Support groups offer a unique avenue to share your experience and learn from others’ experiences. A group of strangers with one thing in common come together to learn and grow. It is difficult, if not impossible, to mimic this type of supportive network in any other kind of therapy session or treatment.
While there are all kinds of support groups available, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) are specifically tailored to assist those with alcohol addiction and drug abuse problems. These programs utilize a trained group leader or licensed counselor as part of their sessions. Addiction problems in Venice can be complicated, so having this extra layer of guidance and support is particularly valuable.
Some rehab centers will host support group meetings as part of their program. However, there are stand-alone options to attend AA and NA meetings in Venice as well. This guide provides an overview of these helpful programs and includes information about AA and NA meetings near you.
AA Meeting in Venice, Florida
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a helpful source of information, support, and companionship for anyone dealing with alcoholism. Everyone is welcome at these meetings; the only qualification is that the individual is dealing with a drinking problem and genuinely wants to fight the addiction and move on with life. In some groups, family members and friends who are living with someone dealing with a drinking problem are also invited to the meetings.
AA meetings all focus on the 12 steps. Those 12 steps are the foundation of the entire AA program. The 12 levels, while also somewhat of a “how to,” correspondingly represent the underlying principles of AA. They provide a means to overcome the need to drink and empower members to lead productive, fulfilling lives without alcohol.
Finding AA Meeting Near Me
AA meetings in Venice are designed to be safe spaces where you can talk about your experiences with a group of people who are going through the same thing. You can also learn from other people who may be at different stages in the recovery process. Members provide guidance based on their own experience and knowledge.
- Whether the group is co-ed
- Whether the group is open to anyone or just those who are dealing with alcohol dependency
- The location of the meeting
- Whether you like the leadership associated with the sessions
- Whether the size of the group meets your preferences
In most circumstances, the best way to know if a group is going to work for you is to go to a meeting or two. Looking through listings in your area may not tell you much about the sessions themselves.
Alcoholics Anonymous, District 5 covers Venice and several other South Florida locations. You can connect with the Intergroup Service Committee of the Fifth District, Inc. by visiting their website.
Reformed Community Church
1600 Banyan Dr.
Venice, Florida 34285
Good Shepard Episcopal Church
1115 Center Rd.
Venice, Florida 34285
Church of the Nazarene
1535 E Venice Ave
Venice, Florida 34292
You can also visit the Alcoholics Anonymous website to find more meeting locations in your area.
NA Meetings in Venice, Florida
Narcotics Anonymous (NA) is also based on a similar 12-step program. It was founded in 1953 as a group to help those who are struggling with drug addiction. It is also helpful for those who want ongoing group support as they cope with cravings, behavior issues, and other correlated problems. Venice NA meetings focus on encouraging others to stay sober and learn to live life without the crutch of narcotics.
NA meetings commonly use the same principles and guidance provided in AA meetings. Like AA, NA meetings also attempt to foster fellowship and openness to change and growth. Working through issues as you journey toward sobriety in a group setting that is supportive and non-judgment can be absolutely vital to the success of someone who is struggling with addiction. Getting life back to “normal” is a gradual transition that takes both time and effort.
Venice NA meetings are always free and open to the public. They will vary on the atmosphere, individual members, and leadership. Finding the right group for you may take some time and trial and error.
Finding NA Meetings Near Me
Some groups may tailor to a specific stage in the recovery process while others work for anyone on the recovery journey.
Saint Mark’s Church
513 Nassau Street South
Venice, Florida 34285
Emmanuel Lutheran Church
800 South Tamiami Trail
Venice, Florida 34285
Salvation Army
1051 Albee Farm Road
Venice, Florida 34285
Church of the Nazarene
1535 East Venice Ave
Venice, Florida 34292
Venice Bible Church – Youth Center
2455 Shamrock Drive
Venice, Florida 34293
Unity Church of Venice
125 North Jackson road
Venice, Florida 34292
At The Recovery Village, support groups are a vital part of the treatment and recovery process. Group therapy sessions are a cornerstone of every level of care offered, including both inpatient and aftercare. Contact The Recovery Village to learn more.