I have personal experience of both. I have clipped about the treatment/support that has worked for me before: No "Higher Power" necessary.

the higher power thingy never did work for me- can't just toss it out there in hopes that blind faith will make it all better.......but i don't look at faith the same as some....

The hardest part of recovery is after the three important months of immediate recovery. Many will need continuing medical and/or psychological intervention, many will require specific help relating to work, relationships, training etc. Most benefit from those providers of 'soft' rehabilitation such as art based activities, and physical recreation such as walking groups. There are some fairly pessimistic figures going around regarding longterm success of 12 step programmes, but whatever the approach it is probably not good to see that as other than one of several supports that the recovering addict may usefully take advantage of.

I completely agree abailart.

www.wiredin.org.uk is splendid. Check out especially the link there to dailydose.