SMART Recovery — Free SMART Recovery Addiction Peer Group — Charlotte
SMART Recovery (Self-Management And Recovery Training) is a free, peer-facilitated, evidence-based mutual support program for people working through addictive behaviors. The Charlotte area has several recurring SMART meetings listed in the national meeting directory, including a dedicated Family & Friends meeting for loved ones of someone with addiction.
What to Expect
One-hour facilitated meetings built around SMART’s 4-Point Program: building motivation, coping with urges, managing thoughts/feelings/behaviors, and living a balanced life. Meetings use cognitive-behavioral tools and rational-emotive techniques. No higher power required, no labels (such as “addict” or “alcoholic”) used, and no sponsorship requirement.
Charlotte Meeting Schedule
Multiple weekly meetings rotate across Charlotte-area locations. Notable recurring options include a Wednesday late-evening meeting and a Sunday evening Family & Friends meeting (9:00–10:30 PM) for loved ones of someone with addictive behavior. A SMART Recovery meeting is also held at UNC Charlotte’s campus. The full Charlotte schedule lives on the SMART Recovery meeting finder at meetings.smartrecovery.org — search by Charlotte ZIP code.
Who This Group Is For
Adults working through alcohol use, drug use, gambling, problematic eating, smoking, or other addictive behaviors. People at any stage — considering change, early recovery, or sustained recovery. Family and friends of someone with addiction can attend SMART Family & Friends meetings, including the Sunday evening Charlotte group.
Why Peer Support Works
SMART meetings combine peer connection with evidence-based cognitive-behavioral tools, giving attendees both community and concrete skills. Many people use SMART alongside 12-step programs or instead of them; the approach is non-religious, non-spiritual, and emphasizes self-empowerment over powerlessness.
How to Join
Walk in to any meeting — no registration, dues, or intake. Find current Charlotte meetings at meetings.smartrecovery.org (filter by Charlotte ZIP). Virtual SMART meetings are also available 24/7 if no local meeting fits your schedule.