Support Groups in Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan), VIC

View suburbs and cities in Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan)
Online series to experience the intersection of creative arts, Psychodrama & somatic practices.
Photo of Jaya Narayan, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Hosted by Jaya Narayan
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Group meets in Bundoora, VIC 3083
Online series to experience the intersection of creative arts, Psychodrama & somatic practices.
(03) 8338 1858 View (03) 8338 1858
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.
Photo of Virginia Golding - Bridge, Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Hosted by Virginia Golding - Bridge
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Group meets in Fairfield, VIC 3078
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.
(03) 7003 2568 View (03) 7003 2568
All group supervision and individual supervision are facilitated online and held two or three times per month at 6.30 pm for a duration of 2 hours. Group discussion covers varied applicable topics and clinical cases. Six participants in each group. Groups are open to all allied health practitioners, such as counsellors, psychotherapists, NDIS recovery coaches, and more. Call 0447262130 for more information. Book online.
Photo of Deborah Cameron, Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Hosted by Deborah Cameron
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Group meets in Brighton, VIC 3186
All group supervision and individual supervision are facilitated online and held two or three times per month at 6.30 pm for a duration of 2 hours. Group discussion covers varied applicable topics and clinical cases. Six participants in each group. Groups are open to all allied health practitioners, such as counsellors, psychotherapists, NDIS recovery coaches, and more. Call 0447262130 for more information. Book online.
(03) 7003 2799 View (03) 7003 2799
Understand what is keeping us awake and learn how to have a good night's sleep.
Photo of May Lai, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Hosted by May Lai
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Group meets in Kew, VIC 3101
Understand what is keeping us awake and learn how to have a good night's sleep.
(02) 4504 0235 View (02) 4504 0235
Our 4-Week ADHD Group Coaching Program is designed to help you build practical skills for managing your diagnosis, daily life, and academic or professional challenges. Led by an experienced psychologist, these sessions provide evidence-based strategies in a supportive and interactive environment. Why Join a Group? Shared Experience – Connect with others who understand your struggles. Expert Guidance – Learn from a psychologist specialising in adult ADHD. Actionable Strategies – Gain tools that you can apply immediately. Cost-Effective – Benefit from professional coaching at a fraction of the cost of 1:1 sessions.
Photo of Brenda Taylor, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Hosted by Brenda Taylor
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Group meets in Wheelers Hill, VIC 3150
Our 4-Week ADHD Group Coaching Program is designed to help you build practical skills for managing your diagnosis, daily life, and academic or professional challenges. Led by an experienced psychologist, these sessions provide evidence-based strategies in a supportive and interactive environment. Why Join a Group? Shared Experience – Connect with others who understand your struggles. Expert Guidance – Learn from a psychologist specialising in adult ADHD. Actionable Strategies – Gain tools that you can apply immediately. Cost-Effective – Benefit from professional coaching at a fraction of the cost of 1:1 sessions.
(03) 5924 0088 View (03) 5924 0088
Creative Journaling for practitioners and women email info@creativehealing.com.au for more info or check the website www.creativehealing.com.au
Photo of Sally Tyrrell - Creative Healing counselling & art therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Hosted by Creative Healing counselling & art therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Group meets in Preston, VIC 3072
Creative Journaling for practitioners and women email info@creativehealing.com.au for more info or check the website www.creativehealing.com.au
(03) 9068 5833 View (03) 9068 5833
A space to help unpack the meaning of experiences/themes/patterns occurring in our lives, and how they can unlock areas of growth.
Photo of Lena Risteski, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Hosted by Lena Risteski
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Group meets in Essendon North, VIC 3041
A space to help unpack the meaning of experiences/themes/patterns occurring in our lives, and how they can unlock areas of growth.
(03) 9070 5479 View (03) 9070 5479
Exploring how non-toxic, natural biological approaches can support good mental health
Photo of Peter John Webb, Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Hosted by Peter John Webb
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Group meets in Hawthorn, VIC 3122
Exploring how non-toxic, natural biological approaches can support good mental health
(03) 7003 2050 View (03) 7003 2050
If you are shy and or socially anxious this group provides a safe and supportive environment in which to overcome your fears. You learn what you need to know to conquer social anxiety and have the opportunity to practice: conversations, job interviews, being in a date, public speaking, etc. You choose the social activity you would like to practice with the group .The 8 week course is Medicare rebateable and provides video feedback. Groups are conducted in Hawthorn and are run at regular intervals throughout the year. Comprehensive resources are provided and participants find the course enjoyable.
