addictive behaviors. The program is organized around four key points: building and maintaining motivation, coping with urges, managing thoughts and behaviors, and living a balanced life.
SMART Recovery meetings are available in the Ventura area and online. The program appeals to individuals who prefer a non-spiritual approach to recovery or who want to supplement their 12-step participation with additional tools and strategies.
- Science-based, self-empowerment approach to recovery
- No requirement for belief in a higher power
- Uses cognitive behavioral tools and motivational techniques
- Both in-person and online meetings available
- Open to individuals dealing with any addictive behavior
Family Support Groups
Addiction affects the entire family, and family members need their own support resources. Several organizations offer support groups specifically for the loved ones of individuals struggling with addiction.
- Al-Anon: Support for family members and friends of alcoholics
- Nar-Anon: Support for family members and friends of drug addicts
- CRAFT (Community Reinforcement and Family Training): Evidence-based approach helping families motivate loved ones to enter treatment
- Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACoA): Support for adults raised in alcoholic or dysfunctional homes
Family members do not need to wait for their loved one to enter treatment to seek their own support. Al-Anon and Nar-Anon meetings are available throughout Ventura County and can provide invaluable guidance and connection.
Integrating Support Groups with Professional Treatment
Support groups work best when combined with professional clinical treatment. At Trust SoCal, we encourage all clients to begin attending support group meetings during treatment and to establish a meeting schedule as part of their aftercare plan. Our clinical team helps clients identify which type of support group resonates with them and connects them with local meetings in their home community.
If you or a loved one in Ventura is ready to begin recovery, professional treatment combined with ongoing peer support provides the strongest foundation for lasting sobriety. Call Trust SoCal at (949) 280-8360 to discuss your treatment options.
Kristin Stevens, LCSW
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
