TYPES OF MEETINGS

AA members meet to support each other, and specifically to help newcomers get sober and enjoy their lives. AA meetings come in all shapes and sizes. All meetings are alike in substance, but are different in form. We are certain you will find a meeting that fits your needs. Here are some of the meeting styles. All of these are called out in the meeting guides. 

• In Person or Online meetings is the most obvious defining characteristic. 

• Open meetings are for anyone who has an interest in AA, including family members and friends of alcoholics.

• Closed meetings are for alcoholics only, and people who think they may have a drinking problem.

• Meetings are either co-ed, women only, or men only.

• Newcomer meetings are specifically geared to people who are new in sobriety.

• Discussion meetings give everyone an opportunity to share what is going on in their lives.

• Speaker meetings are typically where one person shares their experiences with alcoholism and recovery. 

• LGBTQ meetings provide a safe place where you can focus on your recovery.

• Young People's meetings are open to AA's of all ages, but have a particular focus for young people in recovery.

• Handicap access is provided in many AA meeting rooms. These are noted in the guide. 

• Spanish  Speaking meetings are also available in many areas.