Information for Professionals

Al‑Anon Family Groups is a community resource that provides support to anyone affected by a relative or friend’s drinking. There are over 24,000 Al‑Anon groups and nearly 1,500 Alateen groups meeting in 118 countries.

Al-Anon is a mutual support group of peers who share their experience in applying the Al-Anon principles to problems related to the effects of a problem drinker in their lives. It is not group therapy and is not led by a counselor or therapist. This support network complements and supports professional treatment.

Alateen is a peer support group for teens who are struggling with the effects of someone else’s problem drinking. Many Alateen groups meet at the same time and location as an Al-Anon group. Alateen meetings are open only to teenagers. Alateen is not a program for young people seeking sobriety.

There are no dues or fees. Groups are self-supporting, and usually pass a basket around for a voluntary contribution to pay for rent or Al-Anon literature.

No advance notification or written referral is necessary to attend an Al-Anon or Alateen meeting. Anyone affected by someone else’s drinking is welcome to attend.

Professionals are welcome to attend any Al-Anon meeting listed as an “open” meeting. “Closed” meetings are only for family and friends of problem drinkers.

If you are looking for someone from Al-Anon or Alateen to address your clients, family group, or organization, please send your request to info@salemareaalanon.org or call (503) 370-7363 and leave a message.