Find Gambling Meetings by Location

Gamblers Anonymous (GA) meetings are free, peer-led support groups where individuals recovering from compulsive gambling gather to share their stories and recovery strategies. Founded in 1957 in Los Angeles, GA operates on a non-professional, anonymous basis using the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous.

1. Everyone is welcome: Open meetings invite members, newcomers, family, friends, and anyone interested.
   
2. Different meeting styles: Choose from speaker sessions, step studies, discussions, beginner-friendly meetings, or topic-focused gatherings.
3. No fees required: Meetings are fully supported by voluntary contributions from members.
4. Confidential and anonymous: Only first names are used; everything shared stays private within the room.

Meetings last 60–90 minutes and are held daily in hundreds of locations across all 50 states, plus online and telephone options.

GA is for anyone whose life has been affected by compulsive gambling, including:

1. Individuals struggling with gambling: Anyone who feels their gambling is out of control or causing harm.
2. Family and friends: Loved ones who want to understand gambling addiction and support recovery.
3. Curious newcomers: People considering whether GA could help them or someone they care about.
4. Observers and professionals: Those interested in learning more about GA, its approach, or supporting members.

All are welcome—meetings are open, anonymous, and nonjudgmental.

GA’s recovery program is built on the Twelve Steps, a practical, step-by-step process that helps members achieve and maintain abstinence from gambling through honesty, accountability, and spiritual growth (not tied to any religion).

Participants work through the steps with a sponsor, a seasoned member who provides individual support. The process covers:

1. 12-Step Program: GA follows a structured 12-step recovery process adapted for gambling addiction.
2. Peer Support: Members share experiences, strength, and hope to help each other stop gambling and stay in recovery.
3. Regular Meetings: Weekly meetings provide a safe, supportive environment to discuss challenges and progress.
4. Voluntary Participation: Members choose their level of involvement; attendance is encouraged but never forced.
5. Anonymity: First names only; what’s shared in the meeting stays in the meeting.
6. Self-Supported: GA is funded entirely through voluntary contributions from members—there are no dues or fees.

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop gambling. Recovery is a lifelong journey, measured one day at a time.

Regular meeting attendance is a cornerstone of lasting recovery. While GA is not the only path, discontinuing meetings can increase the risk of relapse by:

1. Support Decreases: GA meetings provide regular peer support, accountability, and encouragement. Missing meetings can make it harder to stay on track.
2. Risk of Relapse: Without the regular guidance and connection of the group, the risk of returning to gambling may increase.
3. Recovery Is Still Possible: Stopping meetings doesn’t erase progress made, but ongoing participation strengthens recovery.
4. You Can Return Anytime: GA is always open—you can resume attending meetings at any time without judgment.

Attendance is voluntary, but staying connected helps maintain recovery and access to support when challenges arise.