Support Groups in Victoria, BC

You have the power to evoke change by intentionally focusing on your breathing. You might not even notice it but the change can be enhanced by practicing with a group of folks with a positive attitude towards change. Dr. K. Alan Dawson, Psychologist practicing in British Columbia for 20 years, will provide information, guided mindful reflection exercises, and question and answer opportunities. The group will run once a week for 8 weeks virtually on Microsoft Teams. Please contact me by emailing info@dawsonpsychologicalservices.com if you wish to be added to the waitlist. See www.dawsonpsychologicalservices.com for more info.
Hosted by Dawson Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8N
Is your life cloudy lately? Are you feeling uncomfortable or irritable? Is life losing the meaning it once had? Feeling like a stranger to yourself? In psychological counselling with me, you can turn losses into gains. I can help you get a clearer picture of the patterns which get you stuck - as a spouse, parent, worker, friend - on the course of your unique personal journey. I can teach you some keys to help you get unstuck. Once you've worked with me, you'll have a choice among coping strategies to shift your life in the direction you want, in your relationships, your work, or your personal healing.
(855) 782-6583 View (855) 782-6583
In our DBT skills training group participants learn and practice skills in four key areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. The goal is to improve emotional and relational functioning through structured, evidence-based techniques. While DBT was initially used to treat those experiencing symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder, it is also effective at treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and addiction. This group welcomes members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community and it's allies. Please reach out if you would like to learn more about our group and how to register.
Hosted by Danielle Nori
Registered Social Worker, RSW, BSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8Z
I typically work with those experiencing emotional distress on how to better understand themselves, their emotions, and interpersonal communication. For some it helps to build tools for coping effectively and for others its about having a safe space to feel emotions without judgment. Or perhaps you are someone looking to expand your self-awareness and how you may live your most authentic life. I want to work collaboratively with you - whether that looks like short-term support though a difficult time or developing a long-term therapeutic space to explore (and all the spaces in-between).
(587) 804-5323 View (587) 804-5323
Women & ADHD – Unique Challenges and Effective Strategies Date: November 14 & 21 2024 (6-7:30pm) Total Cost: $400 Duration: 5 hours (Including 2 individual sessions and 1 workshop) Workshop Overview: Join us for an in-depth workshop series designed specifically for women with ADHD. This program provides personalized insights, practical strategies, and a supportive community to help you thrive. With a maximum of 8 participants, you will receive tailored attention to your unique struggles and experiences.
Hosted by Dr. Esha Chakraborti
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V9B
Are you struggling to find balance, navigating life changes, or longing for fulfilling relationships?...counselling with Esha can help! Esha offers a safe space for venting and exploring challenges, aiming for growth and clarity. With expertise in overcoming anxiety, managing changes, and building healthy relationships, Esha believes counselling isn't just about specific problems—it's about finding balance and embracing life. It's time to quiet your confused/negative inner voice and find relief. Esha offers collaborative, supportive counseling, blending emotional and practical coping skills.
(604) 653-3309 View (604) 653-3309
A free monthly peer support group for Vancouver Island parents of youth with ADHD. Join our facebook group to learn more. https://bit.ly/3CTKldb
Hosted by Mary Klovance
Counsellor, MA, BEd, BA, RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8R
ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider & ADHD-Certified Educator. Let's face it, parenting can leave you feeling frustrated, powerless and downright distressed. You're trying to help your child grow up to be a confident and happy individual. You wish you knew how to support your struggling youth and are doing your best but you just feel stuck and don't know what the next steps are. I specialize in working with parents and teens ages 14 + with challenging behaviours, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and addictions issues.
(778) 906-8626 View (778) 906-8626
Hosted by Sarah M Wilson
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8R
(902) 907-2332 View (902) 907-2332
This group will be offered in the spring if there is interest. The session will be 2 hours in length and will focus on the negative self-talk that tends to interfere with joy, life planning, work, and family. Learning new skills and strategies to manage thoughts and core beliefs will be central to this workshop. Sharing with others will be optional.
Hosted by Virginia Ronning Supervisor, Counsellor & Coach
Counsellor, MEd, RCC-ACS, Coach
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8R
Whatever your professional journey is or has been, you may be at a point where circumstances are interfering with you moving forward. You know there is another way, and with courage and guidance, you hope to develop new tools to explore, and gain clarity. I am a certified counselling supervisor as well as a clinical counsellor, and an executive coach with over 40 years of experience. I have also worked in diverse educational environments.