Photo of Catherine Madigan - Anxiety Treatment Australia, Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Hosted by Anxiety Treatment Australia
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Group meets in Hawthorn, VIC 3122
If you are shy and or socially anxious this group provides a safe and supportive environment in which to overcome your fears. You learn what you need to know to conquer social anxiety and have the opportunity to practice: conversations, job interviews, being in a date, public speaking, etc. You choose the social activity you would like to practice with the group .The 8 week course is Medicare rebateable and provides video feedback. Groups are conducted in Hawthorn and are run at regular intervals throughout the year. Comprehensive resources are provided and participants find the course enjoyable.
(03) 9068 5415 View (03) 9068 5415
Learn to manage difficulty with more ease and kindness..... MSC is the evidence based program developed by Chris Germer and Kristen Neff. Research on self compassion has shown that it boosts happiness and wellbeing, and is effective in reducing anxiety, depression, self criticism and shame. Learn to: Befriend your inner critic; Develop skills of self compassion to manage difficult emotions including shame; and Foster goodwill towards yourself and others. Online via Zoom Wednesdays, 6.30pm - 9.00pm AEDT . For more information contact Claire at: http://www.rawortherapy.com.au/msc.html
Photo of Claire Raworth - Claire Raworth Counselling & Supervision, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Hosted by Claire Raworth Counselling & Supervision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Group meets in Coburg, VIC 3058
Learn to manage difficulty with more ease and kindness..... MSC is the evidence based program developed by Chris Germer and Kristen Neff. Research on self compassion has shown that it boosts happiness and wellbeing, and is effective in reducing anxiety, depression, self criticism and shame. Learn to: Befriend your inner critic; Develop skills of self compassion to manage difficult emotions including shame; and Foster goodwill towards yourself and others. Online via Zoom Wednesdays, 6.30pm - 9.00pm AEDT . For more information contact Claire at: http://www.rawortherapy.com.au/msc.html
(03) 8338 4975 View (03) 8338 4975
This 6-week program is for parents of adolescents aged 12+. This program aims to foster emotional intelligence in your and your teen. You will learn how to better communicate with and understand your teen, leading to a stronger healthier relationship. You will also learn how how manage your teen's big emotions and behaviours, as well as develop skills on how to help your teen manage conflict. Research shows teen's with greater emotional intelligence do better academically, socially, and emotionally. Would you like to begin improving your relationship with your teen? Program begins Monday 18th July. Join today!
Photo of Tonia Martin - Talking Sleep Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Hosted by Talking Sleep Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Group meets in Hawthorn East, VIC 3123
This 6-week program is for parents of adolescents aged 12+. This program aims to foster emotional intelligence in your and your teen. You will learn how to better communicate with and understand your teen, leading to a stronger healthier relationship. You will also learn how how manage your teen's big emotions and behaviours, as well as develop skills on how to help your teen manage conflict. Research shows teen's with greater emotional intelligence do better academically, socially, and emotionally. Would you like to begin improving your relationship with your teen? Program begins Monday 18th July. Join today!
1300 366 306 View 1300 366 306
A six-session parenting program for parents of teens to help teens develop emotional intelligence Would you like to learn how to: be better at understanding and talking with your child through this important developmental phase help your teen learn to manage their emotions help to prevent behaviour problems in your teen teach your teen how to deal with conflict? TINT teaches parents how to help their teen develop emotional intelligence – a key skill that can help them better cope with their emotions, become more aware and assertive, and have more stable and satisfying relationships as adults.
Photo of Marie Vakakis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Hosted by Marie Vakakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Group meets in Footscray, VIC 3011
A six-session parenting program for parents of teens to help teens develop emotional intelligence Would you like to learn how to: be better at understanding and talking with your child through this important developmental phase help your teen learn to manage their emotions help to prevent behaviour problems in your teen teach your teen how to deal with conflict? TINT teaches parents how to help their teen develop emotional intelligence – a key skill that can help them better cope with their emotions, become more aware and assertive, and have more stable and satisfying relationships as adults.
(03) 8613 3424 View (03) 8613 3424
We are all makers here and we believe we all have much to gain from making together. Join us for a lovely Sunday Makers Circle at the cosy embrace of Many Arts Studio, and let's make space for gentle creative flow for ourselves and one another. Makers Circles are free and open to everyone who enjoys the group intention and structure. Bookings are essential. Find out more, and book via: https://events.humanitix.com/makers
Photo of Weiyu Guan, Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Hosted by Weiyu Guan
Psychotherapist, MA, AThR
Group meets in Hawthorn, VIC 3122
