Friends of Bill W Poulsbo

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: 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.

Came to Believe Book: AA discussions can feature the book Came to Believe. This collection of stories was written by AA members who reflect on their spiritual awakening and how this process has affected their recovery and lives.

Daily Reflections: Daily Reflections is an AA text that compiles insight, experience, and encouragement from various members. Selected contents may be topics of discussions in AA meetings. Members can also adapt reflections into their daily activities.

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.

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.

Speaker: AA programs often include motivational speakers in their line-up. In Washington, speakers effectively appeal to their listeners to avoid alcohol through wit, reason, charm, faith, and emotions.

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.

Wheelchair Access: Washington AA centers generally provide wheelchair access for non-ambulatory clients. These features may include open meeting rooms, restroom access, and amenities. Exterior ramps and designated parking assist in making facilities safe for navigation.

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