I am a professor in a mental health-related field and completely understand the reluctance to just be super open about my history in public meetings. I went to meetings, different kinds (AA, SMART, Refuge Recovery). I personally liked SMART best and actually enjoyed the diversity at most meetings because my everyday social circles are far more homogeneous. I like SR for the same reason. Anyhow, I don't think anyone is pushed to interact or reveal stuff we don't want and if someone initiates it, there is always the option to say 'no' or to set limits. I never attended meetings very regularly for long periods but found them very helpful at times. I did a lot of individual therapy, that's confidential. Also spent some time in a private rehab far from my residence once. I've met a few highly educated professionals in most of these environments and also connected with like-minded people who did not have much formal education, based on simple human values and shared interests.