Resources for Professionals
Al-Anon is a mutual support group of peers who share their experience in applying the Al-Anon principles to problems related to the effects of a problem drinker in their lives. It is not group therapy and is not led by a counselor or therapist. This support network complements and supports professional treatment.
Alateen is a peer support group for teens who are struggling with the effects of someone else’s problem drinking. Many Alateen groups meet at the same time and location as an Al-Anon group. Alateen meetings are open only to teenagers. Alateen is not a program for young people seeking sobriety.
No advance notification or written referral is necessary to attend an Al-Anon or Alateen meeting. Anyone affected by someone else’s drinking is welcome to attend.
There are no dues or fees. Groups are self-supporting, and usually pass a basket around for a voluntary contribution to pay for rent or Al-Anon literature.
Encourage your clients to try Al-Anon, even if they minimize the problem with alcohol. The 2015 Al-Anon membership survey shows that 40% of newcomers who first came to Al-Anon because of a loved one’s drug addiction and later came to better understand the seriousness of that person’s alcohol problem only after attending Al-Anon for a period of time.
Finding Hope in Al‑Anon
Alcoholism is a chronic, progressive primary brain disorder with characteristic signs and symptoms. In the progression of continued
Al‑Anon: Penicillin for the Family Disease of Alcoholism
Alcoholism is a disease of isolation. Because many alcoholics become intoxicated in the presence of others, the illusion
My Professional Experience with Al‑Anon
During my 53 years of working in mental health and addiction recovery, I have seen a number of
Alcoholism affects the entire family; what can families do when the alcoholic continues to drink alcohol?
Alcoholism affects the entire family; what can families do when the
The Benefits of Alateen: A Teacher’s Viewpoint
One of my students wrote a moving essay about his experience with Alateen and how it is
Alcoholism is as harmful to the family’s well-being as any drug addiction
Alcoholism is as harmful to the family’s well‑being as any drug