We are all makers here and we believe we all have much to gain from making together. Join us for a lovely Sunday Makers Circle at the cosy embrace of Many Arts Studio, and let's make space for gentle creative flow for ourselves and one another. Makers Circles are free and open to everyone who enjoys the group intention and structure. Bookings are essential. Find out more, and book via: https://events.humanitix.com/makers
(03) 7003 2318 View (03) 7003 2318
The B.E.S.T Kids™ group therapy program supports your child to develop social skills and emotional intelligence. The 6 week Group Program runs from our practice in Hawthorn. The program includes the following skills: emotional awareness, managing emotions, effective communication skills, positive friendships, empathy & sharing, positive leadership, and resolving conflict.
Photo of Christine Harding - Hargan Psychology, Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Hosted by Hargan Psychology
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Group meets in Hawthorn, VIC 3122
The B.E.S.T Kids™ group therapy program supports your child to develop social skills and emotional intelligence. The 6 week Group Program runs from our practice in Hawthorn. The program includes the following skills: emotional awareness, managing emotions, effective communication skills, positive friendships, empathy & sharing, positive leadership, and resolving conflict.
(03) 9034 5924 View (03) 9034 5924
We offer counselling for adults (individuals and couples), adolescents and children. With us, you'll have a safe place to land, where you’ll feel truly seen, heard, and validated. We understand the frustration of mismatched connections and the importance of finding the right fit. That’s why building a strong and compassionate therapeutic relationship is our top priority.
Photo of Jacqueline Ha, Counsellor, PACFA
Hosted by Jacqueline Ha
Counsellor, PACFA
Group meets in Essendon North, VIC 3041
We offer counselling for adults (individuals and couples), adolescents and children. With us, you'll have a safe place to land, where you’ll feel truly seen, heard, and validated. We understand the frustration of mismatched connections and the importance of finding the right fit. That’s why building a strong and compassionate therapeutic relationship is our top priority.
(03) 7302 8729 View (03) 7302 8729
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.
Photo of Ingrid Jolley - Ingrid Jolley - IFS Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Hosted by Ingrid Jolley - IFS Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Group meets in Thornbury, VIC 3071
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.
(03) 7037 8335 View (03) 7037 8335
Get the support and information you need to foster the wellbeing and resilience of your gender diverse child.
Photo of Ari Heart - Ari @ Trans Wellbeing, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Hosted by Ari @ Trans Wellbeing
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Group meets in Preston, VIC 3072
Get the support and information you need to foster the wellbeing and resilience of your gender diverse child.
(03) 7003 2710 View (03) 7003 2710
People often baulk at the notion of meditation because they have had the experience that it's not so simple to be passive and stop the mind. That approach is all wrong. Our mind stops when we are in flow. Kelpies need to run to relax. We are no different. This group is to turn your notions of meditation on their heads and start again, playfully actively and effectively.
Photo of Sudhir Dean, Counsellor, ACA-L3
Hosted by Sudhir Dean
Counsellor, ACA-L3
Group meets in Northcote, VIC 3070
People often baulk at the notion of meditation because they have had the experience that it's not so simple to be passive and stop the mind. That approach is all wrong. Our mind stops when we are in flow. Kelpies need to run to relax. We are no different. This group is to turn your notions of meditation on their heads and start again, playfully actively and effectively.
(03) 7003 2419 View (03) 7003 2419
Circle of Security Program is an 8-week online group for parents. It focuses on building secure attachments with children to support lifelong patterns of healthy relationships. Parents can take the course together or independently, with each week running for 1.5 hours in a safe online zoom environment with other like-minded parents.
Photo of Kayla Cutajar, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Hosted by Kayla Cutajar
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Group meets in Essendon North, VIC 3041
Circle of Security Program is an 8-week online group for parents. It focuses on building secure attachments with children to support lifelong patterns of healthy relationships. Parents can take the course together or independently, with each week running for 1.5 hours in a safe online zoom environment with other like-minded parents.
(03) 8104 9965 View (03) 8104 9965
Ivanhoe Psychological Services take a holistic view of mental health and wellbeing. We offer a range of evidence based therapeutic services to cater for individual need. Our services are guided by two key frameworks, Psychological Therapy - where strategies are employed to support you through challenging times, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy which seeks to increase self-awareness and connection to yourself and others.
Photo of Laura Petrie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Hosted by Laura Petrie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Group meets in Ivanhoe East, VIC 3079
Ivanhoe Psychological Services take a holistic view of mental health and wellbeing. We offer a range of evidence based therapeutic services to cater for individual need. Our services are guided by two key frameworks, Psychological Therapy - where strategies are employed to support you through challenging times, and Psychodynamic Psychotherapy which seeks to increase self-awareness and connection to yourself and others.
(03) 8797 5226 View (03) 8797 5226

