How to Find an AA Meetings That Feels Right for You

Wilmer D. Talde, Jr.March 20, 2025

Finding the right AA meeting is an important step in your recovery journey. With various meeting formats, group dynamics, and locations available, it may take some time to find the best fit. Whether you’re new to AA or looking for a different meeting experience, knowing what to look for can help you make the most of your recovery support system.

Understanding Different Types of AA Meetings

AA meetings come in different formats to accommodate various preferences and needs. Some of the most common types include:

Open Meetings: Anyone can attend, including family and friends. These meetings provide insight into how AA works.
Closed Meetings: Reserved for those who identify as having a drinking problem, offering a more private setting.
Speaker Meetings: An individual shares their story of experience, strength, and hope, inspiring others in their recovery.
Discussion Meetings: Members openly share their thoughts and experiences on recovery-related topics.
Step Study Meetings: Focused on working through the 12 Steps of AA with guidance from others.

The Importance of Finding the Right Group

Every AA meeting has its own atmosphere, shaped by the personalities of its members. When attending a new meeting, consider:

Group Size: Larger meetings may offer diverse perspectives, while smaller ones provide a close-knit feel.
Meeting Tone: Some groups are serious and structured, while others are more relaxed and conversational.
Shared Experiences: Some meetings cater to specific demographics, such as young people, women, men, or LGBTQ+ individuals.

How to Locate AA Meetings in Santa Cruz

If you're searching for local AA meetings Santa Cruz, there are several ways to find options that suit you:

AA Websites & Directories: The AA Meetings Near Me directory can help you find local meetings with updated schedules.
Word of Mouth: Asking others in recovery can lead you to meetings that have been helpful to them.
Community Centers & Churches: Many AA meetings are held in community spaces open to the public.

What to Expect at Your First Local AA Meetings Santa Cruz

Attending your first local AA meetings Santa Cruz can be intimidating, but knowing what to expect can help ease any concerns:

No Pressure to Share: You can introduce yourself if you choose, but there’s no requirement to speak.
A Welcoming Environment: Members are there to support one another, free from judgment.
Confidentiality: What is shared in meetings stays within the group.

Personal Story: Finding the Right AA Meeting

When I first searched for local AA meetings Santa Cruz, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The first few meetings felt unfamiliar, but I kept attending different ones until I found a group that felt like home. It was a small discussion meeting where I felt comfortable sharing and connecting with others. That meeting became a cornerstone in my recovery.

(Disclaimer: This is an anonymous account based on real experiences within AA. To respect the privacy of members, names and details have been changed.)

Final Thoughts: Keep Searching Until It Feels Right

Finding the right local AA meetings Santa Cruz can take time, but the effort is worth it. A supportive group can make all the difference in your recovery. If you’re looking for more resources, consider tracking your progress with the Sobriety Calculator or seeking additional support from a Therapist Near Me. Transitional housing options like a halfway house can also provide stability. For those beginning their journey, the AA Near Me directory is a helpful resource.

The right local AA meetings Santa Cruz is out there for you. Keep showing up, and you’ll find the support you need.