What To Expect in an AA Meeting (Virtual And In-person)
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is one of the most widely recognized support programs for individuals seeking recovery from alcohol use disorder (AUD). Whether you attend in person or join virtually, AA offers a welcoming space where you can share experiences, find encouragement, and build a supportive network.
If you’ve never attended a meeting before, it’s normal to feel uncertain or even nervous. Knowing what to expect in an AA meeting can help ease those fears and prepare you for this critical step in your recovery journey.
Why AA Matters in Recovery
Founded in 1935 in Akron, Ohio, AA has grown to include over 120,000 groups worldwide. The program is built on the 12 Steps, a set of guiding principles for achieving and maintaining sobriety. While participation is voluntary, many people credit AA with helping them stay sober long after completing formal treatment.
For many Futures Recovery Healthcare alumni, the AA program is a cornerstone of their aftercare. As part of our comprehensive approach at our luxury rehab in Florida, we introduce clients to various support programs, including AA, so they can find the one that best suits their needs.
What to Expect in an In-Person AA Meeting
While every AA group has its traditions, most in-person meetings follow a similar structure:
- Greetings and Welcome
Some meetings have greeters at the door to welcome attendees and help newcomers feel comfortable. - Seating
You can sit anywhere you like. Newcomers are sometimes encouraged to sit toward the front, but it’s not required. - Opening the Meeting
- Chairperson introduces themselves
- Announcements and meeting guidelines are shared
- The AA Preamble is read
- A passage from the Big Book, such as “How It Works,” is read aloud
- Meeting Format
Formats vary, some are speaker meetings where one person shares their story, others are discussion or step-focused meetings where members share. - Sharing
Members may introduce themselves with their first name and say, “I’m an alcoholic,” but newcomers are never pressured to speak. - Celebrating Sobriety Milestones
Many groups hand out chips or coins to commemorate 24 hours of sobriety, monthly milestones, and yearly anniversaries. - Closing
Meetings often end with a prayer or moment of reflection.
Virtual AA Meetings
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to virtual AA meetings, which remain a popular option for those who prefer flexibility or cannot attend in person. These meetings typically take place on Zoom or similar platforms and follow a similar general structure to in-person meetings.
Benefits of virtual AA meetings include:
- Accessibility from anywhere in the world
- More scheduling options, including late-night or early-morning meetings
- Comfort of attending from home
The Online Intergroup of Alcoholics Anonymous (OIAA) provides a searchable directory of virtual meetings and resources for newcomers.
Tips for Your First AA Meeting
- Arrive Early or Log in a Few Minutes Before: Gives you time to get settled and meet others.
- Keep an Open Mind: Every meeting feels a little different, try a few before deciding if AA is right for you.
- No Pressure to Share: Listening is a powerful first step.
- Exchange Contact Information: Building connections is key to supporting outside meetings.
How Futures Recovery Healthcare Supports Long-Term Sobriety
AA can be a powerful tool for sustaining recovery, but it’s most effective when combined with evidence-based clinical treatment and ongoing support. At Futures Recovery Healthcare, we:
- Introduce clients to AA and other peer-support options during treatment
- Offer an active alumni program with events nationwide
- Provide individualized care for AUD, SUD, and co-occurring disorders
- Maintain connections through aftercare planning and alumni engagement
Take the First Step
Whether you choose in-person or virtual meetings, AA provides community, accountability, and hope for long-term recovery.
If you or a loved one is ready to begin the journey, contact Futures Recovery Healthcare to learn about our programs and how we can help you build a strong foundation for sobriety.
