The 12-step approach is a well-known alcohol addiction recovery model. It is commonly associated with peer support and abstinence-based recovery, and some treatment providers may include 12-step principles alongside therapy, relapse prevention and aftercare.
Recovery Scotland is an information and referral support service. We do not operate a residential rehab centre and we do not provide clinical treatment directly. We help people understand alcohol rehab and addiction treatment options and, where appropriate, connect with suitable treatment providers.
Get in TouchRecovery Scotland can offer confidential guidance and referral support to help you explore alcohol rehab options and ask providers about 12-step approaches.
The 12 steps involve the following message to alcoholics:
The 12 steps are intended to be followed in sequence and in their entirety, even if you don’t like some of them.
Some of the steps are more challenging than others, but they are crucial for long-term success.
Each of the 12 steps presents a unique challenge. It’s important to tackle them at your own pace with a sponsor’s support. Group therapies and support groups can also help.
The 12 steps often work best when paired with clinical therapies such as DBT or CBT. When multiple disorders are present, such as mental health disorders, dual diagnosis is recommended.
Bill Wilson, a former member of Alcoholics Anonymous AA created the 12 steps back in 1938.
During his experience in the group, he wrote all of his ideas and tips about sobriety. After combining these tips with some other teachings and Christian inspiration, he put together the 12 steps.
These steps were then recorded in The Big Book, intended for those who couldn’t attend AA meetings. From there, the 12 steps became the primary model for AA.
Today, there are various versions of the 12-step programme. Most of these are designed for those with less faith-based views or for people who are recovering from different types of addictions.
Some rehab providers may include 12-step principles as part of a wider treatment programme. Others may use different therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, counselling, relapse prevention planning, group therapy or trauma-informed support.
The right approach depends on the person, the provider and the assessment process. Recovery Scotland can help you understand what to ask when comparing alcohol rehab providers.
Long-term recovery often involves ongoing support, structure and relapse prevention planning. For some people, 12-step meetings or peer support groups can provide accountability and connection after formal treatment.
Aftercare options vary by provider. Ask whether aftercare is included, how long it lasts and whether support is available near home or remotely.
If someone is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical help, call 999. For non-emergency medical advice in Scotland, contact NHS 24 on 111 or speak to a GP.
Recovery Scotland can provide confidential guidance and referral support for people exploring alcohol rehab options. We do not provide treatment directly and we do not operate a rehab centre. Where appropriate, we can help you understand treatment pathways and discuss suitable providers.
John Gillen
- Author
- Last updated: June 17, 2026
John has travelled extensively around the world, culminating in 19 years’ experience looking at different models. He is the European pioneer of NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) treatment to Europe in 2010; and recently back from the USA bringing state of the art Virtual Reality Relapse Prevention and stress reduction therapy. His passion extends to other metabolic disturbances and neurodegenerative diseases. The journey continues. In recent times, John has travelled to Russia to study and research into a new therapy photobiomudulation or systemic laser therapy working with NAD+ scientists and the very best of the medical professionals in the UK and the USA, together with Nadcell, Bionad Hospitals own select Doctors, nurses, dieticians and therapists. Johns’ passion continues to endeavour to bring to the UK and Europe new developments with NAD+ Therapy in preventive and restorative medicine and Wellness. In 2017 John Gillen was made a visiting Professor at the John Naisbitt university in Belgrade Serbia.
All of our staff are fully qualified and dedicated to your recovery so you can feel safe in our care during your stay. Registered with Health Improvement Scotland, our staff are up to date with the latest addiction treatment policies and safety training.
John Gillen
European Pioneer of NAD+ Therapy
John has travelled extensively around the world, culminating in 19 years’ experience looking at different models. He is the European pioneer of NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) treatment to Europe in 2010; and recently back from the USA bringing state of the art Virtual Reality Relapse Prevention and stress reduction therapy.
His passion extends to other metabolic disturbances and neurodegenerative diseases.
The journey continues. In recent times, John has travelled to Russia to study and research into a new therapy photobiomudulation or systemic laser therapy working with NAD+ scientists and the very best of the medical professionals in the UK and the USA, together with Nadcell, Bionad Hospitals own select Doctors, nurses, dieticians and therapists.
