When looking for alternatives to 12 step based programs and meetings, people often look for alternative support groups. And while there are a few, the question remains, are support groups actually necessary and/or effective at helping people to change their substance use behaviors? What people fail to realize is that before 1935 when Alcoholics Anonymous was formed, those people who struggled with alcohol or drug problems simply got over their problems and moved on with their lives. The entire premise that people need some kind of support structure or meeting was literally born out of the 12 step movement. Freedom Model co-authors Mark Scheeren, Steven Slate and Michelle Dunbar discuss their personal experiences in support group meetings and where their research has taken them. They talk candidly about whether or not support group meetings are necessary or effective