Serenity Atlanta

Types of AA Meetings

Closed: In Georgia, closed AA meetings are not open to observers or members of the general public. Instead, only members and individuals seeking help for alcohol addiction are invited to attend. Members can share details about their recovery journey and newcomers are welcome to ask questions.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in Georgia are led by a speaker, who opens the meeting by sharing a general topic to discuss. This topic is typically derived from an AA text, such as AA Grapevine or the Big Book. Once the speaker shares their input on the topic, they will open the floor for others to give their opinions and reflections.

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.

Newcomer: In Georgia, AA newcomer meetings are designed for individuals who are uninitiated with the AA program and 12 step model of recovery. These discussions allow space for them to ask questions and learn more, with talking points usually centered on Steps 1 through 3.

Open: In Georgia, anyone in the community can attend open AA meetings. These are available to individuals recovering from alcohol use disorder as well as nonalcoholics who want to learn more about the AA program and how the 12 step recovery model operates. The meetings are informative in nature and may include member input.

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.

Wheelchair Access: In Georgia, AA centers with wheelchair access generally feature ramps and designated parking spots, as needed. The center’s layout allows for safe navigability for clients to participate in the meeting.