Support Groups in Greater Melbourne (Metropolitan), VIC
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.
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.
Hosted by Hargan Psychology
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Hawthorn, VIC 3122
At Hargan Psychology, we use a person-centred approach and support our clients to live their BEST life according to THEM! We pride ourselves on offering a warm and welcoming environment where clients can be assured of a safe space to explore their presenting concerns. Our psychologists will support you to become your best self.
I am Scottish, I wanted my child to have the Scottish heritage upbringing. The singing kettle, highland dancing, Rabbie Burns poetry, unicorns, Loch Ness monster, highland cows & old traditional songs & tales. I offer this small arts therapy group to expats. Parents go downstairs to the cafe and meet new friends from home. Whilst the kids have lots of fun through creative colourful expression and old traditions of song and storytelling. Option of my therapy dog. I cater this for Scottish, Irish, Welsh & English young kids. I am experienced with babies - teens. I currently work in schools and have a WWC, first aid, and insurance.
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.
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
Psychotherapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Fairfield, VIC 3078
I have over 20 years’ experience as psychotherapist, working with Individuals, couples and teens, and in corporate and organisational coaching and 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, Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, Strengths based and Positive Psychology.
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.
I have worked with clients with a broad range of issues and with a broad range of backgrounds (substance use, homelessness, mental health, existential enquiry and much more). No matter what solution each person seeks, the starting point is always towards self-acceptance and increased awareness.
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
Looking for something a little different to traditional talking therapy? Often it can be hard to find the words to express how we are feeling or what is going on in your life that is getting you down. As a Mental Health Social Worker I use my traditional counselling skills and incorporate my Sensorimotor Art Therapy skills to add deeper meaning and reflection to make sense of the world through art, creativity and play. If you would like to make an appointment visit my website and click on the Book Now button
Request the Group Supervision 2023 and more information. All groups supervision and individual supervision are facilitated online and held three times per month, last Tuesday of the month at 6.30 pm , first Wednesday of the month at 10 am and third Friday of the month at 11.am . Groups discuss a variety of topics and clinical cases. The groups are small with no more than four participants in each group. The duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes. Groups are open to social workers, mental health practitioners counsellors and psychotherapist and other therapists such as, the NDIS recovery coach. Call 0447262130 for more informaion
Hosted by Deborah Cameron
Psychotherapist, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Brighton, VIC 3186
I am a clinical, accredited supervisor and run Groups Monthly and Individual Supervision For Supervisors. I am a registered psychotherapist/ counsellor with PACFA, AAPi, and ACA. I focus on my clients, actively listening, empathising, and reflecting on the client's story non-judgmentally. I support my clients in identifying their goals and potential solutions to their issues and provide strategies to support their daily lives. Talk therapy helps support clients and their goals. I do not give advice. However, I am not a 'passive' listener but an 'active' listener. Please feel free to call (03) 7003 2799 for an appointment.
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.
Hosted by Anxiety Treatment Australia
Psychologist, MA, MAPS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Hawthorn, VIC 3122
Depressed? Anxious? Stressed? Overwhelmed? Been suffering for some time? Relief can be experienced quickly in a confidential, non judgmental, supportive environment. I'm a caring, down to earth, experienced clinical psychologist who can help you overcome :shyness, insomnia, depression, body image issues, PTSD, social anxiety, public speaking anxiety, worrying excessively about health or other issues, OCD, panic attacks, vomit phobia, perfectionism, procrastination and hoarding. Choosing a therapist can be a difficult decision so you are welcome to a free 15 minutes session before making an appointment. Bulk billing available.
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 their strengths, process emotions and identify and relate to thoughts and patterns in helpful and compassionate ways. This therapeutic process offers the opportunity to heal, grow and transform in ways that people value and that promote overall wellbeing.
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.
Hosted by Marie Vakakis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Footscray, VIC 3011
Are you feeling worried, overwhelmed, or struggling in your relationship or daily life? Maybe you and your partner are finding it hard to connect, or perhaps you’re facing challenges on your own—feeling stressed, anxious, or like your usual energy has disappeared. When even small tasks or conversations feel like too much, it can be exhausting, and it’s easy to retreat from the world. I understand how difficult this can be, and I’m here to help. Whether you’re facing relationship issues, personal struggles, or family dynamics, I provide a non-judgmental space for individuals, couples, and families to work through their challenges.
Understand what is keeping us awake and learn how to have a good night's sleep.
We have all been in situations that we wish were different. We want someone who listens respectfully, to support and encourage us to get through this situation stronger and to be proud of who we are. It can be reassuring to work with a professional therapist to help clarify our thoughts, who will provide tools to manage concerns and assist in putting a life plan in to action.
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
I work with clients across the life span and from all walks of life. People come to me because they feel stuck, depressed, alienated, conflicted, lost, unfulfilled or curious. They yearn for a confidential, compassionate and inspiring therapeutic space where they can feel safe enough to encounter different aspects of themselves and their life circumstances with more depth, honesty, dignity and clarity. They hope to cultivate their self-understanding and to nurture their heart in order to find more ease and a deeper sense of belonging with themselves, their loved ones and the wider world; so as to live a life of joy and connection.
