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.

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 2009 Al-Anon membership survey shows that nine out of ten newcomers who first came to Al-Anon because of a loved one’s drug addiction later came to better understand the seriousness of that person’s alcohol problem only after attending Al-Anon for a period of time.