Turn It Over

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: New York AA programs often use the Big Book as a centerpiece in discussions. This book contains dozens of real stories about people who successfully managed their alcohol use disorder.

Closed: Closed AA meetings in New York are not open to public community members who want to observe the discussion. The only people who can attend are AA members and people seeking help for alcohol addiction. The discussions are informal and everyone can share.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in New York give all members the opportunity to speak on a specific topic related to alcoholism and recovery. Leaders typically find these topics in AA texts, such as Daily Reflections. They will share first, and then others are welcome to contribute to the conversation.

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.

Newcomer: In New York, AA newcomer meetings offer an opportunity for people who are new to AA to learn more about the program as they begin their sobriety journey. Experienced members normally lead the meetings, which may include group discussions or follow a more structured lesson format.

Step Meeting: In New York, AA centers use step meetings to enhance members’ recovery. Groups read and incorporate excerpts from AA texts into their own stage of the 12 Step Program. The group makes plans for greater progress by their next meeting.

Tradition Study: Tradition Study sessions are AA reflections about the organization. Members discuss how AA chapters can be more successful in their purpose through greater unity and its outreach programs.