Exploring how non-toxic, natural biological approaches can support good mental health
Hosted by Peter John Webb
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Group meets in Hawthorn, VIC 3122
I can help you with stress, anxiety, or depression arising from toxic relationships at home or at work; facing a crossroad in life; strengthening your psychological well-being; overcoming negative mindset; enhancing your adult development; overcoming your self-sabotage patterns; and learning how to make wise choices in life.
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.
Hosted by Laura Petrie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ivanhoe East, VIC 3079
Do you experience aspects of your life as dissatisfying or distressing, this may feel like depression, anxiety, hopelessness or a pervasive self criticism? Such dissatisfaction and distress can be supported through Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy. Laura's focus is the development of a safe, trusting and reliable relationship which becomes the basis for exploring your thoughts and feelings, and generating insights about the sources of your personal struggles. Generating insights open new opportunities for more satisfying connections to self and others, and greater life choices.
Get the support and information you need to foster the wellbeing and resilience of your gender diverse child.
Hosted by Gender Therapy & Coaching
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Preston, VIC 3072
My name is Ari Heart. I am a trans non-binary person, a psychotherapist, coach and educator in all things trans wellbeing. I help trans and nonbinary people experience greater clarity, ease and relief, without months or years of ongoing talk therapy. If you are struggling with your identity, dysphoria, your relationship with your body, decisions about transition/gender affirmation, how you can navigate other people, coming out, finding your authentic expression, or any other gender-based challenge, you do not have to be alone with it. We can work together to accelerate your movement towards a meaningful, enjoyable trans life.
Connect to yourself and others through supportive musical experiences in a small group setting with a Registered Music Therapist. No musical experience is needed. Groups are held monthly on Saturdays in Thornbury, Victoria. Please get in touch to express your interest.
Hosted by Dr Kate McMahon
Registered Music Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Thornbury, VIC 3071
I specialise in using evidence-based music and counseling approaches to help you build confidence, manage big emotions and cope with life's challenges. You might be looking to cope with chronic illness, depression or anxiety, or to connect better with yourself or someone else. You might want to loosen the impact of trauma on your life, or build confidence. You might be looking for a therapy that goes beyond words and taps into the wisdom of your body and creative soul. I bring 7 years of experience working with people across a range of life experiences, and a dedication to work with you to improve your life.
Group-based parenting program. Teaching effective tools to deepen the parent-child connection and navgiate parenting challenges. To support parents with their uqnique parenting challenges
Hosted by The Family Hub
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Cheltenham, VIC 3192
Shoshana is a Clinical Psychologist and has spent the last 15 years working with children, teenagers and adults in various private and public settings. Shoshana provides a safe, engaging and compassion therapeutic space for clients to process and integrate personal narrative, access internal resources, achieve their personal goals, and come home to their authentic and wise SELF. Shoshana has a natural gift in helping people feel comfortable and at ease and has spent decades training in a wide variety of therapeutic modalities to develop the right tools to help people overcome their challenges, transform and grow.
Online series to experience the intersection of creative arts, Psychodrama & somatic practices.
Hosted by Jaya Narayan
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bundoora, VIC 3083
I am a body-oriented and neurobiology-affirming based trauma Psychotherapist. I specialise in somatic-expressive-experiential modalities to navigate the impact of complex trauma, chronic stress/ pain, anxiety, depression and burnout. With relational presence & intersecting the expressive art(s), Psychodrama, somatics and group processes, I foreground the wisdom of the body/ brain/heart in individual therapy. My focus is on resourcing & expanding our ability to listen to our emotions, imagination and impulses. If you are looking at attuned body led approach in service of ease, acceptance & validation, you are at the right place.
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.
Hosted by Kayla Cutajar
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Group meets in Essendon North, VIC 3041
Kayla is a Registered Psychologist and Director of Open Minds Studios. She has experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, and parenting issues. Kayla enjoys helping people understand themselves and their environments better and to feel more empowered in their lives. She finds joy in seeing clients feel more comfortable in themselves and their relationships. Clients who work with Kayla receive an integrated approach to therapeutic care tailored to their needs and interests.
Relax. Unwind. Sleep better. Alleviate stress and anxiety. Suitable for beginners and experienced. This time is designed for you to relax and unwind from your busy life, with techniques such as mindfulness, breath work, body movement and visualisation.
Is stress, anxiety, or worry a constant in your life? Do you feel overwhelmed by sadness, or find it hard to connect with others? Maybe you're struggling in your relationships—with a partner, children, parents, or colleagues—and feel stuck, unsure how to make things better. Perhaps you've even given up, believing things can't change. Together, we’ll uncover the root issues behind your stress and emotional pain, empowering you to set boundaries, make decisions,improve your well-being, and reclaim your life. As we work together, you’ll slowly find a stronger sense of self and confidence as your relationships and circumstances improve.
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)?
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.