Johns’ passion continues to endeavour to bring to the UK and Europe new developments with NAD+ Therapy in preventive and restorative medicine and Wellness. In 2017 John Gillen was made a visiting Professor at the John Naisbitt university in Belgrade Serbia.
John Gillen
European Pioneer of NAD+ Therapy
John has travelled extensively around the world, culminating in 19 years’ experience looking at different models. He is the European pioneer of NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) treatment to Europe in 2010; and recently back from the USA bringing state of the art Virtual Reality Relapse Prevention and stress reduction therapy.
His passion extends to other metabolic disturbances and neurodegenerative diseases.
The journey continues. In recent times, John has travelled to Russia to study and research into a new therapy photobiomudulation or systemic laser therapy working with NAD+ scientists and the very best of the medical professionals in the UK and the USA, together with Nadcell, Bionad Hospitals own select Doctors, nurses, dieticians and therapists.
Johns’ passion continues to endeavour to bring to the UK and Europe new developments with NAD+ Therapy in preventive and restorative medicine and Wellness. In 2017 John Gillen was made a visiting Professor at the John Naisbitt university in Belgrade Serbia.
Madissar Iqbal
Madissar has a wealth of experience in a managerial position within substance misuse for over 20 years, working with offending behaviour and criminal justice. Madissar began his career as a prison officer in 2000 and progressed further in the substance misuse field within the prison settings delivering various short duration programmes and linking prisoners to community-based treatment providers before their release.
In 2006 Madissar successfully managed to set up the Drug Intervention Programme within Bedfordshire. This later transpired to successfully securing a service manager role and developing the Drug Rehabilitation Requirement Order. Madissar successfully secured various managerial positions within the substance misuse field with joint partnership working with Integrated Offender Management and police in reducing drug-related offending behaviour. Madissar gained extensive experience and expertise working for several organisations, such as Adapt, Rapt, Addaction, Westminster Drug Project, Hertfordshire Couty Council, NHS and Next Step Support. Madissar holds a diploma in level 5 Leadership and Management and has extensive experience in the senior managerial role.
Madissar passion lies in supporting services to achieve their goals and objectives. In the last two years, Madissar progressed further in mental health as a senior managerial role, overseeing residential rehabilitation and supporting living accommodations with adults (18+) with a range of diverse complex needs.
Madissar Iqbal
Madissar has a wealth of experience in a managerial position within substance misuse for over 20 years, working with offending behaviour and criminal justice. Madissar began his career as a prison officer in 2000 and progressed further in the substance misuse field within the prison settings delivering various short duration programmes and linking prisoners to community-based treatment providers before their release.
In 2006 Madissar successfully managed to set up the Drug Intervention Programme within Bedfordshire. This later transpired to successfully securing a service manager role and developing the Drug Rehabilitation Requirement Order. Madissar successfully secured various managerial positions within the substance misuse field with joint partnership working with Integrated Offender Management and police in reducing drug-related offending behaviour. Madissar gained extensive experience and expertise working for several organisations, such as Adapt, Rapt, Addaction, Westminster Drug Project, Hertfordshire Couty Council, NHS and Next Step Support. Madissar holds a diploma in level 5 Leadership and Management and has extensive experience in the senior managerial role.
Madissar passion lies in supporting services to achieve their goals and objectives. In the last two years, Madissar progressed further in mental health as a senior managerial role, overseeing residential rehabilitation and supporting living accommodations with adults (18+) with a range of diverse complex needs.
Scott Watson
Hi, I'm Scott Watson and I am a qualified Chef at Nova Recovery Private Hospital
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Scott Watson
Hi, I'm Scott Watson and I am a qualified Chef at Nova Recovery Private Hospital
Clare McGilligan
Clare has many years of nursing experience working within addiction and criminal justice sector. Clare began her career in addictions working with Turning Points criminal justice and addiction residential service in Glasgow. From there she joined the NHS working in the community with service users with drug and alcohol addiction and mental health and trauma issues.
Clare played a pivotal part in setting up the mental health clinic within the South Glasgow Addiction, Drug Recovery Team. By 2019 Clare had secured a senior addiction nurse position within the NHS.
