When I was court-ordered to attend a 12-step program back in 2003, I knew within a meeting or two that it wasn't for me. The entire program is based on religion, on finding and trusting your so-called "higher power." The only requirement–a desire to stop using drugs or alcohol–wasn't something I was willing to lie about. And most importantly, it was based on the disease model. And I didn't have a disease.

Despite insisting addiction is a disease, the treatment offered by 12-step programs involves confession, prayer, pretending a higher power is in control of your life, and sitting in group sessions where others share their issues. None of these is treatment for a medical condition. 

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