Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the most widely used organization for the treatment of alcoholism. AA's philosophy has changed how many people view themselves and their substance use. The majority of substance abuse programs in the United States use the 12 steps, either by making them the basis of their treatment program, or by introducing AA to…

The self-help movement currently sweeping the country has implications for health educators, school nurses, and counselors in particular. Despite the availability and reported success of self-help groups in assisting individuals with almost every imaginable condition, the referral value of this resource remains largely unrecognized and untapped by…

This overview of peer counseling and self-help groups in contemporary higher education examines current practices and offers recommendations for program development. Section I looks at the historical background and current context of campus peer counseling and social support programs; types and functions of self-help groups; student…