Self-help groups have a long history and can help enhance individual treatment and recovery. Members in self-help groups share a common issue, concern, or condition and provide help and support for one another. The emotional support and comradery promote a feeling of understanding and a sense of belonging. Membership into self-help groups is often free or a small fee or donation.
You can find a wide variety of self-help support groups that focus on mental health concerns, illness, and drug and alcohol addiction. Many of these groups value anonymity so members can feel safe to express and share experiences with the group. Although not a replacement for therapy or treatment, self-help organizations or support groups can have many positive effects for men and women struggling with addiction or emotional issues.
Self-Help in Santa Rosa, CA
We know Santa Rosa for its cultural amenities and beautiful weather and scenery. As the largest city in the North Bay area, people can find a number of self-help groups in Santa Rosa. Below, you can find a list of some of the self-help groups you can find in the area.
Interlink Self-Help Center
Interlink Self-Help Center is a peer support group for those 18 years or older. Membership is free, and the group offers classes, workshops, meetings, and outings for those challenged with mental health issues. Interlink also addresses addiction. A certified alcohol and drug counselor facilities in-person and online meetings.
The Wellness and Advocacy Center
The Wellness and Advocacy Center is a non-profit mental health self-help center and offers virtual support group meetings, a warmline, peer support, work experience programs, computer lab, and art program. Membership is free.
Alcoholics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), is a longstanding fellowship of men and women. Membership is free and open to anyone with a desire to stop drinking. AA meetings in Santa Rosa are in-person and online, and take place at various locations, such as the Franklin Clubhouse, Community of Christ Church, Julliard Park, and Star of the Valley Church. Times vary and multiple meetings take place every day.
Smart Recovery
Smart Recovery is a newer model for addiction recovery support. They center their approach around 4 points to bring awareness and change. Trained SMART Recovery persons facilitate meetings. Many of the current meetings meet online, with a few in-person. Like AA, you can find a selection of meeting times each day.
Women for Sobriety
Women for Sobriety was founded by Jean Kirkpatrick, Ph.D in 1975 to address the unique needs of women struggling with Alcohol Use Disorder. A departure from traditional recovery programs, her program addresses the emotional needs and coping mechanisms so common in women who misuse drugs and/or alcohol. While there are currently no meetings in the Santa Rosa area, you can receive phone support, join the WFS online community, purchase a copy of the program, and listen to the podcast, Soberful.
Narcotics Anonymous
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is a nonprofit fellowship for men and women struggling with drug addiction. Using the 12-step model, NA hosts regular meetings and is open to anyone. You can find NA meetings 7 days a week at various locations in and near Santa Rosa. Check the Narcotics Website for the most up-to-date meeting times.
Dual Recovery Anonymous
Dual Recovery Anonymous is a self-help community organization for men and women struggling with drug/or alcohol addiction and mental illness. Anyone who wishes to stop using alcohol and/or drugs and a desire to manage mental illness can be a member. Santa Rosa meetings take place at the Interlink Self-Help Center each Wednesday and Friday.
YMCA of Sonoma County
YWCA of Sonoma County provides a wealth of services for women living in abusive environments. Support groups cover topics such as substance abuse, co-dependence, and domestic violence red flags and safety planning. They also provide one-on-one therapy on a sliding scale.
2-1-1 Sonoma County
2-1-1 Sonoma County is a free United Way program offering information and referrals. Although not a support group, 2-1-1 can connect you with local resources and programs for a variety of needs, including substance abuse, crisis services, housing services, mental health, and legal assistance.
Find Support a Close-knit Community
Community support organizations can complement the recovery journey at any stage. If you or a loved one needs additional support and treatment for drug and/or alcohol addiction, contact Pura Vida Recovery Services in Santa Rosa for a complimentary assessment.
