From Self-Help to Professional Care

Abstract

The process of an enhanced application of the spiritual self-help 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous in a professional counseling approach is described. Two integrated enhancements are outlined. The first is the enhancement of the addressed problem as applied by several 12-step self-help groups. Assuming a three-dimensional view of human existence—physical, mental and spiritual—it is argued that a more far-reaching program is obtained when the problem is defined as originating primarily in the mental dimension, but the most inclusive 12-step program may be defined by emphasizing the problem’s definition as originating in the spiritual dimension. Second is the program’s expansion from self-help to professional practice. Although in the past this trend derived mainly from the addiction-treatment field, it is argued that professionals can practice a more inclusive 12-step program called Grace Therapy. Basic assumptions of this program as reflecting a theory of applied spirituality are outlined and supported by clinical illustrations.

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