Review of AA Not the Only Way: Your One Stop Resource Guide to 12-Step Alternatives, by Melanie Solomon

In terms of outpatient options for alcohol abuse and dependence, the “12-step” program of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the most widely recognized and longstanding approach to recovery. One can find AA meetings in almost every town, treatment centers typically base their regimens on the 12 steps, and courts often mandate regular AA meeting attendance as a condition of probation or in exchange for a reduced penalty for drug and alcohol offenses.

AA has undoubtedly facilitated recovery and growth for thousands of people and deserves credit for its success. Its combined emphasis on abstinence and mentorship is the ideal formula for many, as well as a safe place to build a network that supports sobriety.

In spite of the benefits of AA, no single approach to recovery is universally effective. AA Not the Only Way: Your One Stop Resource Guide to 12-Step Alternatives, by Melanie Solomon, introduces readers to AA alternatives so that they can find a treatment solution that fits their distinctive needs. The book includes three key features not found elsewhere: an extensive list of alternatives, simple descriptions of each option, and contact information for providers and agencies who offer these services.

Previously, because 12-step programs reign in the addiction and recovery community, people who seek help may not realize that other options exist. Thanks to this reference guide, consumers can explore a range of choices that span the philosophical gamut from abstinence to moderation, and from cognitive-behavioral therapy to wellness practices like acupuncture, hypnotherapy, and yoga.

Solomon’s book potentially opens up a whole new world for those who have felt uneasy about certain aspects of AA and the 12 steps. Potential misgivings include the following: 1) the program does not address the underlying causes of alcoholism; 2) total abstinence is undesirable; 3) the need to identify a “higher power” does not resonate with one’s belief system; or 4) meetings encourage dependency rather than self-reliance. For such individuals, cognitive-behavioral, harm reduction/moderation, or body-centered options might be a better fit.

As an example, Solomon explains that she felt blamed and labeled as a failure when she didn’t connect with 12-step principles. Moreover, she found that AA did nothing to address her co-occurring mental health issues (bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD). Here, she offers a comprehensive guide for anyone who wishes to step outside of the 12-step paradigm. Her accessible coverage of treatment models and providers is a valuable resource both for those seeking addictions help and treatment professionals alike.

AA Not the Only Way covers a lot of ground—perhaps too much for one volume. The extent of information included in the book may explain its condensed typestyle and format, which for me made the text unattractive and cumbersome to read. Also, there are moments when Solomon’s personal commentary or biases may turn some readers off. Therefore, I advise readers to regard this and all self-help material with a healthy dose of skepticism, and to focus on the positive ways you can learn and benefit from this book.

Despite its limitations, the book’s negative qualities are outweighed by its positive ones. The condensed format permits the inclusion of a wide range of practical information, and despite my complaints about the crowded text I commend the author for adding holistic approaches to recovery in this second edition. As for any bias that comes across, Solomon’s opinionated slant seems rooted in genuine personal investment in the topic and desire to help her audience.

Because alternatives to 12-step programs are so often ignored or unknown, I applaud Solomon’s efforts to educate the public. Although I did not care for some elements of the book, I firmly believe that Solomon’s reference guide advances the next wave of addictions treatment and facilitates awareness of the many paths to recovery. I hope that by understanding the possibilities, readers will experience a renewed sense of freedom, ownership, and commitment to their treatment of choice.

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To learn more about AA Not the Only Way: Your One Stop Resource Guide to 12-Step Alternatives by Melanie Solomon or to order the book, visit the book and author website or Amazon.com.