Frequently Asked Questions

How does anonymity work?

SLAA is very protective of the anonymity of its members. Accordingly, meetings are normally closed to outsiders and those who are merely curious. At meetings and for all program matters, we only identify ourselves by our first name (and sometimes the initial of our surname, to avoid confusion with others who have the same first name). We also keep confidential the proceedings of meetings and minutes are not kept.

How much does the program cost?

There is no charge for SLAA membership or attending meetings. However, a basket will be passed around at a meeting for voluntary contributions to cover meeting costs such as tea and coffee, rent and insurance.

What happens at meetings?

Meetings have a variety of formats including guest speaker and steps study. Meetings allow members to share their experience, strength and hope in the program and what’s presently happening for them spiritually and emotionally. Australian meetings generally last 1½ hours although there are some 1 hour meetings. You can gain additional understanding of meetings by viewing a sample SLAA meeting format detailed at our international web site.

Do I have to speak at a meeting?

No, you do not. You may be asked to identify yourself by your first name only.

What’s a Power Greater than Ourselves?

We in SLAA believe we suffer from an illness which can be alleviated by a spiritual experience. A “Power Greater than Ourselves” is a power by which we can obtain this spiritual experience. If we are religious, this may be our God; if not; it may be as simple as a SLAA group. When we speak of God, we mean the god of your own understanding. SLAA is not a religious program, nor is it associated with any religion (nor with any other organisation at all).

How long does the program last?

The program lasts for as long (or as short) as you want. There is no set period.

How do I become a member?

SLAA has no formal joining process. A member is any person who has a desire to be free from sex and love addiction. All SLAA meetings welcome newcomers – you can just show up. Please join us at one of the face-to-face, phone or online meetings listed on this site.

I went to a meeting but no one was there.

The meeting may have ceased. If this happens two weeks in a row, please e-mail our meetings list co-ordinator so that we may remove the meeting from our lists.

What is HOW ?

‘HOW’ stands for being Honest, Open-minded and Willing to listen. The HOW concept is not endorsed by SLAA. It is a set of tools for working the 12 steps which some of us have found to be effective in our struggle with sex and love addiction. Some meetings practice the HOW approach and others do not.