Support Groups in Abbotsford, VIC
Be met. Be known. Belong. This group is for anyone who wants to learn how to connect emotionally, who wants to learn how to relate from their nervous system, who wants to feel more connected in their lives. We explore how to be authentic and how to belong at the same time. The pre-eminent question of our times. "Group sessions run by Vas each week are a lifeline to me. I am so grateful this safe space exists where I can connect with others at a deep level and be my true self." - Llew.

Hosted by Vas Clementine
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Abbotsford, VIC 3067
Do you need guidance, therapy, companionship, help to grieve, to feel heartache, to cry, to decide? A wise perspective, a dependable leaning post? Someone to walk with you by the river? Do you have a question? A deep longing, core concern, recurring problem, an emotional wound, an unmet need? Do you tire of idle chatter and long for a deep yarn with the world, with your tribe? Do you want to make your offering to your tribe and need help to find them? Most saliently, most poignantly, do you seek help to court your wild twin, your Soul? Do you prefer the pain of change to the pain of staying the same? If so, in earnest you are ready.
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Finding genuine connections and support can be challenging, especially for queer men, who often face unique struggles. Bent Couch Counselling recognises this need and offers a transformative online space through their Men's Community Couch Conversations. These FREE online sessions are designed to provide a supportive environment where queer men from all over Australia can learn, listen, share, and be heard.

Hosted by Shaun Williams - Bent Couch Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Group meets in Melbourne, VIC 3004
Bent Couch, founded by Shaun Williams, is a Melbourne-based Men's and LGBTQ counselling service specialising in fostering and supporting mental health and positive change. Shaun offers one-on-one online counselling services throughout Australia, in addition to in-person consultations in Melbourne and brings an empathetic, professional approach to counselling that is based on his own journey as a CIS gay male and a father. He is a member of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and has over 20 years of experience in healthcare.
The group starts in February 2025. Ones a week for 7 weeks. Contact me if you are interested.

Hosted by Christa Doczy
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Group meets in Port Melbourne, VIC 3207
I bring a wealth of lived experience in navigating life’s ups and downs, successes and setbacks, and the challenges and pitfalls we all face. I am passionate about supporting couples, whether they are seeking to rebuild trust and stay together or facing the difficult path of separation. My approach emphasises assertive communication, trust-building, and, when needed, guidance in shared custody negotiations to foster a healthy, lifelong connection between co-parents. I also help individuals dealing with stress and burnout, offering practical strategies to manage and overcome the effects of a toxic environment.
Discover inner peace and tranquility. Our guided meditation classes offer a serene space to relax, reduce stress, and improve your overall well-being. No experience is necessary. All are welcome. Classes are held on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings in 6-week blocks through out the year.

Hosted by Equator Counselling & Hypnotherapy
Counsellor, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Group meets in Melbourne, VIC 3004
Welcome to Equator Counselling. & Hypnotherapy. My name is Joe Busuttil and I am a qualified and registered Clinical Hypnotherapist, Counsellor, and Life Coach based in Melbourne, Australia. I specialise in finding the root cause of anxiety and personal issues, and show you how to overcome limiting, disruptive and negative thoughts that are holding you back. I will guide you to create the life that you most desire using techniques like Hypnotherapy, EMDR, NLP, Counselling, Meditation, Energy healing and other powerful modalities.
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Do you have an inner critic that can be harsh, blaming, critical or shaming, especially during times of struggle or perceived inadequacy? How do we create a different, kinder, relationship with ourselves and ease our suffering? This Self-Compassion workshop will focus on how to tame the inner-critic and learn skills to sooth and ease toxic inner criticisms while promoting confidence and inner strength. The workshop consists of guided meditations, visualisations, experiential exercises, self-reflective writing and strategies. For more info visit www.samsolly.com.au

Hosted by Sam Solly
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Group meets in Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
My name is Sam Solly and I’m a registered Clinical Psychologist and Accredited EMDR therapist. My areas of interest include relationship difficulties, burnout, stress and perfectionism, PTSD, sexual assault/abuse, Complex Developmental Trauma, disassociation, birth trauma, miscarriage. I also like to work with clients to resolve negative core beliefs, “I’m no good enough, I’m a failure” and targeting reoccurring issues in your life: ending up in the wrong relationships, having trouble making decisions, recurrent feelings or hopelessness or lack of control. I enjoy working with veterans and combat PTSD.
Daring Greatly™ offers an innovative and transformative approach to the way that we live, love and parent. Based on Dr Brené Brown’s revolutionary work on courage, shame, vulnerability and worthiness this programme will help you live more courageously and better manage the experiences of uncertainty, risk and emotional exposure that are part of everyday life. You will cultivate the courage to lean into living authentically and wholeheartedly by developing the skills associated with shame-resilience and connectedness. You will learn how to live your life in a more authentic and wholehearted way.

