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Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: In Illinois, AA meetings often feature discussions centered on the Big Book. Clients read this collection of stories about men and women who overcame alcohol use disorder for inspiration.

Closed: Closed AA meetings in Illinois are not open to outside observers. Instead, only AA members or individuals looking for help with a drinking problem are invited to attend. The discussions center around topics related to alcoholism and recovery and are of particular value to newcomers.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in Illinois allow members to reflect upon and discuss a specific aspect of alcohol addiction and recovery. The leader will usually begin the meeting by referencing an AA text, such as Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. Then, they will invite others to share.

Open: In Illinois, open AA meetings are available to anyone who wants to learn more about the organization and its 12 step model of recovery. Attendees can include individuals currently seeking treatment for alcohol use disorder as well as friends, relatives, and loved ones of someone battling this addiction.

Step Meeting: AA programs in Illinois often include step meetings. In these meetings, members converse about their recovery as it relates to a 12 Step program and strategize goals to make their recovery stronger.