SA 12-Step Workshop, FAQ
A two-day workshop for SA Members that takes them through all 12 Steps of Sexaholics Anonymous.
What is the aim? To work all 12 Steps of Sexaholics Anonymous in two days, and so experience a spiritual awakening. This is usually experienced as a profound change in feelings, thinking, attitudes, or beliefs.
How is this done? Steps 1-8 and 10-12 will actually be fully worked over the two days. Step 9 will start but will finish. After the workshop, it is recommended that participants complete Step 9 with their sponsor, as soon as possible, and continue to work Steps 10-12, on a daily basis.
What’s involved? As described in the book Alcoholics Anonymous, the 12 Steps are a series of actions, which include praying, meditating, writing, and sharing. All such actions are voluntary. Participants may baulk at any of the Steps, though this is not recommended. Anyone who does is welcome to remain in the workshop – as an observer – or to leave, as preferred.
Who can attend? The only requirement for attendance at this workshop is a desire to stop lusting and become sexually sober. It is preferable, but not essential, that each participant has completed a written Step 1 with their SA sponsor and shared this in their home group before attending the workshop. It is not possible to attend Day 2 only because materials prepared on Day 1 are needed on Day 2.
How much does it cost? The actual cost of running the workshop is simply shared equally among the participants. Costs normally include the workshop leader’s travel and accommodation, venue hire, workbooks, and refreshments. There is no charge for the step work itself. Money is usually collected on the first day.
What is the workbook? The workbook is a 24-page loose-leaf A4 document, in which participants do their written work. Notebooks are not required: just bring a pen or pencil. You can download the workbook for the 12-Step Workshop and print extra copies of the worksheets as needed.
Meals & refreshments? There will be refreshment breaks from time to time, with simple refreshments available throughout. Packed lunches should be brought on both days unless catering is provided. On the first day, lunch is eaten in silence, during an extended period of writing.
Timings and timekeeping? The Steps must be done in their correct order, so it is essential to attend all sessions on time. Missed Steps cannot be revisited once the group has moved on. The workshop spans a total of 16 hours, including breaks. Typical schedules are:
- Day 1 Steps 0-5, in 10 hours, from 9am – 6pm
- Day 2 Steps 6-12, in 6 hours, from 9am – 3pm
or
- Day 1 (evening) Steps 0-2, in 2 hours, from 8pm – 10pm
- Day 2 Steps 3-7, in 10 hours, from 9am – 6pm
- Day 3 Steps 8-12, in 4 hours, from 9am – 1pm
Dress, contact, and boundaries? Please dress in a manner that is respectful of others and gain consent before touching or hugging another person. All activities are voluntary. Temporary sponsors will be available.
Minimum and maximum participants? Minimum 4. There is no maximum.
What criteria should attendees meet? Ideally, they should already have an SA home group, have obtained an SA sponsor, and have completed a written Step 1 that they have shared with other SA members. Knowledge of English is desirable but translators are provided, when necessary.
Who should probably not attend? Anyone who believes they can still control lust or who still wants to have lust in their lives.
Any preparations? As many people as possible should have completed their Step 1 in SA, as above. That is all.