Hosted by Justine Campbell
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Group meets in Armadale, VIC 3143
Don't expect to see a change if you don't make one. I enable positive change. My clients may have seen a therapist or coach before, but it didn't change anything for them. They then come to me. They want to make lasting positive change in their lives, but they need somebody to give them structured tools and support them in the growth process. Change can be good, but it is not easy. Typically, my clients come to me feeling that living on auto-pilot or that they have lost touch with who they are at their core. They desire more life satisfaction and are prepared to work for it. They want to thrive not just survive.
After completing the Complex Trauma/cPTSD Basics to Recovery, or a similar program, you might want to attend the advanced program for further monitoring and support to make your road to recovery even shorter and smoother. As you will have made some necessary changes for your health and well-being to emerge, your world will start to be different, especially because your relationships with people will improve or fall away if they were too unhealthy to fix. You will learn what to look out for, how to navigate these changes in future and you will be supported on the way.

Hosted by Esther Sammut Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Group meets in Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I believe a life of meaning, fulfillment and happiness is possible for every person, from those with slightly tiresome moods or behaviours to those with severely wounded pasts. It can be achieved through a guided therapeutic process which combines scientific research and experience with careful assessment into each person's mental barriers, unhelpful traits and recurrent emotional patterns. My practice of over 16 years, offers a caring, intuitive, nuanced approach uniquely tailored to your needs while utilizing the latest evidence based, neuro-scientifically informed treatments
13 years running - conducted over Zoom. Two classes to choose from, Tuesday nights 8pm and Thursday Mornings 9am. (90 mins.) $15. See website for more information www.relaxedmind.com.

Hosted by George Gintilas
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Elwood, VIC 3184
I work as a Somatic Body/Subconscious based Psychotherapist. With a deep and strong expertise in helping clients release and heal complex trauma. In private practice since 1991. (Full-time since 1997.) Sessions are 90 mins long to allow deeper, more connected and focused work. There is less talking and more time focused on your internal body with very deep somatic mindfulness work. Help embody more of your spirit into your body. Help free the blocks to your aliveness, feelings, vitality, confidence, joy, love and peace of mind. Release chronic pain and anxiety. Move and feel your body into greater health and wellbeing.
Research and diagnosis of Complex Trauma/Complex PTSD have only been in mainstream Psychology, less than 10 years. Treatments are therefore new and underdeveloped worldwide. I have seen excellent results in my practice so far using a model developed from the available literature and my 15 years of clinical experience working with adults with backgrounds of childhood trauma. I invite anyone who has undergone adverse childhood experiences, and were unsupported through them, to join others experiencing similar challenges to understand the 4 most fundamental presentations of cPTSD and practice strategies which promote healing and recovery. PLEASE NOTE: Group intake is currently waitlist only for 2025

Hosted by Esther Sammut Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Group meets in Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I believe a life of meaning, fulfillment and happiness is possible for every person, from those with slightly tiresome moods or behaviours to those with severely wounded pasts. It can be achieved through a guided therapeutic process which combines scientific research and experience with careful assessment into each person's mental barriers, unhelpful traits and recurrent emotional patterns. My practice of over 16 years, offers a caring, intuitive, nuanced approach uniquely tailored to your needs while utilizing the latest evidence based, neuro-scientifically informed treatments
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can occur after a threatening or traumatic event. It usually occurs because the memory is so frightening or uncomfortable that the brain doesn't process it completely and it remains fresh as though it is happening again. In these cases it can come back to re-traumatize you on any day or sometimes every day unless you avoid reminders. Join others who have been experiencing something similar to learn about what is happening in your brain and what you can do to move towards processing the memory which will bring healing and recovery.

Hosted by Esther Sammut Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Group meets in Fitzroy North, VIC 3068
I believe a life of meaning, fulfillment and happiness is possible for every person, from those with slightly tiresome moods or behaviours to those with severely wounded pasts. It can be achieved through a guided therapeutic process which combines scientific research and experience with careful assessment into each person's mental barriers, unhelpful traits and recurrent emotional patterns. My practice of over 16 years, offers a caring, intuitive, nuanced approach uniquely tailored to your needs while utilizing the latest evidence based, neuro-scientifically informed treatments
Smiley Days was founded in hopes of bridging a gap for individuals seeking therapy. Whilst awaiting the commencement of individual sessions, Smiley Days specialised group programs offer practical skills and psychoeducation, so that clients can begin managing their current challenges with our support. By offering these programs alongside individual therapy and cognitive assessment services, Smiley Days is a wellness hub, ready to provide care in whichever capacity required for the individual.

