Experiences Leading Groups:

The Benefits of Alcoholics Anonymous and Group Facilitations

One of the most gratifying and transformative experiences in my life was going to my first Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) group meeting. AA is a support and recovery group that is entirely facilitated by former addicts. It is the original 12-step group format. The purpose of AA is to enable people to have a life in recovery and overcome the grip of their addiction. AA is based upon a commitment to abstinence. It is one of the oldest types of support groups of its kind. There is a bible, called the Big Book, which outlines the basic principles of the group, and which guides the facilitation of the group.

Some aspects of AA which are unique are that there are open and closed meetings. Open meetings are for recovering addicts, their families, friends, and people contemplating...

Closed meetings are for members who are actively trying to stay sober (even if they have recently lapsed). Membership is anonymous. Group members go by first names and admit to powerlessness over alcohol. Participation is voluntary, although some people may come to the group based upon the pressures that they have...…conclude with the serenity prayer.

One of the great advantages of AA is its highly structured format. AA has lasted as long as it has, and has formed the core of other sobriety group therapies, because its format works. As a facilitator, a great deal of the work has already been done for me. Also, all members of the group share a common purpose, even though some of them may have varying levels of commitment, or may be struggling with personal issues with friends and family members. Sometimes issues may trigger very angry personal responses among group members, because there are common themes…