I learned after months in program that there is a sub-group of sex addiction fellowships that only work from the original 12-Step recovery book (The Alcoholics Anonymous "Big Book" - linked here).
The reasoning behind this, is that the AA "Big Book" is the original, undiluted source of 12-Step recovery, containing specific instructions for how to work the program.
There are pros and cons to this approach, in my experience, and I've been enjoying the different types of meetings they have. One pro is that I can attend these meetings for any fellowship, since they are working from the same material.
Another positive to this approach, is that people work the steps much faster in this program, usually around 2 months. This ensures that sponsors are more available here than elsewhere.
I found this video to be a terrific intro to sex addiction and 12 Steps, courtesy of Primary Purpose SAA.
This is an image shown to newcomers, from the TAG (Taking Action Group) of Primary Purpose SAA.
It's a great way of explaining the Mind + Body problem of addiction, and the solution.
- Primary Purpose SAA
Not all virtual meetings listed here, but it is one of the most complete directories. Note, the Friday meeting is on Gmeets and not Zoom. - Primary Purpose SLAA
These meetings have a lot of women in recovery, good for anyone looking for a female sponsor.
I find the organization and pacing of this meeting to be top-notch. - Taking Action Group SAA
This group is not listed on the SAAPP website. It is in the directory here though, with multiple meetings per week. They have a large group, with a strong Christian representation. It is very well organized and well attended. They have a pamphlet here.
You can search "SAAPP" in this link for other meetings as well.
These meetings are very different from others. Rather than use a therapy-model format where people can "check in" or "get current" on what is going on in life, these meetings often only allow sponsors and people who have worked the 12 Steps to reflect (although anyone can speak in fellowship).
The purpose of them is to read from the AA "Big Book" and relay the precise instructions for recovery, without distraction.
- AA Big Book 4th Edition
- AA Big Book 4th Edition (by Chapter)
(Links to AA Netherlands)
- Quotes On Amends (PDF)
This is a collection of relevant quotes to Step 9. I was disappointed to find this step diluted in later programs, including the "Green Book" and Answers In The Heart.The original 12 Step instructions demand courage from us to fix the wreckage of our past, despite the personal consequences.
I have noticed atheist and agnostics groups tend to focus on this step more.
