Al-Anon provides a lifelong support system that augments and reinforces what happens in therapy. Some of the benefits of Al-Anon are:

• A sense of belonging by identifying with others who have experience the same kinds of dilemmas and difficulties.
• Coping strategies for dealing with negative emotions 
• A sharper focus on one’s own goals and aspirations, rather than on someone else’s drinking.
• Mutual support, a healthy alternative to keeping secrets and trusting no one.

Attending Al-Anon is an opportunity that helps clients develop a relationship skill that most members of alcoholic families don’t learn otherwise.

Nancy Badger, Ph.D., Director
Counseling and Career Planning
University of Tennessee in Chattanooga