Brad M. DeRoma, LIAC, CCTP
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By Brad M. DeRoma, LIAC, CCTP | Scottsdale Recovery Center
Alcoholics Anonymous, also known as AA, is an often misunderstood or underestimated resource for those in recovery.
AA is one of the most accessible and widely utilized community-based mutual self-help groups. Rooted in a 12-step and spiritual-based approach, AA has provided hope and healing to millions of people for nearly a century. While some may equate "spiritual" with "religious," AA maintains a non-denominational philosophy centered around the idea of a "Higher Power of your understanding." This flexible framework allows people of all faiths, or none at all, to feel welcomed.
As a licensed addiction counselor, I’ve seen firsthand how preventive action often begins with awareness. Unfortunately, a lack of information can lead to misconceptions, discouraging people from seeking support. AA can serve as a vital entry point to recovery or as a long-term support system for maintaining sobriety.
The program is often misunderstood by those who have never been to a meeting. Lack of information often leads to misinformation and even fear. No need to fear as AA is one of the most popular groups of the community-based mutual self-help groups out there.
It is a 12-step, spiritually based program. People often confuse “spiritual” with “religious.” And although some people who attend AA will discuss their religion, the group itself is not religious. The belief in a “higher power” is central to the AA program, but this higher power is “a god of your understanding” — meaning you decide what that higher power is.
AA has been around for nearly 100 years, and groups can be found in most major cities and even small towns around the world. There are also online meetings. Despite its popularity, many people do not know what AA is all about. So let’s address some of those common questions:
What to expect going into an AA meeting
First and foremost, AA is non-professional and peer-led. What this means is there are no dues or costs to attend. Meetings will often ask for donations to help pay for things like books and rent, but this is not an obligation. Also, you do not sign up or even sign in. It is, per its name, anonymous. You are not obligated to share any personal information or even speak if you choose not to. You will find many who do not. The only requirement to join an AA meeting is the desire to quit drinking. Meetings generally last about an hour and often end with the serenity prayer.
Factors to consider when looking for a meeting
AA meetings can be different depending on the one you go to. Some of the more common formats include newcomer meetings, open-sharing/discussion, big book study, speaker-led meetings, and 12-step study meetings, among many others. Each of these formats has its own focus, and therefore its own appeal. With so many options, there is something for everyone.
AA meetings have also expanded to be inclusive of language and community-based needs. For example, if your native language is Spanish, there are Spanish-speaking meetings. There are also meetings available that are gender-specific (male, female, transgender, non-binary, etc.), LGBTQIA+, secular and young people inclusive.
All AA meetings are not the same
Not only are the formats and focus of meetings variable, but the general “feel” of a meeting can vary depending on which one you go to. When I first started attending AA meetings, I felt very “off” around some of them. I had a firm belief that the program works, so I made it my mission to find the right meetings for me, and when I landed on a few that felt right for me, I stuck with them. Since each meeting can be different, it is helpful to try others if the first one does not work for you.
How to find the right meeting for you
Although AA is “anonymous” it is not difficult to find a meeting. You can start with their website aa.org. If you are a fan of “apps” they have an app (both Android and IOS) called “meeting guide.” This is an especially useful tool as it will locate meetings for you based on your current location. You can filter this based on days of the week, times of day, meeting format, language and community. This will help you find meetings that are tailored to your needs.
Advice for those considering starting AA
The best advice I can offer is to go with an open mind. Allow yourself to explore what the meetings are all about and recognize that you are not alone. You will find people are welcoming, inviting and encouraging. They understand the struggle of alcoholism, and more importantly, they understand the power of community and its impact on recovery. Lastly, if at first you don’t succeed, try again. If the first meeting does not feel right, try another one.
Editor’s note: Brad M. DeRoma, LIAC, CCTP is an independently licensed addictions counselor, therapist and clinical lead at Scottsdale Recovery Center. He is nine-plus years sober from alcohol. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