Clare joined Nova recovery as a staff nurse in 2021 but was quickly promoted to Deputy Manager as her experience and knowledge proved she was a good team leader to the other staff members and a positive influence to the service.
By February 2022 Clare was further promoted to Registered Manager of Nova Recovery and has since proven to be a dedicated and supportive manager to her staff and a positive leader looking to expand and develop Nova Recovery as the number ‘1’ Addiction Treatment Clinic in Scotland.
Clare McGilligan
Clare has many years of nursing experience working within addiction and criminal justice sector. Clare began her career in addictions working with Turning Points criminal justice and addiction residential service in Glasgow. From there she joined the NHS working in the community with service users with drug and alcohol addiction and mental health and trauma issues.
Clare played a pivotal part in setting up the mental health clinic within the South Glasgow Addiction, Drug Recovery Team. By 2019 Clare had secured a senior addiction nurse position within the NHS.
Clare joined Nova recovery as a staff nurse in 2021 but was quickly promoted to Deputy Manager as her experience and knowledge proved she was a good team leader to the other staff members and a positive influence to the service.
By February 2022 Clare was further promoted to Registered Manager of Nova Recovery and has since proven to be a dedicated and supportive manager to her staff and a positive leader looking to expand and develop Nova Recovery as the number ‘1’ Addiction Treatment Clinic in Scotland.
Carole Sheppard
Carole has been Mental Health nursing for over 25 years. She has had several management positions throughout her extensive career where she has worked within the NHS Mental Health hospitals, Care of the elderly units and addiction services. Since starting at Nova Recovery Carole has qualified as a Nutritionist and has developed group work and information for our clients, on the benefits of a healthy balance diet for good mental health and combating the effects of drug and alcohol addiction.
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Carole Sheppard
Carole has been Mental Health nursing for over 25 years. She has had several management positions throughout her extensive career where she has worked within the NHS Mental Health hospitals, Care of the elderly units and addiction services. Since starting at Nova Recovery Carole has qualified as a Nutritionist and has developed group work and information for our clients, on the benefits of a healthy balance diet for good mental health and combating the effects of drug and alcohol addiction.
Charlotte Crawford
Charlotte tailors her approach to the needs of her clients and works in collaboration with them so that ultimately the client can become their own therapist, by applying new skills and techniques to determine positive patterns of thinking and behaving.
CBT can help the individual cope with those painful feelings and distressing, upsetting thoughts, and by working together with Charlotte they will find the solutions that will help them.
Charlotte has Healthcare Professional recognition and is a recognised provider of medical treatment with Nova Recovery, Vitality Health, Cigna and Aetna Global Benefits
Training, qualifications & experience
Registered Member of British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy; BACP
MBACP Private Practice Division and MBACP children and young people division.
Post-qualifying, Level 4 Certificate in child counselling.
Post Grad Diploma in Counselling and Groupwork, a C B T approach.
COSCA Certificate in Counselling Skills; Strathclyde University.
Registered Nurse Qualification ( no longer practising)
I have further training in; Bereavement in schools, Emotional Literacy in Young People, STRADA (Misuse of Alcohol), CALM (Crisis, Aggression, Limitation Management), ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training,) Child Protection Awareness, Working with People Using Alcohol and Drugs, Motivational Interviewing and Social Inclusion (Equality, Diversity and Human Rights).
Charlotte Crawford
Charlotte tailors her approach to the needs of her clients and works in collaboration with them so that ultimately the client can become their own therapist, by applying new skills and techniques to determine positive patterns of thinking and behaving.
CBT can help the individual cope with those painful feelings and distressing, upsetting thoughts, and by working together with Charlotte they will find the solutions that will help them.
Charlotte has Healthcare Professional recognition and is a recognised provider of medical treatment with Nova Recovery, Vitality Health, Cigna and Aetna Global Benefits
Training, qualifications & experience
Registered Member of British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy; BACP
MBACP Private Practice Division and MBACP children and young people division.
Post-qualifying, Level 4 Certificate in child counselling.
Post Grad Diploma in Counselling and Groupwork, a C B T approach.
