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Alcoholics Anonymous: A Moving Experience
Introduction
Alcoholics Anonymous is the most widely used recovery program for alcoholism. A.A Fact File (2005) defines Alcoholics Anonymous as “ a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism” (p.6). Alcoholism is a growing and widespread problem in our society. It has caused far reaching physical and psychological effects, not only for the alcoholics but for other members of the family also.

History of AA
A. A, also known as Alcoholics Anonymous, was founded in 1935 by two hopeless alcoholics in Akron, Ohio. The two founders were Bill W., a New York stockbroker and Dr. Bob. S., an Akron surgeon. Bill W. learned that helping other alcoholics was the key to maintaining his own sobriety, the principle that became the twelfth step in the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. Since its inception in 1935, AA has helped millions of individuals to achieve sobriety and serenity. Alcoholics Anonymous currently boasts of having over 100,000 groups with over 2 million members in 150 countries.

AA’s place in the mental health field and MFT and couples counseling
Harvard Mental Health Journal (2007) stated that Alcoholics Anonymous is the “oldest, best known, and most successful mutual help organization on earth. Its millions of members make it the most widely used treatment for alcoholism, and it has inspired many imitators, including Narcotics Anonymous” (p.4). Additionally, most mental health professionals support and endorse A.A as a treatment modality. Many members seek professional counseling or psychotherapy. Counselors and therapists refer patients to A.A and many incorporate the 12-step principles into their programs.

The 12-step Program
According to Harvard Mental Health Letter (2007), the...