Rochester SAA is pleased to be hosting the 2026 International Convention May 22nd 25th
Our Diversity in Rochester SAA
You belong here
Many of us arrive feeling isolated, ashamed, or convinced that no one could possibly relate to our experiences. After attending our first meeting, any of us were surprised to discover that we were not alone, and that there were people from all walks of life who truly understood what we had been through.
As we began to walk the wide path of recovery, we realized that our healing is made stronger by the diverse experiences of every person in the room. We opened our hearts to a hope that doesn't just come from one source, but from a beautiful variety of backgrounds, identities, and life journeys. We believe that every story has value and that no one is an outsider here. In this spirit of welcome, we embrace the third tradition of SAA: that the only requirement for membership is a desire to stop addictive sexual behavior. No matter who you are or where you’ve been, there is a place for you among us.
We aren’t just “open”, we are inclusive.
Our Rochester fellowship consists of people across:
race, ethnicity, nationality, and language background
gender identity and gender expression
sexual orientation and relationship structures
age, ability/disability, and neurodiversity
faith traditions, spirituality, agnosticism, and atheism
legal, and economic realities
If you have a desire to stop addictive sexual behavior, you are welcome here.
Meeting variety in Rochester
Meetings are the heart of recovery. Different rooms feel different—and that’s okay.
In and around Rochester, you may find:
closed meetings (for those who identify with the problem and want to stop)
open meetings (where visitors/professionals may attend—check the listing)
format differences (step study, literature, speaker, sharing-focused, etc.)
identity- or experience-centered meetings (e.g., LGBT-focused, couples, men’s, women’s, intimacy/sexual avoidance) when available
If a particular meeting doesn’t immediately resonate with you, we encourage you to explore others to find the environment that best supports your growth. Many members eventually choose a "Home Group" to attend consistently. Here they may feel the most comfortable forming deeper roots, practicing service, and allowing themselves to be truly known. While this home group provides a stable foundation for recovery, continuing to visit a variety of meetings allows us to stay connected to the diverse range of strength and hope available throughout our local community.
Respect, safety, and how we treat each other
To protect everyone’s ability to recover, Rochester SAA meetings aim to be:
confidential: what you hear here stays here
non-judgmental: we don’t “rank” anyone’s story or define others’ sobriety
identity-respecting: we use the names/pronouns people ask for
anti-harassment: unwanted contact, pressure, or predatory behavior isn’t “just part of recovery” and isn’t welcome
If something happens that compromises your safety or your anonymity, you can reach out to local trusted servants (meeting secretary/chair) or use the Rochester contact info below.
Accessibility
We want meetings to be as accessible as possible. When available, Rochester meetings may offer:
virtual or hybrid options
wheelchair-accessible spaces
clear expectations for newcomers (what happens, what to share, what not to share)
If you have an accessibility need, contact Rochester SAA and we’ll try to help you find the best option.
Contact (Rochester SAA)
For info on Rochester-area virtual and in-person meetings:
Phone: (585) 270-1794
Email: saainrochester@gmail.com
For information about diversity from ISO of SAA including womens and LGBTQ resources
go to: https://saa-recovery.org/diversity/
______________________________________________________________
Diversity Testimonials:
“For a long time, I feared that my struggle with sex addiction made my gender identity 'less than' or invalid. I had even been told by a professional that my behaviors were 'male-coded,' which left me feeling like I didn't fit anywhere. But in the LGBTQ meeting rooms of SAA, the mirrors were everywhere. I heard my truth spoken by people of all genders and orientations. It was there I realized that the 12 steps weren't a tool to change who I am, but a path to becoming my most authentic self, sober and whole.”
- Non-binary SAA member from Tuesday LGBTQ/Womens meeting.