How to Use SMARTfinder
Searching for Meetings
To search for meetings in SMARTfinder, enter either:
- A city and state, or
- A ZIP code
As you type in the first few letters of a city, SMARTfinder will display suggested locations using predictive text. Select the best match from the list, to view available meetings in that area.
How to Join an Online Meeting
To join an online meeting in SMARTfinder, click on the meeting you would like to attend from the search results. This will open the full meeting listing, where you will typically find the Join Now button.
Meetings can usually be joined a few minutes before the scheduled start time. If a Join Now button is not available, scroll down to the meeting notes section for additional instructions or participation details.
How to Attend an In-Person Meeting
To attend an in-person meeting, click on the meeting from your search results, then scroll down to the location section to view the address and meeting details.
Be sure to also check out the meeting notes section for helpful information such as suite numbers, building entrances, parking instructions, or other details that may help you find the meeting.
Before heading to the meeting location, we recommend checking the listing one more time in case an update or cancellation notice has been added.
When you arrive: Look for the meeting facilitator, who can welcome you and answer any questions. Let them know if it’s your first time — though this is entirely optional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Search Results
Why am I seeing so many different types of meetings?
SMARTfinder displays all public meetings within 50 miles of your search location by default, including online, in-person, and national meetings. Use the filters to narrow your results and find the meeting type that best fits your needs.
What is a national meeting?
National meetings are online SMART Recovery meetings open to participants from anywhere, rather than being tied to a specific local community. Some national meetings focus on shared experiences or populations, while others are open to all. They can be a great way to connect with a broader recovery community and often include participants from many different locations. Because some national meetings are especially popular, they may occasionally fill to capacity.
Can I attend online meetings outside of my local area?
Yes. Online SMART Recovery meetings are open to participants regardless of where they live. Online meetings can be a great option if there are no local meetings nearby or if you prefer the flexibility of attending virtually. You can also attend meetings outside your area to find times, formats, or communities that best fit your needs.
In-person meetings are typically attended by people in the local community, but participants are generally welcome at any public meeting unless otherwise noted in the meeting description.
Attendance Verification
Do SMART Recovery meetings offer attendance verification?
Yes, some meetings offer attendance verification. This is commonly used by participants who need to document attendance for a court, treatment program, employer, or other requirement. Meetings that offer verification will display a verification symbol in the far-right column of the search results.
SMART Recovery meetings may offer:
-
Pathcheck™ Instant Verification — participants complete a form to obtain attendance verification, or -
Facilitator-provided verification — participants request verification directly from the meeting facilitator.
Participants using Pathcheck™ Instant Verification may choose to create a free SMART Recovery-sponsored Pathcheck Essentials account. Additional paid Pathcheck features and services are optional and offered directly through Pathcheck.
If a meeting does not display a verification symbol, attendance verification is not available for that meeting.
General Meeting Questions
Are SMART Recovery meetings confidential?
Yes. Everyone is expected to keep who attended and what was shared in the meeting confidential.
If I attend a meeting, what am I required to do?
Participation is always your choice. You are welcome to speak during discussions or simply listen. You do not have to share personal information, and in online meetings you are not required to turn on your camera.
Are SMART Recovery meetings free to attend?
Yes. SMART Recovery meetings are free to attend. Donations are requested to help cover meeting costs and other expenses, but you are not required to contribute.
Are there specific meetings for newcomers?
Newcomers are welcome at all SMART Recovery meetings. It can be helpful to let others in the group know you are new, but this is completely optional. Questions are welcome before, during, and after meetings.
Are there guidelines for SMART Recovery meetings?
Yes. SMART Recovery meetings are intended to provide a respectful, supportive, and welcoming environment for all participants. You can review the full guidelines here.