Free PAL Parent Peer Support — Addicted Loved Ones, Nationwide
Parents of Addicted Loved Ones (PAL) is a free weekly support group designed specifically for parents, spouses, and family members of an adult with substance use disorder. Founded in 2006 by Michael Speakman, LISAC, an Arizona substance use counselor, PAL pairs an evidence-based educational curriculum with the peer connection of a structured family support group.
What to Expect
Each weekly meeting has two components: an educational portion drawn from research on substance use, enabling, and family dynamics, and a sharing portion where parents discuss what has worked and what has not in their own families. Curriculum topics include the differences between helping and enabling, managing the emotional toll of a loved one’s addiction, setting boundaries, and navigating relapse without losing hope. Meetings are facilitated by trained PAL volunteers who themselves have a loved one in recovery.
Meeting Formats
In-person meetings in cities across the US — searchable by ZIP code on the PAL meeting finder. National virtual meetings via Zoom for parents who cannot attend in person or whose town does not yet have a PAL group. Online resources, podcasts, and curriculum materials are available free on the PAL website.
Who This Group Is For
Parents, grandparents, spouses, and adult family members of someone aged 18 or older who has a drug or alcohol use disorder. PAL is best suited for families dealing with an adult child or family member in active addiction or early recovery, where the family is wrestling with how to support without enabling.
Why Peer Support Works
Parents of adult children with addiction often feel deep shame and isolation that prevents them from talking to neighbors, coworkers, or even close friends. PAL’s combination of evidence-based education and peer fellowship gives parents both knowledge and community — and the freedom to grieve, vent, ask questions, and rebuild hope alongside other parents who understand.
How to Join
Walk in to any meeting — no registration required, no dues, no fees. Use the meeting locator at meetings.palgroup.org to find local groups or sign up for a national virtual meeting. Email info@palgroup.org or call (480) 300-4712 for general questions.