The SMART Recovery Host Training Program is delivered through the SMART Recovery Host Portal. Register today to get started.
Becoming a SMART Recovery host is a rewarding experience, enabling individuals to empower others on their journey to recovery from addictive and problem behaviours. By leading structured, science-informed meetings, hosts play a pivotal role in fostering an environment of self-empowerment, resilience, and community support.
The path to becoming a host is thoughtfully designed, ensuring that each host is well-prepared and confident in their role.
This journey involves three essential steps:
- completing an online training course.
- gaining real-life experience through co-hosting.
- and officially registering your own SMART Recovery Meeting.
Once certified you’ll also join a global community of SMART Recovery Hosts running over 2,500 SMART Meetings.
Here’s a closer look at each step:
Step 1: Learn the Theory Through the Host Skills Online Training Course
The first step in becoming a SMART Recovery host is completing the Host Skills Online Training Course. This foundational training introduces prospective hosts to the key principles and techniques used in SMART Recovery. Grounded in evidence-based practices, SMART Recovery incorporates concepts from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and other scientifically validated approaches.
During the course, participants learn the essential tools and methods for facilitating effective meetings. These include the 4-Point Program, which focuses on building and maintaining motivation, coping with urges, managing thoughts and behaviors, and living a balanced life. Additionally, the training emphasises critical communication skills, such as active listening, guiding discussions, and creating a non-judgmental space for participants.
The online format allows trainees to work at their own pace, making the course accessible for individuals with busy schedules. By the end of this step, prospective hosts gain a strong theoretical foundation, equipping them to engage participants in meaningful discussions about recovery.
Step 2: Get Real-Life Experience Through Co-Hosting Live Meetings
After completing the online training, the next step is gaining hands-on experience through co-hosting live meetings. This phase bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, giving prospective hosts the opportunity to observe and participate in real meetings.
Co-hosting alongside an experienced facilitator provides invaluable insight into how meetings flow, how to handle different participant dynamics, and how to navigate common challenges that may arise during discussions. It also allows new hosts to practice their skills in a supportive environment, with the guidance of seasoned mentors.
This step builds confidence as trainees transition from learning in a structured course to interacting with real participants. By actively engaging in meetings, prospective hosts learn how to adapt SMART Recovery’s tools to meet the diverse needs of their group members.
Step 3: Register Your SMART Recovery Meeting
The final step in the journey is registering your own meeting, marking the official beginning of your role as a SMART Recovery host. With the support of the training team, hosts receive guidance on selecting a suitable meeting format—whether online or in-person—and promoting their meetings to the local community.
This step ensures that new hosts feel supported as they take on full responsibility for facilitating recovery meetings. The training team provides resources to help with logistics, such as setting up meeting agendas, handling administrative tasks, and addressing any questions or concerns. By the end of this step, hosts are fully prepared to create a welcoming and effective environment for participants.
Get Started on Your Host Training Journey
Becoming a SMART Recovery host is a transformative journey that combines education, hands-on experience, and mentorship. Each step in the process—learning the theory, co-hosting live meetings, and registering your meeting—ensures that hosts are well-prepared to provide meaningful support to those in recovery. By dedicating themselves to this journey, hosts not only help others achieve their goals but also grow personally as leaders and facilitators. If you’re passionate about making a difference, becoming a SMART Recovery host is a path worth exploring.