Women’s Way

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: In Illinois, AA meetings often feature discussions centered on the Big Book. Clients read this collection of stories about men and women who overcame alcohol use disorder for inspiration.

Closed: Closed AA meetings in Illinois are not open to outside observers. Instead, only AA members or individuals looking for help with a drinking problem are invited to attend. The discussions center around topics related to alcoholism and recovery and are of particular value to newcomers.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in Illinois allow members to reflect upon and discuss a specific aspect of alcohol addiction and recovery. The leader will usually begin the meeting by referencing an AA text, such as Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. Then, they will invite others to share.

Speaker: Motivational speakers in Illinois AA programs can inspire clients to reinforce their sobriety. Speakers often use a blend of charm, humor, faith, and raw emotions to get their points across.

Women: Illinois AA meetings for women are community support meetings for women who are affected by alcohol addiction, including those who are addicted to alcohol and those who have loved ones with alcohol addiction. These meetings use a 12-step recovery curriculum and are open to women of all ages at no charge.