> > Date: Sat, 24 Feb 1996 12:47:25 -0500 > From: Michael Davids <[log in to unmask]> > Subject: Re: Alcoholics Anonymous > > In regards to A.A., does anyone have any info on the > group *Rational Recovery* which is far more liberal > and less religious than A.A. Thanx, MD:) > > ------------------------------ > *********************************************** > There is a "movement" called Rational Recovery which is promoted by its founder, Jack Trimpey, as an alternative to AA. Although the outcome goal for participants is the same (i.e., abstinence), and the importance of group support is retained, the proposed steps to recovery are different. Trimpey uses an RET (Rational Emotive Therapy, based on Albert Ellis's work) approach vs. the your-life-is-unmanageable approach and higher-power approach proposed by AA. Trimpey has written a book, The Small Book, Delacorte Press, 1989, that explains his approach. His book is not well-written (for example, it is often redundant and boring and there is no obvious reason why this approach endorses abstinence a priori); however, the approach using RET is clearly different than AA. One may also write to Trimpey at Rational Recovery Systems, Lotus Press, Box 800, Lotus, CA. 95651 for more information. I hope this is helpful in your search for more info. on RR. Harold Rosenberg ([log in to unmask]) Professor and Director, Training Clinic Psychology Department Bowling Green State University Bowling Green, OH 43403 Telephone: (419) 372-2540 FAX: (419) 372-6013