A 12-step program for addiction treatment is one of the most well-known treatment programs in the U.S. and the basis for the Alcoholics Anonymous program. It was originally intended for men with alcohol addiction, but today there are many variations of the original program that treat a number of addictions for men and women. A 12-step program provides a recovery experience centered around peer support and the belief that God or a higher power is essential to healing.
At Crestview Recovery, we work with individuals who are struggling with an addiction to alcohol, cocaine, meth, or other addictive substances. We offer several therapeutic options, including 12-step programs, dual diagnosis programs, medication-assisted treatment, and many others. Each program is tailored to the individual’s symptoms and includes a mix of group and private therapy sessions. If you want more information about our 12-step rehab program, use our online form to ask some questions or call 866.262.0531 to speak with our team.
What Is a 12-Step Program for Addiction Recovery?
The origins of 12-step programs began in 1938 when Bill Wilson began writing down his experiences with alcoholism and how he was able to recover. As originally conceived, it has heavy religious undertones, and one of the first steps includes giving yourself over to God or a Higher Power to begin healing. This program is ideal for those with substance use disorders as well as behavioral addictions such as gambling and sex addictions.
A 12-step rehab program for addiction treatment includes the following steps:
- Admit that you are powerless over your addiction and need help recovering.
- The belief that God or a Higher Power, in any kind of form, can help you reach your goals.
- Make the decision to give yourself over to that Higher Power.
- Take a personal or moral inventory of your life.
- Admitting to yourself, the Higher Power, and others of your wrongdoings.
- Be ready to accept help from the Higher Power to fix character flaws and shortcomings.
- Ask the Higher Power to remove character flaws and shortcomings.
- Make a list of people you have hurt through addiction, and be willing to make amends for your actions.
- Reach out to those you have wronged unless doing so causes you and them further harm.
- Continue to take a personal and moral inventory and admit to any new mistakes, bad behaviors, or relapses.
- Practice prayer and meditation to seek enlightenment and a deeper connection to God or self.
- Assist others who are struggling with addiction and walk with them through their 12-step journey.
At Crestview Recovery, our 12-step program for addiction treatment has helped hundreds of people reach their recovery goals. During admissions, we will discuss all treatment options with you and place you in the appropriate program that is right for your recovery journey.
The Benefits of a 12-Step Program for Addiction Treatment
Are you looking for a more religious or spiritual recovery experience? If so, a 12-step program for addiction recovery may be the best choice. Here are some of the benefits of participating in a 12-step program for addiction treatment:
- A deeper connection to God, a Higher Power, or self
- A better understanding of addiction and the damage it can do to the person and their loved ones
- Work with a group of peers who are on the same journey to recovery in a comforting and trusting environment
- Build close relationships with your peers for continual support whenever needed
- Increases motivation to lead a sober and healthy lifestyle
- Increases the potential to repair personal and family relationships through making amends
These are just a few of the benefits of enrolling in a 12-step rehab program for addiction recovery. As clients progress through the program, they will begin noticing improvements in other areas of their lives and feel more confident in maintaining their sobriety.
Enroll in a 12-Step Rehab Program at Crestview Recovery
Crestview Recovery is a full-service addiction treatment facility that serves Portland-area residents who are struggling with addiction to alcohol, heroin, cocaine, or other dangerous substances. Our 12-step program for addiction treatment is just one of several therapy options that we offer. Other types of therapies and treatments we provide include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Medication-assisted treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Family therapy/counseling
To learn more about our 12-step and other addiction recovery programs, call 866.262.0531 today to speak with one of our knowledgeable team members.

Since 2016, Dr. Merle Williamson, a graduate of Oregon Health Sciences University, has been the Medical Director at Crestview Recovery, bringing a rich background in addiction medicine from his time at Hazelden Treatment Center. He oversees outpatient drug and alcohol treatments, providing medical care, setting policies, detox protocols, and quality assurance measures. Before specializing in addiction medicine, he spent 25 years in anesthesiology, serving as Chair of Hospital Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee and Chief of Anesthesia at Kaiser Permanente. This experience gives him a unique perspective on treating prescription drug addiction.