Women for Sobriety (WFS)

Women for Sobriety is a women-only addiction recovery program. It focuses on empowering women through daily affirmations that encourage positive changes to support long-term recovery.

Key Facts

Learn about WFS and The New Life Program and its effectiveness
Learn the 13 Acceptance Statements and how to apply them daily
Learn how to join a meeting in person or online

Nearby 12 Step Rehab Programs

Finding facilities near you…

What Is Women for Sobriety (WFS)?

Women for Sobriety is the first peer-to-peer support group specifically for women who are in recovery from alcohol and substance use disorders.

Women for Sobriety in a Nutshell

WFS is an abstinence-based, non-secular program for women. Founded by Jean Kirkpatrick, WFS helps women improve self-esteem, relationships and develop practical tools to build a “new life” in recovery from alcohol or other drugs.

Core Approach: The New Life Program

For success in recovery, women must adapt to a new way of thinking and living. They must give themselves the attention they need to properly heal.

The New Life Program focuses on helping women become positive thinkers, take responsibility for themselves, identify changes that are needed and empower themselves to reach their recovery goals.

The 13 Acceptance Statements and Levels of Recovery

The 13 Acceptance Statements are daily recovery affirmations to help shift negative thought patterns and unhealthy coping behaviors into healthier, more positive ones. Each statement focuses on a specific theme, such as the following:

Personal responsibility and empowerment:

I have a life-threatening problem that once had me. I now take charge of my life and my well-being. I accept the responsibility.
I am responsible for myself and for my actions. I am in charge of my mind, my thoughts and my life.

Positive thinking and cognitive change:

Negative thoughts destroy only myself. My first conscious sober act is to reduce negativity in my life.
Happiness is a habit I am developing. Happiness is created, not waited for.
I am what I think. I am a capable, competent, caring, compassionate woman.

Emotional and spiritual growth:

Problems bother me only to the degree I permit. I now better understand my problems. I do not permit problems to overwhelm me.
Love can change the course of my world. Caring is all-important.
The fundamental object of life is emotional and spiritual growth. Every day, I put my life in order, knowing my priorities.
All love given returns. I am learning to know that I am loved.
Enthusiasm is my daily exercise. I treasure the moments of my new life.

Letting go of the past and embracing the future:

Life can be ordinary or great. Greatness is mine by a conscious effort.
The past is gone forever. I am no longer a victim of the past. I am a new woman.
I am a competent woman, and I have much to give to life. This is what I am, and I shall know it always.

How to Use WFS Tools in Real Life

WFS uses a “level of recovery” concept that progresses from early stabilization to sustained growth and purpose.

These levels include acceptance, letting go of negativity, a new self-image, positive attitudes, improving relationships and recognizing life’s priorities.

The founder of WFS recommends applying these tools and affirmations daily, for the first fifteen minutes of every day.

Then, choose one statement to focus on throughout the rest of the day. You will notice a change in your thought patterns and begin to have a more positive attitude about life in recovery.

Meetings and Community Support

WFS support groups are offered in person in some areas and online.

Meetings are led by certified WFS facilitators who have at least one year of sobriety and extensive training in the New Life Program. Meetings occur weekly in small groups for up to 90 minutes.

What Happens in a Women for Sobriety Meeting

Every WFS meeting begins with reading The 13 Acceptance Statements aloud. Then the peer leader will introduce a topic for discussion. Meetings focus less on past stories and more on building a positive future.

Online vs In-Person Options (and the Wider WFS Community)

WFS hosts numerous online recovery groups exist around the world. All groups, online and in person, are confidential.

Their goal is to provide encouragement, accountability, hope and growth. You can choose from groups that may better fit your specific needs, such as LGBTQ+, Newbies, Book Club, yoga, and more.

Is WFS Right for Me?

WFS is designed to offer women the connection, encouragement and motivation that is needed to support recovery.

A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment revealed that when compared to Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step programs, LifeRing, and SMART, WFS is equally effective.

Where WFS differs from other recovery support groups is that it is designed exclusively for women and focuses on positive statements rather than step-based programs.

Furthermore, WFS emphasizes affirmation-based identity growth instead of behavioral therapies or spiritual approaches.

Finding the recovery support you need can feel overwhelming.

If you’re wondering if WFS will be the best program to aid your recovery, answering these questions may help you decide:

Do you want a women-only support group?
Do you have either an alcohol or substance use disorder, or both?
Do you need practical tools you can implement daily?
Do you need help improving your self-esteem?
Do you have other issues to work through, such as past trauma, anxiety, depression, boundary issues, or relationship problems?

Answering yes to any of these questions may indicate that WFS is a good fit for you. However, to be completely sure, attend a meeting online or in person.

You don’t have to participate, but it gives you a chance to observe what goes on and make an informed decision.

Personalizing Your Recovery

There is no one-size-fits-all recovery program. For some, participating in more than one support group becomes a critical component of their relapse prevention plan, along with therapy and medication, if indicated.

If you feel WFS can benefit you in your recovery or want to learn more, call 800-985-8516 ( Sponsored Helpline ) today to speak with someone.

Women for Sobriety FAQs

Is Women for Sobriety a 12-Step Program?

No. WFS is not a 12-step program. It is based on the New Life tools and Acceptance Statements. However, some women pair WFS with the 12-step process to support their recovery.

Is WFS Religious?

WFS is not based on any religious beliefs. However, any woman, with or without a religious background, is welcome to participate.

Can I Go to WFS if I’m Still Drinking or Using?

WFS is an abstinence-based group. However, in the early stages of recovery, WFS understands you may feel ambivalent about sobriety. As long as you are seeking sobriety, you may find WFS can help you progress to long-term abstinence.

It is important to remember that abruptly decreasing or stopping your substance use can bring about withdrawal symptoms. It is recommended that you seek medical guidance before doing so.

How Much Does Women for Sobriety Cost?

WFS meetings are typically free, although some accept donations. You can support WFS by purchasing books, workbooks and other materials that can help you implement more structure in your recovery.