The Real Thirteenth Step: Discovering Confidence, Self-Reliance, and Antonomy Beyond the 12-Step Programs

Tina Tessina asserts that, despite the millions who've found relief from addictive and compulsive habits through 12-step programs, these same programs' insistence that members always keep coming back unwittingly fosters attitudes that can undermine independence, self-confidence, and self-reliance, the foundations of a long, successful, healthy life.

The Real 13th Step dispels the bedrock recovery principle that some people are just born with addictive personalities. Instead, Tina Tessina targets the real problem as learned dependency, and she teaches readers how to develop the three central skills of true independence: risk-taking, problem-solving, and coping with failure. She then offers practical advice about applying these principles in every aspect of our lives: relationships, work, decision-making, and managing the continuing temptations of addiction.

Readers will discover how to take control of their own lives and remain free of the fear of relapse or setback in their recovery.