The Real Thirteenth Step: Discovering Confidence, Self-Reliance, and Autonomy Beyond the 12-Step Programs by Tina B. Tessina

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This work addresses a question that many 12-step program (Alcoholics Anonymous, etc.) participants have undoubtedly asked: ``Where do I go from here?'' While never denying the benefits of these programs in helping to maintain abstinence from addictive behavior, Tessina, author of Lovestyles: How to Celebrate Your Differences (Borgo Pr., 1987), suggests that program involvement may not have to be lifelong, and that many participants may be able to ``graduate'' to autonomous living. To help achieve this, she provides exercises and guidelines on how to manage life after 12-step programs. An excellent chapter on developing healthy, intimate relationships is also included. The premise of this intelligently written title is bound to cause some controversy. Recommended for popular psychology, self-help, and recovery collections.-- Linda S. Greene, Chicago P.L.