Hosted by Lauren Amber Fleurie
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Group meets in Port Melbourne, VIC 3207
Lauren is a passionate psychologist with a background in child and adolescent therapy for those presenting with a variety of difficulties. Lauren aims to provide a safe, inclusive and affirming space for her clients, she prides herself on her ability to engage well with young people and has a warm, empathic and open therapeutic style.

Hosted by Lena Risteski
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Group meets in Melbourne, VIC 3000

Hosted by Jordan Djuric
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Group meets in Port Melbourne, VIC 3207
Do you feel threatened, frightened or controlled by your son/daughter? Do other family members, particularly younger siblings feel scared? Do you feel that you are walking on eggshells? Do you feel that you are no longer in charge? Do you feel isolated and alone? Would you like to find ways to help your son/daughter become more responsible and respectful? If any of these questions apply to you, this group may be for you. A group for mothers, fathers, partners, step-parents, carers whose adolescents are abusive and/or violent at home. Contact Halakhe on 0425 860 100

Hosted by Holistic Counselling Service.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Truganina, VIC 3029
Many clients are presented with psychological and emotional symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders. These symptoms are usually a manifestations of underlying issues and unhappiness they may have been experiencing. They often sought help to get relief from such symptoms. In collaboration with the client, assessment and goal formulation, the underlying issues maybe identified and dealt with.
A group program to teach you the tools to support you to better manage stress, anxiety and work with the challenges of life and relationships by becoming more self aware, calm and at ease through meditation practices as well as cognitive behavioral and somatic approaches which are taught through practical instruction and guidance as well as opportunities for discussion, connecting with others and reflection.

Hosted by Virginia Golding - Bridge
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Fairfield, VIC 3078
I have over 25 years’ experience as psychotherapist, working with Individuals, couples and teens, and in corporate and organisational psychology. I am also a Clinical Supervisor. I hope to support clients to develop greater self awareness and the practical strategies and tools to create desired and positive changes, in order to live a life that aligns with dreams and values, and to better deal with individual, relationship and life challenges. I have training in EMDR modality, Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Aceptance and Commitment Therapy and Transpersonal Psychology and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
JLP is excited to be running an 8-week small-group programme this year at our Moorabbin practice for late-diagnosed/identified neurodivergent adults (over 18 years old, ASD and/or ADHD) tailored to the unique support needs of this group. Expression of interest for the July group is officially open and numbers will be very limited. Please email info@ jasmineloopsychology. com for further information/ for EOI, or visit https://www. jasmineloopsychology. com/group-programme A formal diagnosis is not required to be eligible, as long as you identify as being neurodivergent following self-reflection and learning about ASD/ADHD.

Hosted by Jasmine Loo Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Group meets in Moorabbin, VIC 3189
I work with clients across the lifespan (age 4 and above) to address a variety of life challenges, such as managing stress, anxiety and depression, as well as struggles with life transitions. Finding hope and recognising your resources can feel challenging when going through a rough patch. Through therapy sessions, I’ll support you in brainstorming for solutions to overcome your difficulties and celebrate your unique strengths. I also have a special interest in neurodiversity and the female presentation of ASD. Neurodiversity can often bring invisible challenges. Finding the right support from an understanding person is essential.
Creative Journaling for practitioners and women email info@creativehealing.com.au for more info or check the website www.creativehealing.com.au

Hosted by Creative Healing counselling & art therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Preston, VIC 3072
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure where to start? Maybe anxiety, depression, or ADHD is holding you back. Perhaps you’re a parent watching your child struggle with emotions or social challenges, or you’re juggling work and life and feeling burnt out. You’re here because you want something to change. You want clarity, balance, and tools that actually help. You want to feel confident, connected, and in control of your life. Whatever your goals—emotional regulation, better relationships, or finding calm in the chaos—I’m here to help you achieve them.
I run a few non clinical groups in a zen environment to promote safety. Building self-awareness, self-acceptance and feeling heard without judgment. Discussions around the difficulties of ADHD, providing education and support for ADHD and building tools and strategies to manage symptoms of ADHD and common co-morbidities. Currently on offer is; A parent support and education group. A teen group. An adult female only group. Each group is small (6-8 participants) to ensure safety, tailor-made to suit each group (the arts, meditation, self reflection, books).

