Bristol Group

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: AA programs in Virginia frequently use the Big Book to inspire participants. The Big Book contains stories about real people who overcame alcohol use disorder.

Discussion: In Virginia, AA discussion meetings are structured around a particular topic that relates to alcohol addiction and recovery. Leaders will typically share first, referencing an AA text such as the Big Book before sharing their personal reflections. Then, other members can talk about what the topic means to them.

Open: In Virginia, open AA meetings are fully accessible to the public. Members may share their personal experiences with alcohol addiction and recovery while observers can listen and learn. These meetings are informational in nature, welcoming both alcoholics as well as anyone who wants to understand more about the program and its 12 step recovery model.

Women: Virginia AA meetings for women are women-only peer support meetings for community members who are affected by alcohol addiction - women who are addicted to alcohol as well as those who have loved ones suffering from alcoholism. Open for women of all ages to attend at no cost, these meetings offer peer support and are guided by a 12-step recovery program.