Early Bird Group

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: Clients in Maryland AA centers often use the Big Book for inspiration. The book contains stories about real people who successfully controlled alcohol use disorder.

Closed: In Maryland, closed AA meetings are not accessible to the general public. The only people who can attend are current members and individuals who recognize they have a problem with drinking and want to find help. Discussions are informal and participation is encouraged.

Grapevine: Grapevine is a monthly magazine published by AA. Its contents, written by AA members, generally feature the experiences of individuals with alcohol use disorder, and articles are often discussed in AA meetings.

Open: In Maryland, anyone in the community can attend open AA meetings. This includes individuals seeking treatment for alcohol use disorder and nonalcoholics who want to understand more about the program. Family, relatives, and loved ones of alcoholics can attend AA meetings to learn about addiction and what to expect as their loved one recovers.

Step Meeting: Step meetings are a central part of AA programs in Maryland. Here, members read passages from AA texts like Twelve Steps, discuss how they have used these steps in their recovery, and make plans for improvement for their next meeting.

Tradition Study: Tradition Study sessions are AA reflections about the organization. Members discuss how AA chapters can be more successful in their purpose through greater unity and its outreach programs.

Transgender: Transgender AA meetings provide safe spaces for transgender individuals and their allies to meet. These groups may discuss issues and challenges related to alcohol use disorder that transgender individuals face.