Addiction isn't like it is on TV.
Most churches don’t offer recovery ministries—yet addiction is everywhere.
People are searching for healing, but often their Church has no place for them to turn. Church addiction recovery ministries change that. These Christ-centered communities offer safety, connection, and a path to lasting freedom. And studies show faith-based recovery leads to stronger, longer-term outcomes than traditional programs alone.
Nearly 50 million people struggle every day to escape the grip of addiction. For many, it's not just about finding abstinence—it's about finding true freedom. While there are countless programs to aid in recovery, many lack one critical, central component. Without it, the possibility of long-term freedom remains elusive. That critical component is the Gospel, the life-changing, transformative power that comes from putting one's faith and trust in Jesus Christ.
GET STARTED TODAY
Welcome to the Coach’s Playbook—a practical guide designed to equip and empower Dunamis Recovery Coaches. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to understand your role, launch and lead a successful group, and access the tools and support available to help you thrive. Whether you're just getting started or looking to strengthen an existing group, this comprehensive resource is here to walk with you every step of the way.
Fill out this form to receive your copy of the Coaches Playbook!
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WHY DUNAMIS
Dr. Don Middleton, through decades of experience as a medical professional and a personal understanding of addiction, has committed his life to helping others find freedom. His unique blend of medical expertise, faith, and personal journey has equipped him to lead individuals out of addiction and into a life of true freedom.
A GOSPEP-CENTERED APPROACH TO AA'S 12-STEPS
In his groundbreaking work, The Dunamis Effect, Dr. Middleton offered a biblical perspective on the 12 steps commonly found in programs originating from Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Instead of focusing solely on a "higher power," his approach draws directly from the principles of Scripture, guiding individuals to confront their addiction through the lens of faith.
In his latest book, Dissecting the Prayers and Promises of AA, Don continues this Gospel-centered approach. This book goes beyond a surface-level understanding of recovery, helping individuals and churches integrate a faith-based perspective into their journey toward freedom from addiction.
The word "Dunamis" signifies potential power or strength, similar to a bowstring being pulled back, ready to be released. Dunamis is used throughout scripture, particularly the New Testament where Jesus heals With that in mind we focus on three areas of focus - modern addiction medicine, Biblical Christian counseling programs, and a Biblical understanding of the 12 steps.
HOW IT WORKS
Starting a recovery ministry may feel daunting—but you’re not alone. We’re here to partner with you as you disciple and care for those in your congregation seeking freedom and restoration through Christ.
Here’s what the journey looks like:
Start with a conversation
Talk with Don about your church’s mission, your heart for healing, and the spiritual needs of your community.
Identify a shepherd
We’ll help you raise up a Recovery Group Leader—someone equipped to walk alongside others in their journey of faith and recovery.
Equip the saints
We’ll provide all the tools you need: Christ-centered curriculum, leader training, outreach materials, and ongoing pastoral support.
Launch with bold faith
As you step into this calling, we’ll walk with you—encouraging and supporting your team as lives are transformed by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Dunamis Recovery Groups are Christ-centered 12 Step groups designed to be simple for churches to launch and sustain.
- Unlike AA, our approach openly integrates Scripture, prayer, and the power of Jesus Christ as the only True Higher Power.
- Unlike Celebrate Recovery, Dunamis groups are easier to implement, requiring fewer leaders and no large-scale programming.
Our mission is to make recovery ministry accessible for every church, regardless of size or resources.
Dunamis groups welcome anyone battling life-controlling struggles—alcohol, drugs, pornography, gambling, food, or destructive habits.
The actual DOC (drug of choice) isn’t the problem anyway. It is merely a crummy response to the problem. The 12 steps are designed to help people to gain a deeper understanding of why they are using it in the first place.
The 12 Steps, grounded in Scripture, offer a proven pathway to freedom in Christ. All are welcome, and all can find healing.
Every congregation is different, and we know this can feel like a sensitive topic. We’d be honored to help. Our team can provide sermon illustrations, talking points, or even a one-page resource that makes it easy to start the conversation.
When recovery is woven into the life of the church, it breaks down stigma and opens doors for people who are silently struggling.
Additionally, Dr. Middleton is available to assist in the start up as much or as little as is needed in your circumstance.
Starting a Dunamis Recovery Group is low-cost and flexible. Most churches begin with a starter kit that includes books, leader guides, and promotional resources. Please reach out and we’ll help you develop a Start Up Kit that will best meet your church’s needs. Scholarships are available through generous donations from our supporters.
Groups typically meet once a week, and leaders can expect to invest 2–3 hours per week between preparation and group time.
We keep it simple, so churches can focus on building relationships and watching God transform lives.
There are certainly people sitting in your congregation who are already trained in the art of recovery groups. Their 12th step strongly encourages them to pay the blessings forward and you will find many of them eager to participate in a Christ-Centered recovery group.
We recommend that leaders have long-term recovery experience, ideally having:
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Worked the 12 Steps themselves
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Experienced at least one year of sobriety
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Supported others in their recovery journey
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Want to live the 12th step and become a steward of support for others in recovery
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Deeply rooted in faith, knowing God’s love is integral to the healing process
The best coaches are those who have walked the path and can relate firsthand. This builds trust with group members and creates an environment where faith and healing can thrive.
By approaching the congregation with an opportunity to start a Christ-Centered Recovery group, you may well find that there are more volunteers than you expected.
You won’t be walking this road alone—we’re with you every step. Dunamis provides:
- Leader training & guides
- Launch resources (flyers, slides, social posts)
- Ongoing support—we’re always a call or an email away
- Community support from other group leaders
We exist to ensure your group is both sustainable and impactful.
MEET DR. DON MIDDLETON
Addiction is one of the biggest problems the church will face. It’s sitting in your seats every Sunday morning. We want to help. The Dunamis Initiative is all about recovery with the power of Jesus Christ at the center. We’d love to talk with you further about how we can help you bring this recovery ministry to your church today.
What others are saying
Russell D Smoldon
"I lead a Life Recovery group that we set up through our Church that deals with addiction of all kinds. Based off the Life Recovery Bible and Biblical teachings, we have adopted The Dunamis Effect as our guidebook. We use this guide and the 12 steps in a belief that Jesus is our Higher Power. The group loves this more modern, medical, and spiritual approach to the 12 steps and recovery. I recommend this approach if your goal is to bring spiritual wellness and the love of Jesus to recovery. This is essential to lifelong sobriety and a selfless service to God and our neighbors."
Christ Church of the Valley (CCV)
Ashley Wooldridge
“The Dunamis Effect” provides the needed resources for a comprehensive Christian recovery ministry for churches of any size. I highly recommend it to any church wishing to expand their reach.
Meadows Behavioral Healthcare
Jerry L. Law
"Dr. Middleton has tackled the issue of developing a 12-Step program based recovery program that supports men and women who identify as Christians and have historically been reluctant to engage in traditional 12-Step Programs."
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