The 16-step empowerment model is a wholistic approach to overcoming addiction that views people in their wholeness- mind, body and spirit. A fundamental basis of this model is flexibility and an openness which leads to continually ask: What works? Who does it work for? and How can we help it work better?

At its core, this model is based on love not fear; internal control not external authoritarianism; affirmation not deflation; and trust in the ability of people to find their own healing path when given education, support, hope and choices.

The 16-step model helps people to develop ego strength which is seen as having a healthy ability to be introspective and to ask oneself the questions: Who am I? What do I value, believe and want? In the 16-step model, addiction is as a complex web of social factors, physical, pre-disposition and personal history.

This empowerment model encourages individuals to develop their own internal belief system based on their perceptions and experiences. It is fluid and open to change as the person evolves. It believes that a major task of healing from addiction is to validate the underlying, positive survival goals for safety, connection, pleasure, love and power. Then to find non-addictive and positive ways to meet those needs. It is also crucial to create a healthy physical balance to prevent cravings.

The 16-step model addresses issues of cultural diversity and internalized oppression stemming from sexism, racism, classism, and homophobia. In this model, the concept of "codependency" is understood as a form of internalized oppression, rather than an addiction to security, in a cultural context as well as an individual problem.

16-step model encourages people to use this or any other model as a springboard to find their own voice. And while it is crucial to acknowledge the power of addiction, this model helps people affirm the power they do have to take charge of their lives and overcome addiction. Developing one's passion, finding purpose, bonding with others and becoming involved in social change are seen as antidotes to addiction.