New Milford Noon Meeting Group

Types of AA Meetings

As Bill Sees It: As Bill Sees It is a collection of essays and reflections from AA’s founder, Bill W., about the organization and its purpose. The book is often referenced in AA meetings to encourage members to individually and collectively discuss their recovery.

Big Book: Connecticut AA meetings may use the Big Book as a main discussion topic. The Big Book features real stories of men and women who overcame alcohol use disorder, and is a source of inspiration for clients.

Discussion: In Connecticut, AA discussion meetings revolve around one specific topic. A member serving as the leader will open the meeting by referencing an AA text, such as AA Grapevine, the Big Book, or Daily Reflections. Then, other members can participate and share their own feelings about the topic and its relation to their recovery journey.

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.

Living Sober: AA centers may have selected sessions set aside for Living Sober discussions. This text is secular in nature, and focuses on practical ways that members have used to stay sober one day at a time.

Newcomer: In Connecticut, AA newcomer meetings offer an opportunity for individuals in the early stages of alcoholism recovery to learn more about AA, ask questions, and receive resources. The discussions usually focus on the first three steps of AA’s 12 step program.

Open: In Connecticut, open AA meetings are available to any interested member of the public, including individuals who aren’t seeking treatment for an alcohol use disorder. This gives participants the opportunity to learn more about AA and the 12 step model of recovery.

Step Meeting: Step meetings are part of Connecticut AA programs. In these meetings, participants converse about the stages of their recovery, compare their experiences to those in AA texts, and make goals for strengthening their recovery.

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.

Wheelchair Access: In Connecticut, AA meetings that have wheelchair accessibility allow clients to park in designated parking and ramps. Non-ambulatory clients can safely navigate meeting halls, restrooms, and additional amenities.