I didn't use AA or any 12 step program to quit, almost 5 years ago. I did however realize I needed some help along the way, so I saw a counselor 2x a week for about 6 months, and he taught me how to live sober..I had a lot of new learning to do, how to react to life in a sober and healthy way, and I didn't really know those skills all on my own so the guidance for me was pretty important.