All Are Welcome

Types of AA Meetings

Candlelight: Candlelight AA meetings are sessions in which members bring candles, usually white, that represent their hopes and goals. When each member shares, that member lights their candles as they discuss their challenges and successes.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in New York give all members the opportunity to speak on a specific topic related to alcoholism and recovery. Leaders typically find these topics in AA texts, such as Daily Reflections. They will share first, and then others are welcome to contribute to the conversation.

LGBTQ: Selected AA chapters focus on providing a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, and generally welcome LGBTQ+ allies. These groups prioritize members’ recovery and sobriety within a non-heteronormative context.

Meditation: Meditation AA meetings feature physical and emotional calmness as a main method of healing. The meetings open with 15 minutes of private mediation and close with an additional 5 minutes of meditation.

Open: Open AA meetings in New York are accessible to anyone from the community. This includes individuals seeking help for alcohol addiction as well as their friends and loved ones or anyone who wants to learn more about how AA operates and what the 12 step recovery model entails.

Wheelchair Access: Non-ambulatory clients in New York may have wheelchair access in AA centers. These facilities may provide exterior ramps, designated ramps, and open floor spaces.