Mesquite Bigtown Group

Types of AA Meetings

Big Book: In Texas, the Big Book has a prominent place in AA meetings. Clients are inspired to overcome their alcohol use disorder by reading about the lives of real people who did the same.

Closed: In Texas, closed AA meetings are only available to members of AA or people seeking help for alcohol addiction. General members of the public cannot attend. The discussions are informal and typically focus on one specific aspect of addiction recovery.

Discussion: AA discussion meetings in Texas allow all members to participate and share their thoughts on a given subject. The subjects pertain to alcoholism and recovery and usually tie into an AA text, such as As Bill Sees It or AA Grapevine. Leaders will share first, explaining their reflections on the topic and any related experiences.

Newcomer: AA newcomer meetings in Texas allow members to share more about the program with people in recovery who aren’t as familiar with it. Individuals who are new to AA can use this time to learn more about the program, ask questions, and find support.

Open: In Texas, open AA meetings allow anyone from the community to attend and learn more about how AA operates, what the 12 step recovery model includes, and how they can support a friend or loved one in their alcohol addiction recovery. These meetings are available to alcoholics and nonalcoholics alike.

Speaker: Texas AA centers can encourage their members to resist relapse by inviting speakers. Motivational Speakers are usually AA alumni and use a blend of humor, charm, reason, faith, and emotions to dissuade their listeners from drinking.

Step Meeting: In Texas, AA chapters include step meetings in their programs. In the meetings, clients read from AA literature, discuss how the passages match up with their experience, and suggest ways on how to improve their recovery.

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.

Wheelchair Access: Texas AA centers may have wheelchair access for non-ambulatory clients, including ramps and designated parking. The centers may also have open floor plans and safe navigation for amenities, including accessible restrooms.