About Us

Independent Research.
Real-World Solutions.

Independent Research.
Real-World Solutions.

The Addiction Research Foundation (ARF) exists for one reason: to make recovery more effective for more people. We design, test, and share tools that improve treatment outcomes — and we do it without industry influence.

Our Story

Our Story

Founded in Birmingham, Alabama, ARF began with a simple but urgent question: Why do so few programs track the outcomes that truly matter in recovery?

Years of research and clinical work led us to create the STAR Matrix — a visual, practical framework that gives clinicians and clients a shared understanding of recovery progress. Today, STAR Matrix is transforming how treatment is planned, delivered, and measured.

We also developed C3 — Caring, Conscious, Community, a no-cost recovery meeting space that welcomes all forms of recovery support.

Show Me The Way

How To Unhook and Live Free by Pam Moore (March 2018)

Natural Pathways of Recovery

Using the Star Matrix Assessment and MMRP To Revolutionize Treatment (September 2021)

Many Paths: Stories of Healing From Substance Use

By Pam Moore, Steve Moore, Shauna Moore and Friends (October 2025)

Our Leadership

Our Leadership

Steve Moore — Executive Director

With decades of experience in addiction treatment and research, Steve leads ARF’s mission to connect rigorous science with real-world practice.

Pam Moore — Co-Founder

Co-developer of the STAR Matrix and advocate for client-centered recovery models.

What We Do

How You Can Help

  • Conduct longitudinal outcome studiesto measure real progress.
  • Train clinicians in STAR Matrix implementation.
  • Provide free recovery meeting spacethrough C3.
  • Publish and share findings to improve recovery approaches everywhere.