(855) 572-8468 View (855) 572-8468
Accessing non-ordinary states in controlled therapeutic settings through means such as cannabis-assisted breathwork has shown to mitigate symptoms of post-traumatic stress & increase overall well-being. In the week prior to the in-person cannabis-assisted breathwork circle, you will attend a virtual group preparation meeting. Discussion will include risks & benefits, what to expect, self-care leading up to the intervention, confidentiality, intention setting, & any questions that you might have. The in office session will last about 4 hours & will follow the format as outlined on our website.
Hosted by Carla Mae Leuschen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8V
I work with clients whom wish to push the boundaries of “normal” to uncover & deconstruct the root causes of their suffering. Many of the people that I work with are dealing with major depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, and overall frustration with the current state of society and the environment. The clients that I see often present to me with symptoms such as feeling blocked, overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, alone, and powerless in their life. I support clients to transform their pain into strength so that they can live a more fulfilled life.
(778) 743-5005 View (778) 743-5005
MBSR is an intensive 8-week group program in mindfulness meditation. Sessions include training in meditation, yoga & applying mindfulness to stressful situations in daily life. In over 45 years of research & practice MBSR has demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating symptoms of a wide range of health conditions. Julie completed MBSR certification at the University of Massachusetts starting in 2010, training with Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn. Julie taught MBSR in an outpatient hospital program in Toronto for 7+ years. She is currently in the planning stages for offering an online MBSR group program & would be happy to hear from you.
Hosted by Julie Giroux
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, SEP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8P
I offer an individualized approach to adapting & growing with life challenges. I help people with issues such as: traumatic experiences and loss, relationship issues, anxiety, insomnia, & chronic stress. I love working with people to develop their own internal resources, gain new skills, develop curiosity, insight and clarity, and explore new ways of seeing and being at times of difficulty and transition in their lives. I also have experience providing counselling for other health professionals and first responders. I know how hard it can be to take the time and find ways to care for ourselves.
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CHRONIC PAIN:This is a group for Chronic Pain sufferers using Visual Language from the psyche to befriend and ally with the pain and use it to heal. REBONDING THE BODY: this is a group for EATING DISORDER issues using Visual Language and deep messages from the body to heal.
Hosted by Emilie Kemlo Psychologist -Active Practice
Psychologist, MA, R, Psych, ACTIVE, PRACTIC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8V
Emilie Kemlo, Psychologist is a dedicated specialist in emotionally based trauma release work for 36 years with all ages,nationalities, and income levels, using a sliding scale fee, low rates and immediate availability. She is registered with College of Psychologists of BC, worked at Counseling Center of Tokyo, Tokyo International University, and in Vancouver and Victoria, B.C. with a deep understanding of all psychological issues, both Western, First Nations and multicultural Asian issues in health, sex, work and relationships. She was a founding teacher of BC School of Art Therapy, Victoria, and uses Bioenergetic Analysis, visual language and various psychotherapeutic approaches.
(855) 982-0964 View (855) 982-0964
Are you looking for a place to unpack a painful experience? Trying to make sense of how your upbringing impacted your view of yourself and the world around you? Confused about how people who meant so much to you could also cause you pain? We specialize in EMDR therapy and are here to help you make sense of your experiences and embrace all the things that make you who you are. Allow us to help you dislodge and reprocess traumatic and disturbing memories in order to allow you to live your best life
Hosted by Sally-Anne Haug, EMDR Therapy in French & English
Counsellor, EMDR, Cert, RCC, MA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8R
What if a few sessions could make the difference? You might have tried therapy before but it focused on coping versus getting to the root of your issues. You can't seem to shake the lingering feeling that, no matter what, you're just not good enough. We’re ready to go deep and help you put your anxiety, depression, trauma and triggers to rest for good. Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy offers highly effective, gentle relief fast, without the need for you to talk about your problems in detail. It’s time to move past the triggers and patterns that have been holding you back for far too long.
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At Vancouver Island Child, Youth & Family Counselling Services, we help children, teens, and families thrive. Our diverse team offers play therapy, art therapy, and parent support in person or online. We work with funders like AFU, CVAP, MCFD, and FNHA. Contact us to get started!
Hosted by Nurtured with Favour Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8R
Are you a parent or caregiver noticing your child is struggling with big emotions, attention, or social challenges? Perhaps they’ve been diagnosed autistic, ADHD or identify as neurodiverse. Maybe your family is navigating issues of identity, culture, or belonging, and your child needs a safe place to express themselves. They might feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or just need extra support. Together, you want a secure environment where your child’s voice is honoured, their strengths shine, and they can grow with confidence.