COSCA Certificate in Counselling Skills; Strathclyde University.
Registered Nurse Qualification ( no longer practising)
I have further training in; Bereavement in schools, Emotional Literacy in Young People, STRADA (Misuse of Alcohol), CALM (Crisis, Aggression, Limitation Management), ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training,) Child Protection Awareness, Working with People Using Alcohol and Drugs, Motivational Interviewing and Social Inclusion (Equality, Diversity and Human Rights).
Kimberley Adams
Kimberley Adams is an experienced dual trained nurse with over 20 years of experience in Mental Health and Adult Nursing.
Kimberley spent many years working for the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde in various settings such as Acute Hospital Wards, Community Psychiatric Team and was the specialist Harm Reduction Nurse with the Community Addictions Team In Paisley Renfrewshire.
Kimberley has a keen interest in Mental Health First Aid and alternative Mental Health treatments which are now being researched.
Kimberley Adams
Kimberley Adams is an experienced dual trained nurse with over 20 years of experience in Mental Health and Adult Nursing.
Kimberley spent many years working for the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde in various settings such as Acute Hospital Wards, Community Psychiatric Team and was the specialist Harm Reduction Nurse with the Community Addictions Team In Paisley Renfrewshire.
Kimberley has a keen interest in Mental Health First Aid and alternative Mental Health treatments which are now being researched.
Tracey Farrell
Tracey Farrell is our Senior Specialist Recovery Worker and Group Development Practitioner. Tracey has a wealth of experience working within managerial roles specialising in mental health and trauma, and working within addiction, social care and youth programmes for 15 years. Tracey has also trained in holistic therapies such as Reiki, Indian head massage, and sensory grounding techniques.
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Tracey Farrell
Tracey Farrell is our Senior Specialist Recovery Worker and Group Development Practitioner. Tracey has a wealth of experience working within managerial roles specialising in mental health and trauma, and working within addiction, social care and youth programmes for 15 years. Tracey has also trained in holistic therapies such as Reiki, Indian head massage, and sensory grounding techniques.
Sam Johnson
Sam Johnson is Nova’s on-site Personal Trainer, Yoga Teacher and Team Leader. Sam began her working life in the Army, where fitness and dedication are paramount.
Sam has worked in healthcare for a number of years since leaving the Army to start a family.
Sam has worked at Nova since July 2021. She gained her SVQ3 and was promoted to Recovery Worker Team Leader. She facilitates a fitness programme for the clients. “I believe that exercising several times per week at a pace that is tailored to the individual is an important part of the recovery journey”.
Sam also practices Meditation and Aroma Therapy to help destress and relax the clients throughout their journey at Nova.
Sam Johnson
Sam Johnson is Nova’s on-site Personal Trainer, Yoga Teacher and Team Leader. Sam began her working life in the Army, where fitness and dedication are paramount.
Sam has worked in healthcare for a number of years since leaving the Army to start a family.
Sam has worked at Nova since July 2021. She gained her SVQ3 and was promoted to Recovery Worker Team Leader. She facilitates a fitness programme for the clients. “I believe that exercising several times per week at a pace that is tailored to the individual is an important part of the recovery journey”.
Sam also practices Meditation and Aroma Therapy to help destress and relax the clients throughout their journey at Nova.
Suzanne Hyslop
Suzanne is one of our Recovery Workers specialising in Nutrition. With a BSC in Applied Nutrition From Glasgow Caledonian university, Suzanne has taken on the role of Nutritionist at Nova Recovery where she provides education on the benefits of having a healthy diet and can create a dietary plan for the individual.
Suzanne is passionate about good nutrition and the connection it has to good mental health. Suzanne has also trained in mindfulness and uses her skills and knowledge to lead group sessions on both subjects.
As a Recovery Worker Suzanne is also involved in taking care of clients on a personal basis, offering one to one support, escorting clients on ‘reintegration’ walks into the local community or on daily fitness walks and activities.
Suzanne Hyslop
Suzanne is one of our Recovery Workers specialising in Nutrition. With a BSC in Applied Nutrition From Glasgow Caledonian university, Suzanne has taken on the role of Nutritionist at Nova Recovery where she provides education on the benefits of having a healthy diet and can create a dietary plan for the individual.
