Parallel Recovery, the Concept
New Way Forward for Families
Parallel Recovery™ is a transformational model that helps families heal alongside their loved one’s recovery—not by stepping away, but by stepping in with purpose.
Created by Lisa Katona Smith, Parallel Recovery™ recognizes that substance use disorder affects entire systems—not just individuals. It invites families to reclaim their role in the healing process through intentional reflection, education, connection, and sustainable action.
This isn’t about detaching with love or waiting for someone to hit rock bottom. It’s about learning to love better—with boundaries, clarity, and compassion that create the conditions for recovery on both sides of the relationship.
Not Just Support. A Shared Path.
Families are often told to step back, to wait, or to “fix themselves first.” But most traditional advice offers no clear path to healing—only guilt, confusion, or silence.
Parallel Recovery™ Offers Something Different
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A structure to help you reflect on your patterns of engagement
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A framework for understanding your loved one’s behavior—without excusing it
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Communication tools that prioritize influence, not control
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The space to grieve, reflect, and grow in your own recovery
This is not a linear program. It’s a living process. One that evolves with your relationship, your needs, and your capacity to show up differently.
Why “Parallel”?
Because your recovery doesn’t come after theirs. It runs alongside it.
Even if your loved one is refusing help or not yet ready, you can begin your process. You can learn to maintain the relationship without letting it consume you. You can step into the version of yourself that offers connection—not chaos—as the foundation for change.
Who It’s For
Parallel Recovery™ is for any family member, chosen family, or support person who loves someone affected by substance use disorder. It’s for parents, siblings, partners, adult children, and close friends who are ready to do the hard work of healing—even when change feels out of reach.
Understanding your own role, pain, and patterns
These aren’t “steps.” They are anchors—foundational practices that guide you back to yourself while opening the door to meaningful, mutual recovery.