I. The 12 Step Model                            (used in the No More Secrets Program for sex and love addicts)

The 12-Step Treatment for Internet and Computer Addiction is based on the model pioneered by Alchoholics Anonymous. The only qualification for this treatment is a desire to stop living out a pattern of addiction. Because 12-Step programs already exist for sex and love addicts, participants in the No More Secrets Program are required to attend 12-step meetings, as well as participating in individual and group therapy.

To counter the destructive consequences of addiction, we draw on three major resources:

1. The willingness to stop acting out in our own, personal bottom-line (i.e. addictive) behavior on a daily basis.

2. Practicing the 12-Step program of recovery to achieve sobriety.

3. Developing a relationship with a Power greater than ourselves which can guide us and sustain us in recovery.

A quick overview of the course of treatment:
• The Nature of the illness/addictions
• Defense systems we create
• The recovery process
• New ways of thinking and feeling
• Human behavior and relationships
• Family roles and involvement
• Health concerns
• Creating a balanced lifestyle
• Creating a support system vital to recovery
• Developing spirituality

II. The Harm-Reduction Model (used in the Gaming and Internet Treatment Program for video game addicts)

Video game addiction is such a new phenomenon that 12-Step programs do not yet exist for it, except online. Nor are there in-patient treatment programs available. Both of these needs will, undoubtedly, be filled one day. In the meantime, we have embraced the harm-reduction model for the treatment of this addiction. The treatment is tailored to the gamer and the situation. Individual, group, family, and couple's counseling are used as needed.

Adult gamers who join the therapy group find a community that supports them as they learn to curb their addictive behavior. In individual therapy they learn to develop skills, insight, and goals for the real world.

In treating children and teenagers, parents are taught how to regain control of the computers, set appropriate limits and improve their relationships with their children. Gamers and their parents are educated about the nature of gaming addiction and the difficulties faced when addicted gamers go through withdrawal and then struggle to learn how to live well in the real world. If a formal intervention is indicated, then help is sought through an Intervention Specialist. The younger a child is when treatment is sought, the easier it is to bring gaming behavior to within healthy limits of time and content.

Couple's Counseling helps couples rebuild a relationship damaged by gaming. As with any addiction, the addict's primary relationship evolves into a relationship to the "drug of choice" -- in this case, video games. Over time, the partnership disintegrates, following certain predictable patterns. If both halves of the partnership are willing to rebuild, they can do so only once the addictive behaviors are ended or adequately controled.

Some gamers have other problems which must be addressed. For instance, our program has a counselor who specializes in Asperger's Syndrome, offering individual, group and family counseling. If a client has any problem which might require medication (such as severe depression, ADHD, or Bipolar Disorder) the appropriate referral is made.