What is the 12 step Minnesota Model?

The 12 step Minnesota model is known for being quite effective in helping people recover from addiction and reclaim their lives. It is based on the twelve-step program and philosophy of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). The 12-Step Model is known as the Minnesota Model because its use originally took hold in Minnesota at the Hazelden Foundation, one of the most renowned addiction treatment pioneers. The twelve-step model is by far the most popular method used globally due to its over-riding success rates.

A key factor of the Minnesota Model is that it offers a holistic approach – treatment for the body, mind and spirit. For instance, the model also advocates bringing together expertise from many disciplines including doctors, psychiatrists, counsellors, recovering alcoholic ‘lay’ people, masseurs etc. It supports a multidisciplinary approach, acknowledging that you need to get back on track with your families, finances, and employers etc.

How does this work?

The Minnesota model emphasizes individualization of treatment, meaning your treatment program is uniquely designed to meet your needs and address specific issues around addiction. Since we all experience addiction and recovery differently, no one treatment program is going to be effective for all of us, so having an individualized approach can make all the difference.