Suzanne is passionate about good nutrition and the connection it has to good mental health. Suzanne has also trained in mindfulness and uses her skills and knowledge to lead group sessions on both subjects.
As a Recovery Worker Suzanne is also involved in taking care of clients on a personal basis, offering one to one support, escorting clients on ‘reintegration’ walks into the local community or on daily fitness walks and activities.
Meghan Newton
Meghan has worked at Nova Recovery as a Recovery Worker since we first opened our doors in May 2021. After graduating in 2018 with a BSc in Applied Psychology, Meghan began working in the Health & Social Care sector. Looking for an opportunity to apply her degree and with a keen interest in addiction, Meghan started working at Nova Recovery as a Recovery Worker.
From August 2022 Meghan switched roles to Administrator which has given her the chance to experience and appreciate everything that takes place behind the scenes to provide this life-saving service.
Meghan Newton
Meghan has worked at Nova Recovery as a Recovery Worker since we first opened our doors in May 2021. After graduating in 2018 with a BSc in Applied Psychology, Meghan began working in the Health & Social Care sector. Looking for an opportunity to apply her degree and with a keen interest in addiction, Meghan started working at Nova Recovery as a Recovery Worker.
From August 2022 Meghan switched roles to Administrator which has given her the chance to experience and appreciate everything that takes place behind the scenes to provide this life-saving service.
Dr Luqman Khan MBchB, FRCS, MRCPsych
Dr Luqman Khan (MBchB, FRCS, MRCPsych) is a highly experienced and well-qualified psychiatrist with over ten years of experience in general psychiatry and addiction services.
He is certified by the MRCPsych and is known for his innovative approach to treating a diverse range of clients with high morbidity related to alcohol, drugs, and mental health problems.
At Nova Recovery, Dr Khan will utilise his extensive knowledge and experience to provide patients with the highest level of care and support in their journey towards recovery. He will work closely with our addiction recovery team to develop individualised treatment plans for each patient, considering their specific needs and circumstances.
He is passionate about supporting individuals in achieving their goals and objectives and is committed to working with patients to help them overcome their addiction dependency and improve their overall well-being. Utilising evidence-based practices and the latest research in addiction treatment, Dr Khan will help ensure that patients receive the most effective care possible.
As an adept communicator with excellent interpersonal skills, Dr Khan can connect with patients from all walks of life. Patients can expect to receive comprehensive and compassionate care from Dr Khan. With his expertise and guidance, they will be given the best chances of achieving long-term recovery.
Dr Luqman Khan MBchB, FRCS, MRCPsych
Dr Luqman Khan (MBchB, FRCS, MRCPsych) is a highly experienced and well-qualified psychiatrist with over ten years of experience in general psychiatry and addiction services.
He is certified by the MRCPsych and is known for his innovative approach to treating a diverse range of clients with high morbidity related to alcohol, drugs, and mental health problems.
At Nova Recovery, Dr Khan will utilise his extensive knowledge and experience to provide patients with the highest level of care and support in their journey towards recovery. He will work closely with our addiction recovery team to develop individualised treatment plans for each patient, considering their specific needs and circumstances.
He is passionate about supporting individuals in achieving their goals and objectives and is committed to working with patients to help them overcome their addiction dependency and improve their overall well-being. Utilising evidence-based practices and the latest research in addiction treatment, Dr Khan will help ensure that patients receive the most effective care possible.
As an adept communicator with excellent interpersonal skills, Dr Khan can connect with patients from all walks of life. Patients can expect to receive comprehensive and compassionate care from Dr Khan. With his expertise and guidance, they will be given the best chances of achieving long-term recovery.
Cocaine and heroin are two very dangerous drugs, but they are not the same. They affect the body in different ways and can cause different types of harm. In this blog, we will explain what cocaine is, what heroin is, and the main ways they are different. Cocaine and…
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Alcoholism often carries a stigma, but one of its most insidious forms is high functioning alcoholism. Many people with this condition manage to maintain careers, relationships, and a semblance of normalcy, all whilst struggling with their dependence on alcohol. If you suspect that someone you know and care about is…
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