12-Step Programs in Missouri

AA focuses on alcohol; NA addresses all drugs. There are also fellowship-specific groups such as Cocaine Anonymous (CA), Marijuana Anonymous, and Crystal Meth Anonymous. Missouri typically hosts multiple fellowships; Saint Louis and larger cities have the widest selection.

A typical meeting lasts one hour and includes readings from the fellowship’s literature, a speaker sharing their recovery experience, or a group discussion. Most Missouri meetings close with the Serenity Prayer or similar. First-timers are invited — not required — to introduce themselves.

A sponsor is an experienced member who guides a newer member through the 12 Steps and provides one-on-one support. Sponsors typically have at least one year of continuous recovery. Finding a sponsor is recommended but not required for attendance at Missouri meetings.

Yes — 12-step can complement treatment for co-occurring mental health conditions. Double Trouble in Recovery (DTR) and Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA) are specialized 12-step fellowships for dual-diagnosis members. Missouri dual-focus meetings are available in many urban areas.

Yes. Many Missouri members of all faith traditions work 12-step successfully. The program does not specify any deity; members shape the "higher power" concept in terms consistent with their religious or philosophical beliefs.

Yes. You can use your first name or a nickname. Most members use first names. Full names are not required and are discouraged in public meeting contexts to preserve the tradition of anonymity.

Yes. AA and NA officially affirm that members on prescribed medication, including methadone and buprenorphine, are welcome. Some local meetings are more or less MAT-friendly; Methadone Anonymous (MA) is a 12-step fellowship specifically supportive of MAT patients.

No. 12-step fellowships are not funded by government, corporations, or institutions — per Tradition 7 they are fully self-supported through voluntary member contributions. This independence is a founding principle of the model.

No. Most online meetings allow members to keep cameras off; many encourage it for anonymity. Display names may be a first name or initial. Missouri members who value maximum privacy often attend camera-off.

Yes — and combining is generally more effective than either alone. Many Missouri therapists incorporate 12-step Facilitation as an evidence-based modality; insurance and MO HealthNet cover this clinical approach alongside peer fellowship attendance.