We have a simple format: we typically gather with informal chat about the last week. After the meeting starts, we do a few short readings about SAA, sobriety and the 12 steps and then open the floor for sharing. Members might share about their step work, victories and struggles from the last week, or just ask for feedback on a topic related to their addiction.

At the end of the meeting we pause for reflection, reading a few meditations and the Ottawa Promises.

Most importantly, we have a good time and join in fellowship with other addicts all seeking recovery and healing. Its a great group.

A meeting takes about an hour, though folks often stick around for another 30 minutes or so to talk and catch up.

There are several formats for SAA meetings. Ours uses a ‘feedback’ meeting format. This means that during meeting we all share about fears, sexual temptations, and triggers that make us want to act on our compulsive behaviors. If feedback is desired, then other members of the group may share their wisdom and experience in order to help their fellow addict gain the perspective needed to get through any present struggles and encourage a sense of support and grace. There is never any judgement. Anything said here, stays here.

Sex Addiction experts often recommend separate meetings for people identifying as men or women, or other identity groups, so as to minimize distractions and any reluctance to share deep feelings about the other sexes, be it anger, lust, desire to objectify, or fear of rejection. At a men’s meeting, we feel we are more free to express positive and negative feelings with fellow addicts who share common life experiences based on a male identity. For many men, dealing with hard feelings and talking about intimacy and sexuality can be challenging. Many have experienced a men’s only space as a safe space where healing and recovery takes place.

Getting started is easy! The first step is coming to a meeting on Thursday night. You can also reach out via email, call or text if you would like to speak to a member of the group.

No, we are members of Sex Addicts Anonymous (saa-recovery.org), an independent non-profit organization. SAA is not affiliated with any religion, creed or dogma, though many of us find the spiritual foundations of the 12 steps compliment our faith journeys.

We are very grateful to the New Smyrna UCC Church for providing a meeting space for us every week.