See more therapy options for Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan)

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan)?

To find a support group in your area, start by entering your suburb, postcode, or the name of the group into the search bar at the top of the page. When searching, consider whether you prefer an in-person or virtual group. This can help you decide how broad your geographic search should be. If you are open to virtual groups, you might want to search by state instead of just your city, especially if there are limited options nearby.

Once you complete your search, you can use the filters to narrow the results by selecting specialties (such as grief, trauma, or eating disorders), therapeutic approaches, age groups, and other criteria to find a group that best fits your needs.

How does group therapy work?

Group therapy is led by one or more trained therapists and provides a space where participants can process their experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. Groups may focus on a specific issue—such as addiction, grief, physical illnesses, parenting, or caregiving—or they may center around a particular therapeutic approach, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), social skill development, or Exposure Therapy. Some groups are also designed for specific populations, such as teens, veterans, or LGBTQ+ individuals.

It’s also important to distinguish group therapy from peer-led support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous. While both can offer valuable support, therapy groups are typically led by licensed professionals and follow a more structured format. Therapy groups often meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many peer support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.

What are the benefits of group therapy?

Group therapy offers several important benefits. It brings together people facing similar challenges—whether related to mental health, physical health, or life transitions—and creates a supportive environment where participants can exchange feedback, share experiences, and learn from one another. Hearing different perspectives can help individuals discover new coping strategies and practical tools they may not have encountered on their own. Sharing personal experiences, such as coping with a serious illness or navigating family struggles, can also reduce feelings of isolation and foster a sense of connection and understanding. In addition to emotional support, group members often gain useful, real-world advice from peers who have faced similar situations.

Group therapy is typically more affordable than individual therapy and, for certain conditions, can be equally effective. Many groups also include structured activities—such as guided journaling, cognitive-behavioural exercises, or role-playing—to help participants develop concrete skills they can apply in daily life.

Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy?

It is difficult to make a blanket statement about the effectiveness of support groups, as they vary widely in focus and the conditions they address. However, support groups can be highly valuable in helping individuals gain emotional support and achieve meaningful treatment outcomes. For certain conditions, such as substance use, research has shown that group therapy can be particularly effective—sometimes just as effective as individual therapy—in supporting long-term recovery.

Many professionals attribute the effectiveness of group therapy to the unique benefits of the group setting, which fosters peer-to-peer learning and a sense of connection through shared experiences. Group settings also offer accountability and encouragement from both facilitators and fellow participants, which helps sustain motivation and supports continued progress. These factors together play a key role in promoting the overall effectiveness of group therapy.

How much does group therapy cost?

Group therapy is typically less expensive than individual therapy, with sessions typically costing between $80 and $110 each. In comparison, individual therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $250 or more per session, even with insurance. Some therapists or organizations offer low-cost or free group therapy options, particularly through community centers or non-profit organizations. In some cases, groups may require payment upfront for a set number of sessions, such as paying for six weekly sessions at the first meeting. However, many providers offer payment plans to help make participation more accessible if this upfront payment is required.

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 each group therapy session typically ranges from 45 minutes to two hours, depending on the therapy approach, the group’s goals, and how often the group meets. In some cases, group therapy is part of a larger treatment program, such as an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), where group sessions complement individual therapy and are scheduled as part of the program’s overall structure.

The duration of participation in a group also varies. Some groups are designed to be short-term, lasting anywhere from 6 to 24 weeks—for example, bereavement groups or skills-based groups like those using Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT). Other groups may be longer-term, lasting a year or more, and some ongoing support groups meet indefinitely, allowing participants to stay as long as they find the group helpful.

What are the limitations of support groups?

Support groups offer many benefits, but they also have certain limitations. Unlike therapy groups, many support groups do not provide formal therapeutic treatment and are not led by licensed mental health professionals. For individuals seeking clinical treatment for specific mental health diagnoses—such as depression, eating disorders, or substance use—individual therapy or group therapy led by a licensed professional may offer more personalised and specialised care.

The effectiveness of a support group also depends heavily on the group’s participants and the overall group dynamic. When members engage respectfully and offer constructive support, the group can foster valuable peer-to-peer learning. However, if certain participants dominate discussions, provide inaccurate advice, or create conflict, it can disrupt the group’s sense of safety and reduce its effectiveness. Confidentiality can also be harder to maintain in support groups, particularly in open groups where participants can join or leave at any time. With new members regularly entering the group, it can be more difficult to build and sustain a consistent sense of trust and privacy.