About OSPA

The History of OSPA
Obsessive Skin Pickers Anonymous (OSPA) was founded on December 3, 2004, when one person, after years of struggling with obsessive skin picking, reached out for support. Feeling isolated and hopeless, she discovered an online discussion board where others shared similar experiences. In that moment, she realized she was not alone. Inspired by the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous, she set out to create a fellowship specifically for those affected by skin picking. From that spark of connection, OSPA was born.

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The First Steps Toward a Global Community
It all started with a single post. That founding member created a discussion thread dedicated to working the Twelve Steps in a safe and supportive way. What began as a simple online conversation soon became the foundation of OSPA, evolving into a worldwide fellowship that continues to offer hope and healing to so many.

 

In its early days, members worked the Twelve Steps together through discussion boards, instant messaging, and phone calls. As word spread, OSPA flourished, establishing its own online space where members could connect and grow in recovery. Guided by the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, OSPA’s reach expanded, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and locations across the world. What started as a small gathering soon became a thriving international community of support and healing.

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In-Person Meetings and Milestones
After a year of continuous abstinence, one OSPA member flew from Australia to California to meet others face-to-face. Two additional members joined the trip, and together they held the first in-person OSPA gatherings in San Diego and Lake Tahoe, strengthening the fellowship and fostering a sense of unity. 

 

In the following years, members continued to gather in various locations, including Australia, Arizona, Morocco, Amsterdam, and Los Angeles, further deepening connections within the global fellowship. As OSPA expanded, members also helped launch Skype-based meetings in Amsterdam, which later spread to other locations. These virtual sessions allowed members worldwide to connect in real time, enriching the fellowship and broadening its reach.

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A Surge in Growth and Outreach

A pivotal moment in OSPA’s development occurred when a member shared her personal skin picking recovery story at a prominent conference on trichotillomania (compulsive hair-pulling). Her testimony not only offered hope to many but also brought significant attention to the OSPA program. The powerful impact of her story led to a surge in interest and contributed to the rapid growth of the fellowship.

 

Embracing Virtual Connections
As the fellowship continued to grow, OSPA embraced more online meetings where members could interact visually despite being apart. Initially connecting via Skype, and later Zoom, these platforms made it easier for people worldwide to join and participate in the program. Today, OSPA hosts daily meetings, offering multiple opportunities for members to engage. Our fellowship remains a welcoming global community, providing a safe space for individuals to share their experiences, strength, and hope.

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More Recent Developments

Due to widespread challenges in 2020 that kept many people indoors, OSPA saw a significant increase in membership. Many sought connection and support during a time of profound isolation, and this period further emphasized the importance of online spaces, enabling members to stay connected and continue their recovery from anywhere in the world.

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Looking Toward the Future
While OSPA remains primarily a virtual fellowship, we are committed to expanding and strengthening our community. We encourage members to explore new ways to grow together, whether through in-person meetings, special events, and workshops. We hope to offer more diverse opportunities for connection and support, reaching both those in recovery and those still struggling.

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Join Us on Our Journey of Recovery
Today OSPA is thriving, bringing together members worldwide in a shared commitment to recovery. Guided by the Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions, we provide a safe and caring space for those overcoming obsessive skin picking. Join us on this transformative journey. Through unity, service, and mutual support, we find strength and hope together.

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We look forward to welcoming you at a meeting soon!