Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do to prepare for my first CoDA meeting?
No preparation is needed. You may be want to review the “What to Expect” section and the CoDA pamphlet “Your First Meeting.” Most meetings have a contact person, listed on the meeting schedule, who can answer questions about the meeting. You do not need to bring any books or other materials. Most meetings have literature available at the meeting.
Does it cost to attend a CoDA meeting?
No, there is no fee. Anyone who is interested in developing healthy and loving relationships is welcome to attend CoDA meetings. CoDA’s 7th tradition states “Every CoDA group ought to be fully self-supporting, declining outside contributions.” Meetings may ask for optional, Seventh Tradition donations, which are used to pay for room rentals, literature purchases, printing and other expenses.
My therapist told me I’m codependent and recommended I go to a CoDA meeting.
Give it a try. Many people come to codependents anonymous by recommendations from therapists. Others may have read a book about codependency, or have attended other 12-step programs for behavioral or substance issues. You can also learn more by reviewing CoDA-endorsed materials such as The Preamble, The Welcome, and The Patterns and Characteristics of Codependency.
What if I attend a CoDA meeting and I don’t like it?
Try another CoDA meeting. If you attend a meeting and it doesn’t meet your needs, please try another. While all CoDA meetings follow a basic format, groups may have additional practices that better meet your needs. In San Diego County, there are CoDA meetings for men, women, LGBTQIA+, and co-ed meetings. Newcomers are welcome at all CoDA meetings.
Do I have to speak at the meeting?
No. While sharing our experience, strength and hope is a key portion of a CoDA meeting, you are not required to share. If you want to share, you need only share when and what you are comfortable talking about. Some meetings go around the room where people share in turn; if you are not ready to share, “pass” when it comes your turn. Other meeting are free form, where people share as they want.