Sometimes called mutual aid groups, these regular groups offer an opportunity to share and learn from other people with similar life experiences. We facilitate weekly SMART Recovery support groups at our New Lynn and Whangārei hubs, and host NA (Narcotics Anonymous) meetings weekly in New Lynn.

SMART Recovery groups

Self-Management and Recovery Training (or SMART Recovery) was developed in the US in 1994 as an alternative to existing 12-Step groups to support people with mild to moderate addiction challenges in a community setting.  

An evidence-based approach based on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, SMART Recovery focuses on building and maintaining motivation, coping with urges, problem solving and lifestyle balance through engaging with others and short-term goal setting.

Odyssey offers weekly SMART Recovery groups in New Lynn, Whangārei, and also online. Each group is facilitated by a SMART Recovery-trained clinician and peer.

Participants learn skills and techniques that support goal-setting and self-directed change. Peers are encouraged to share practical experiences with each other, with an emphasis on the here and now (i.e. the past seven days or the next seven days). On completion of the programme, participants may also work towards becoming trained co-facilitators.

New Lynn: Wednesdays, 1:30pm-3:00pm
Whangarei: Wednesdays, 6:00pm-7:30pm

NA meetings

Narcotics Anonymous (NA) 12-Step meetings are held each week at our New Lynn hub.

New Lynn: Thursdays, 7:30pm

‘Choice’ methamphetamine support groups

Odyssey offers these free one-day support workshops for methamphetamine users in Northland to make different choices about their meth use.  The workshops are designed for mild to moderate users of methamphetamine and provide a relaxed, non-confrontational space to:  

• Learn more about the effects, cravings and health impacts of your methamphetamine use

• Identify areas you might like to focus on to help reduce or stop using meth

• Work on a relapse prevention plan.

‘Choice’ is part of the Te Ara Oranga (The path to wellbeing) programme, a partnership between Northland DHB and NZ Police.

Whangarei: 3rd Wednesday of each month, 9:00am-3:00pm. Lunch provided. 
Kaipara: every second month, 9:00am-3:00pm. Lunch provided. 
(Please contact us directly for next available dates)

To sign up, or to find out more:  Please email us or speak with our Northland community team on 09 982 8054.