Hosted by Ashley Ogilvie
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Parkdale, VIC 3195
Hello, I'm Ashley, a Scottish-born psychotherapist and arts therapist practicing in Parkdale, SE Melbourne. I specialise in supporting young people, adults, and parents who are navigating challenges and striving for positive change in their lives. My approach is deeply client-centered and integrative, ensuring that therapy is personalised to meet your unique needs. Together, we will explore challenges, foster personal growth, and empower you to make meaningful changes. Trust is fundamental in my practice—I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and authentic space where you can openly explore your thoughts and feelings.
This support group is providing a non-judgmental space for its participant to practice mindfulness training based on relaxation techniques. The group is limited to six participants only.

Hosted by Harshani Algiriya
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Group meets in Maribyrnong, VIC 3032
Welcome to a sanctuary of healing and growth, where transformation begins and resilience thrives. Our team is dedicated to providing trauma-informed therapy services that are tailored to your unique journey towards a healthier and happier life. Our commitment extends to those who bear the weight of complex trauma, wrestle with personality disorders, anxiety, depression, navigate the complexities of family and relationship issues, combat addiction, struggle with sleep disturbances, and burnout of daily life. We are here to support individuals of all generations. We provide culturally sensitive inclusive environment for our clients.
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is an evidence-based, user-friendly program that brings the principles of mindfulness meditation into everyday life by teaching specific skills and practices to help break cycles of anxiety, stress, unhappiness and exhaustion.

Hosted by Ingrid Jolley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Thornbury, VIC 3071
Ingrid works with individuals experiencing a range of issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationship issues and adjustment to life changes. She is particularly interested in supporting activists and people experiencing eco-distress. She works collaboratively with people on a short term or long term bases. Ingrid assists people to recognise and build on strengths, emotion regulation, identifying and relating to thoughts and patterns in helpful and compassionate ways. This therapeutic process offers the opportunity to heal and grow in ways that people value, promotes positive change and overall wellbeing.
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FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in Abbotsford?
Search for nearby support groups by inputting your city, postcode, or the name of the group into the search bar. From there, you can filter to find a group that suits your needs, whether you are looking for support for a teenager, a group that focuses on a specific issue, such as depression, or a particular program type, such as one geared toward developing social skills. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or postcode into the search bar.
How does group therapy work?
Therapy groups are led by one or more therapists and serve to help people process their experiences and learn from others who understand their challenges firsthand. They can be based on a specific issue, such as addiction, grief, physical illnesses, parenting, and caregiving. They can involve a specific type of program or therapy, such as a social skills group or CBT group. They can also be specific to a particular population or community, such as teens or LGBTQ.
Support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous, also focus on a specific issue, but are typically led by members with lived experiences and are less structured than therapy groups. Most therapy groups will meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.
Support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous, also focus on a specific issue, but are typically led by members with lived experiences and are less structured than therapy groups. Most therapy groups will meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.
What are the benefits of group therapy?
Support groups help connect people with shared challenges or physical and mental health conditions. In a group setting, participants can receive support and feedback from peers and can acquire new skills, strategies and perspectives by listening to one another. Discussing your experience with someone who also has a cancer diagnosis, or whose son also struggles with addiction, for example, can help you feel less alone, reduce distress, find empathy and connection, and learn practical or medical information that has helped others. Group therapy can also be a more affordable option than individual therapy and just as effective.
Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy?
Support groups can be deeply valuable for both emotional support and/or treatment outcomes. It’s difficult to make a blanket statement on efficacy due to the many different types of support groups and conditions treated, but group therapy has been found to be just as effective as individual therapy in establishing long-term abstinence for conditions such as substance abuse, addiction and alcohol abuse.
How much does group therapy cost?
Group counselling is typically less expensive than individual counselling, with each session costing on average between $80 to $110. Meanwhile, individual therapy sessions can run anywhere from $100 to $250. It is possible to find low-cost group therapy options and many therapists offer group sessions free of charge.
Does insurance cover group therapy?
If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your group therapy sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for group therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.
How long does group therapy last?
The length of a support group session is often one hour but can fall anywhere between 45 minutes and two hours. The amount of time that people remain in a support group varies based on their specific needs and goals and the type of therapy. Some individuals may seek a shorter-term group, such as a bereavement group, that may last between six and 20 weeks. Some may seek a longer-term group that lasts for a year or indefinitely.
What are the limitations of support groups?
Support groups have many benefits, but there are a few limitations as well. Support groups do not constitute formal therapeutic or medical treatment, and are not run by licensed mental health professionals, so some people may opt for group therapy or individual therapy instead. Additionally, support groups can depend on the other participants, so a disruptive individual has the potential to mar the group dynamic, and the anecdotal information shared may sometimes be unhelpful or inaccurate. Because it is a group setting, confidentiality can be more difficult to guard and participants receive less personalized attention than they would in an individual therapy session.