Alphabet Soup – LGBTQ-IA

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: Missouri AA programs often have Big Book discussions to inspire clients. The Big Book contains dozens of stories about women and men who overcame alcohol use disorder.

Gay: Gay AA chapters can consist of members who are homosexual men or are simply gay-friendly. Topics in discussion are frequently related to issues facing gay men and their recovery.

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.

Lesbian: Lesbian AA meetings are intended as safe spaces for homosexual women and their allies to meet. Discussions generally focus on issues and challenges that lesbians face in their recovery.

Open: Open AA meetings in Missouri are accessible to anyone in the community. During this time, AA members will share their experiences and recovery journeys with the group, allowing attendees to learn firsthand how the program works, what the 12 step recovery model includes, and how they can support their friend or loved one seeking help for alcohol addiction.

Secular: Secular AA meetings lack a faith-based component of healing and tend to focus on practical experiences and challenges. Secular meetings are usually attended by atheist, agnostic, and non-religious members.

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.