(438) 805-9756 View (438) 805-9756
**IN PERSON** UNMASKING: for ADHD' ers 19+ (self-diagnosis welcome). You deserve to feel understood. Starting January 7th, Tuesdays 7:00-8:30pm for 8 weeks IN PERSON. Join Ciara H & Amelia L, clinical counsellors with lived experience, to: address internalized ableism, learn systems that work for you & your unique needs, heal + build community, and celebrate your authentic self with others who get it. Cost: $550, (90 min sessions, can be covered by some extended medical benefits, sliding scale also available). Limit 12 participants. For more info www.unmaskingyyj.com or email unmaskingyyj@gmail.com
Hosted by Amelia Lowe
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8T
I work with clients who are curious about why they behave the way they do, and want to explore those patterns. In our work, you can expect a relaxed, calm environment - whether online or in-person, where my 6 yo black lab, Ajax, will join us. My goal is to help you feel as comfortable as possible: fidgets are available, eye contact is optional, and we go at your pace. I strive to create a safe space where you can trust me to support you as we dive into deeper and more challenging areas, while also recognizing the intersectional systemic factors that may be impacting you. All communities, bodies, and backgrounds are welcome.
(778) 767-2692 View (778) 767-2692
The Men’s Sexual Addiction Support Group consists of a group of 8-12 clients online. A Certified Sex Addiction Therapist facilitates our meeting. In this group, we help clients who struggle with issues such as infidelity, compulsive sex seeking, pornography addiction, love addiction, visiting sex workers, etc. Generally, we do a weekly check-in where all members can share their successes and struggles throughout the past week. We help group members work on strategies to overcome their addiction and the group members support each other in staying accountable.
Hosted by Dr. Jacqueline Armour
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, PhD, CSAT, ICADC, CPTT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8T
Are you struggling with addiction or the betrayal trauma of a loved one's addiction? My name is Jacqueline Armour and I would be honored to help. I understand the unique challenges of sex addiction and the impact it can have on relationships. With years of experience and extensive training in the field, my team and I offer a safe and compassionate space for individuals and couples to heal and regain control of their lives. Our expertise extends beyond sex addiction, we also provide support for those struggling with substance abuse, recognizing the complex interplay between addiction and mental health.
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ANGER IS YOUR FRIEND, NOT YOUR ENEMY In this workshop, you will get the experience you need to use your anger in a productive way. (Two groups start in October 2013: in Victoria, BC. and in Esquimalt, BC.) $195. for 8 weeks, $80. for second person To register : Contact: GINA KEEGAN, Registered Clinical Counsellor www.ginakeegan.com g.lodro@yahoo.com 778-265-8800
Hosted by Gina Keegan
Counsellor, RCT-C, SEP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8X
Most people want to feel in control of their lives, that they can progress further towards their goals. Most people want supportive human connections and respect and joy. I am sensitive to the human need of attachment and authenticity, meaning we all need human connections and want to be accepted as ourselves. Sometimes we don't even know who we want to be or who we are really. My work helps bring out these crucial needs to the surface. And then the pathway to meet these needs becomes clear, individual path, everyone's unique.
(782) 222-6387 View (782) 222-6387
Money Mapping is a deep-dive into the experiences and traumas that inform our relationships with money. Combining group workshops and individual therapy, this 14-week course provides the framework to heal scarcity narratives, redefine your relationship with money and move towards financial wellness. www.moneymapping.ca
Hosted by Robyn Dickson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V9A
Currently accepting new clients as part of the “Money Mapping Group” (see below). Do you tell yourself “I’m bad with money"?  Are you accumulating debt?  Do you avoid looking at your finances?  Do you undercharge and overspend?  Does the word “bank” make you feel uneasy?  Do you find yourself teetering between the feeling that money is evil but also, that you’re not worthy of money? These are common disordered financial behaviors; not only because we find ourselves in a capitalist society, but also because money can be both a source and a response to trauma.
(613) 800-6986 View (613) 800-6986
Creating Healthy Self-Esteem involves: how to build, strengthen, and maintain self-esteem; how to have unconditional self-esteem; understanding ways we give power away; how to communicate feelings, needs and opinions; how to understand emotions; and how to enable ourselves to pursue dreams and goals.
Hosted by Madeleine Sullivan Counselling Ltd.
Counsellor, MEd, BSW, BAA, RCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8R
You will receive a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental approach to counselling. I am an EMDR specialist working with PTSD, Childhood Trauma, Anxiety, Emotional Eating, Self-Esteem, Anger, Depression, Toxic Shame, Wounded Emotional Boundaries, Childhood Sexual Abuse and Dissociation. I enable you to create the change you want to see in your life, through positive self-talk and by eliminating negative beliefs around areas of self-defectivienss, responsibility, safety/vulnerability, control andchoice. These areas can keep us stuck and when we are free of them, we are able to create your own happiness.
