As mentioned in item:3, void went the DIY route because there was a 
tendency for people in recovery groups to replace one addiction for 
another.  That may be an inherent weakness in recovery groups: they 
are not always safe havens from addiction.

I am in at least one support group where we have a facilitator that is 
not a struggler as the rest of the members are.  I think this person 
serves as a grounding anchor, a role model, and a connection to 
sobriety, healing, and ultimate recovery.

For us, it is an ecclestiastical leader, but the role can be filled by 
any spiritual leader, counselor, therapist, etc.

5 responses total.

Ultimately, there should be somewhat of a bridge out of the recovery 
group, because the risk of possible insularity is dangerous.  I'm not 
saying that recovered individuals don't have a positive role in a 
support group, but I think having an understanding, supportive, non-
addict as a facilitator can be a strong link to the outside world.  A 
reintegration of sorts is healthy, because I think stripping the addict 
label eventually is the goal.

I'm curious.  None of the support groups I've been in have ever had a
facilitator.  That sounds more like group therapy than a support group.
YMMV.  

   Actually, remembering that you are an addict is the goal.  Addiction
never goes away, but you can disallow yourself to self-destruct in the
manner of your addiction.

Well, I didn't mean to split hairs.. what I was trying to say that I 
can realize I'm an addict, but that I need not let it ultimately define 
me.

resp:2  You're probably right.

   re #4, the first part: I'll go along with that wholeheartedly.

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