Reflection on 12-Step Meeting Experience

   This week I  attended a Alcoholics Anonymous 12-Step Meeting.  I had no idea what to expect from this meeting and was pretty nervous to attend as an outsider.  This was an open meeting and people who weren't alcoholics were welcome to attend.  This differs from their closed meetings that only alcoholics can attend and are much more personal.  The facilitator was very kind to us and gave us more information on the group. Typically in closed meetings they have rules about not talking over and over or "double dipping" and that you are open to share whatever you want.  They will use their AA book and read a small passage and then discuss it as a group.  In open meetings the format is more informal and people are free to talk multiple times and openly share, but it may not be as personal.  

   During this session the facilitator opened the group by explaining the ground rules.  He explained how since this was an open meeting the floor was open.  He served as a was discussing a part of the AA book and talking about their thoughts on it.  He used a facilitative style of leadership and led the groups direction but definitely gave them autonomy in their discussion.  I think by giving the group autonomy he encouraged discussion.  He also would ask certain people what they thought at times, which was helpful for people who didn't speak up as much.  There were a few group members who spoke more than others and at times it seems the facilitator would speak up or ask someone else their opinion encouraging other group member participation.  

   I feel the environment of the session was not ideal for a group.  There were chairs set up around the edge of the group and then a lot of chairs in the center of the room facing forward.  It wasn't very conducive to talking and seeing other group members.  The people in the front of the center of the room would have to turn around in their chair when they were talking, which seemed awkward.  There was also a lot more chairs than people which made the group seem less intimate. 

   I believe the session was therapeutic and I could definitely see how impactful it could be to someone struggling with addiction.  Some of the group members shared just what the group meant to them and how it was one hour they at least didn't have to worry about drinking.  It felt like a safe place for the members and has been for many of them for 9, 21, and 30 years.  I think hearing and sharing with people who have or are going through the same struggles as you is very encouraging and helpful.  I believe this group to be very client-centered. It is focused on the needs of the client and it provides group members opportunities to encourage and be encouraged by each other.  I really enjoyed attending this group and was thankful for the opportunity.  The experience was a lot different from doing groups with my classmates and provided me with a great real-life example.