Cathlamet Group

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: AA clients in Washington use the Big Book as a source of inspiration. The Big Book features the lives of real men and women who overcame alcohol use disorder and can inspire clients to follow their lead.

Closed: In Washington, closed AA meetings are only available to members of AA and people who want to find help for alcohol addiction. Nonalcoholics and general members of the community cannot attend these discussions, which center on topics related to alcoholism and recovery.

Literature: Washington AA literature meetings are support group meetings for anyone in the community who is affected by alcohol addiction. These peer support meetings study the Big Book of AA and other recovery writings by AA founders and leaders as part of a 12-step addiction recovery program. They are open for all and are free to attend.

Open: In Washington, open AA meetings are not restricted to members only. Anyone is welcome to attend and learn more about how the program works and what the 12 step model of recovery includes. This includes individuals seeking help for alcohol addiction as well as nonalcoholics who want to support a friend or loved one in recovery.

Step Meeting: In Washington, step meetings are one way for AA centers to monitor individual progress. Members meet in groups, read Twelve Steps, discuss how the excerpts relate to their own experiences, and make goals for the next meeting.