Finding Support: AA Meetings in Ottawa

If you're looking to change your relationship with alcohol, Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offers a supportive community and a clear path forward. In Ottawa, you'll find AA meetings in the city center, the suburbs, and online—making it easy to get the help you need.

What Is Alcoholics Anonymous?

Alcoholics Anonymous is a worldwide fellowship of people who support each other in staying sober. The program is built around the 12 Steps, which guide members through recovery.

The 12 Steps of AA

• Admitting powerlessness over alcohol
• Believing a higher power can help
• Deciding to turn your life over to that power
• Taking a personal moral inventory
• Admitting past wrongs
• Being ready to let the higher power correct your shortcomings
• Humbly asking for those shortcomings to be removed
• Making a list of people you've harmed
• Making amends to those people
• Continuing to take personal inventory
• Seeking a deeper spiritual connection
• Helping others and practicing these principles daily

AA Meetings in Ottawa

Ottawa has many AA meetings to choose from. Here are a few options:

City Center Meetings

• Ottawa Sunday Morning Group: 251 Bank Street, Sundays at 10:00 AM
• Downtown Discussion Group: 50 Laurier Avenue East, Wednesdays at 7:00 PM
• Hope and Healing Group: 123 Main Street, Fridays at 8:00 PM

Suburban Meetings

• Kanata Serenity Group: 110 McCurdy Drive, Tuesdays at 7:30 PM
• Nepean Beginners Group: 60 Waller Street, Mondays at 6:00 PM
• Orleans Unity Group: 2205 Arch Street, Thursdays at 7:00 PM

Virtual Meetings

• Ottawa Online Group: Daily meetings at various times
• Glebe Virtual Group: Saturdays at 10:00 AM on Zoom

How AA Helps You Change

AA meetings support recovery in several important ways:

• Providing a supportive community
• Offering a structured program and accountability
• Giving emotional and psychological support
• Sharing practical advice and strategies
• Providing encouragement through success stories

Your First AA Meeting

Feeling nervous about your first meeting? Here’s what to expect:

• A welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere
• Sharing is optional—you can just listen
• Strict confidentiality
• A diverse group of people
• Helpful literature and resources

Finding the Right Meeting

To find a meeting that works for you:

• Pick a time that fits your schedule
• Try different meeting formats
• Choose a location where you feel comfortable
• Visit a few different groups
• Use the AA Ottawa Intergroup website for updated listings

Staying Committed

Recovery takes commitment. Here are a few tips:

• Set realistic goals
• Build a support network
• Practice self-care
• Stay active in the program

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the main purpose of AA? To offer support and community for people working toward sobriety.
• Are meetings free? Yes, though voluntary donations are accepted.
• Do I need to sign up? No, just show up.
• Can I bring someone with me? At open meetings, yes. Closed meetings are for those seeking help for themselves.
• What if I don’t want to share? You’re welcome to listen until you’re ready.
• How do virtual meetings work? They’re held online via platforms like Zoom and offer the same support as in-person meetings.
• Where can I find meeting schedules? Check the AA Ottawa Intergroup website.

Whether you join a meeting downtown, in the suburbs, or online, AA in Ottawa offers a supportive and practical way to take control of your relationship with alcohol.