(604) 256-4780 View (604) 256-4780
Relationship Recovery Process (RRP) Childhood Trauma Recovery Groups were developed by Amanda Curtin (LISCW) & popularized by Patrick Teahan (LICSW). RRP groups help heal childhood trauma and reclaim intimacy. Grieve the childhood you didn't get, resolve issues from your childhood, and reparent your inner child. Groups are available online worldwide and in-person. I’m fortunate to receive weekly training from Amanda and Patrick. Even if you’ve done a lot of childhood trauma therapy, I strongly recommend joining a group for their deep, longterm healing power. Childhood wounds that originated in family relationships heal in healthier group relationships.
Hosted by Suki Athwal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8R
Trauma has you feeling stuck and like you're drowning. You're tired of trying to create the life and relationships you crave only to end up feeling triggered and broken again. Intergenerational cycles, social justice, and climate issues add to your pain. You're desperate to heal from your childhood & complex trauma. You're ready to feel more connected to yourself and others. You deserve the peace and hope that comes with knowing you’re finally on track to heal deeply and learn skills that will help you for the long term. You're ready to dive deep, create new patterns, connect with your truth, and build a life full of peace and joy.
(343) 453-4967 View (343) 453-4967
The aim of this workshop is to support participants develop a regular mindfulness meditation practice to enable them to train the mind to come back to the present moment and meet what is here with kindness and courage. To come together with the same group of people over 6 weeks who can offer support and accountability to practice the strategies between sessions. Emotionally we will be exploring how to find the middle path between suppression on the one hand, with adding fuel to the flames on the other hand. Appropriate for anxiety, stress-management, depression, relationship difficulties, and addictions.
Hosted by Sarah Sinray
Counsellor, BSc, MSc
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8R
Living in today's world is hard and complex. Psychotherapies have also evolved a lot in the past 10 years, and the timing is ripe to heal intergenerational trauma. My approach seeks to meet people where they are at and provide a deep understanding from which change can happen. I've been a therapist for 14 years and retrained in trauma therapies such as EMDR and Somatic Psychotherapy halfway through my career. I have a lot of trust in people's ability to heal and change, having witnessed these profound journeys many times.
(587) 800-0673 View (587) 800-0673
Learning how to practice mindfulness can help reduce stress, improve your relationships, develop resilience, and cultivate compassion for yourself and others. Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) was founded 30 years ago, and is the gold standard for learning mindfulness meditation. The dates for the course are March 1- April 17, 2025. This course includes weekly 2.5 hour sessions on Sunday mornings including group meditations, mindful movement, discussions and teachings. There is a commitment to weekly attendance and home practice, with a full day retreat on April 6th. Please check out my website for more information!
Hosted by Andrea Weekes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8R
Do you feel burnt out, exhausted and overwhelmed? Do you feel guilt and shame consistently in your life and can't explain why? Maybe you're struggling with relationships with family or loved ones. I can help you organize your thoughts and feelings, create a kinder relationship with yourself, set boundaries with people and learn how to get in touch with your own innate aliveness. I specialize in helping people overcome anxiety, OCD, depression, and chronic stress. I have a warm and compassionate approach to counselling, and I am passionate about using practices that demonstrate, clarity, understanding, kindness, and growth.
(226) 784-1867 View (226) 784-1867
Facilitated by: Danielle Nori (she/her/they) RSW. This is a group by and for members of the queer community (allies also welcome!). With that said, all sorts of people can benefit from a DBT skills group - especially those who: Experience symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, or PTSD. Find it difficult to regulate their emotions. Find it challenging to understand their emotions and what their needs are. Struggle to communicate with others and find it difficult to create and maintain boundaries. Want to develop or strengthen their ability to cope with distress.
Hosted by Burn Bright Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Victoria, BC V8Z
Accepting New Clients! Life brings many challenges and we believe you aren't meant to do the work of healing from these challenges alone. Being here at this page is a courageous first step for you on the path to getting the support you deserve. Burn Bright Counselling provides confidential and compassionate support to folks who are experiencing emotional distress, relationship conflict, grief and a diminished sense of hope. We work with you to build a tailored support service to meet your individual needs during our time together. We specialize in working with LGBTQ2S+ and allied youth, young adults, couples and parents.
(506) 700-6542 View (506) 700-6542
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See more therapy options for Victoria

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Victoria?

Search for nearby support groups by inputting your city, postal code, 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 postal code 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.

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 about $90 to $100. Meanwhile, individual therapy sessions can run anywhere from $100 to $200. 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.