Expanding Meeting Options: Introducing Camera-Required Meetings

SMART Recovery is introducing a new option for online meeting participation: camera-required meetings.

We recognize that participants have different preferences when it comes to engaging in online meetings. Some appreciate the flexibility of participating with their cameras off, while others prefer a meeting environment where everyone is visible.

To accommodate these preferences, a limited number of local, public, online meetings will be eligible to apply to receive a camera-required designation. More details to come on application process.

Camera use will remain optional in most SMART Recovery online meetings. Participants will continue to have access to camera-optional meetings and can choose the meeting environment that best fits their needs.

Meetings approved for a camera-required designation will have clearly identified expectations, allowing participants to make informed decisions before attending.

The camera-required designation applies to individual meetings rather than to facilitators generally. Facilitators interested in offering this option will participate in an approval process, complete additional training, and acknowledge the requirements before the designation is activated.

The pilot program began in October 2026.

More Options, Clearer Expectations

Our goal is not to change the experience of every SMART Recovery meeting. It is to provide additional choices while helping participants understand what to expect when selecting a meeting.

If you currently facilitate an online SMART Recovery meeting, please watch your email for additional information about this new option and how to express your interest.