Expert Opinion
Dr. Stacey's Opinion
Dr. Stacey shares from her personal experience about the benefit to patients through cooperation with A.A.
What can we offer?
Breaking Through the Walls of Denial
A Supportive Community
What tools can we offer?
Contact List
It is recommended to keep a list of phone numbers of local A.A. members who can speak with the patient or accompany them to their first meeting. Arriving with a seasoned member helps dispel initial fears. This list can be requested through the helpline.
Calling from the Clinic
Some professionals have the patient call the A.A. helpline while still sitting in their office, thereby seizing the window of opportunity for immediate help.
Follow-up Treatment
During follow-up visits, it is recommended to ask the patient how frequently they attend A.A. meetings and whether they have already found a "sponsor" to guide them.
How can we handle patient objections?
Patients will often raise concerns about the program with you. Here are the answers you can provide them.
I am afraid of exposing my identity
The program is based on absolute anonymity. No one is required to disclose identifying details outside the room, and we never keep records or track members.
I am not a religious person.
A.A. is not a religious program and is not connected to any religious body. It is a spiritual program that requires only open-mindedness, and we have many atheists and agnostics in our ranks. The concept of a "Higher Power" is left entirely to each member's personal understanding.
I don't want to stand up and speak in front of everyone.
There is absolutely no obligation to share or speak in meetings. You can simply come, sit, and listen.
I don't want to stop drinking completely.
The program does not require a lifetime commitment from the patient, but rather focuses on abstaining from drinking "one day at a time" (24 hours). The only requirement for A.A. membership is a desire to stop drinking, and even those who are still drinking but are beginning to develop a desire for change are warmly welcomed.
Invitation to Lectures, Workshops, and Collaborations
Our cooperation and public information committee representatives are always available and ready to come to you.
Informational lectures for medical staff, social workers, and welfare teams
Joint panels in rehab centers, hospitals, correctional facilities, and treatment institutions
We would be glad to invite you as observers to an open A.A. meeting, which is also intended for professionals, so you can see first-hand how the program works and experience its results.
How does it really work? Articles, answers, and further reading
It is natural to have questions about the program. We have gathered all the information needed here to understand how the Steps work in practice and what awaits you on the way.
