How the 12 steps can improve

The '12 steps' now dominate Rehab! As former Director of a 12 step center I want to make a few brief comments on how to improve the way the step are used in a professional forum.

1. The steps 'tend' to be approached as a mental exercise... yet, that majority of 'relapses' are triggered by a lack of ability to cope with negative emotional states. It seems obvious that any formal psychotherapy that helps both emotional expression & containment is very valuable!
   
2. Since the heart of the steps is search for a 'higher power' it seems sensible to make use of more established spiritual methods {e.g. formal meditation, 'transpersonal' therapy etc.}

What are your thoughts and experiences?
Peace,
Brian