Support Groups in North York, ON

Group therapy has been proven time and time again to play a crucial role in recovery from addiction. In our group, you will experience a very non-judgmental atmosphere where you will receive support and guidance to assist you in your journey of recovery. Addicts live a very isolated and lonely life, often thinking that they are the only ones with these types of struggles. Joining a group if fellow addicts will help you realize that you are most definitely not alone and this "community" will play a major role in your recovery.
Photo of Betzalel Wolff, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CMAT-S, CSAT-S, EMDR
Hosted by Betzalel Wolff
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CMAT-S, CSAT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
Group meets in North York, ON M6A
Do you or someone you love struggle with alcoholism, drug addiction or compulsive sexual behaviors? If your answer is yes, you are not alone. Whether you are still active in your addiction, already in recovery, recently relapsed or dealing with the anguish of having an addict in your family, you are facing profound difficulties. No matter what the addiction-alcohol, drugs, prescription meds, sex, or gambling-its effects are devastating. I can help. These addictions destroy lives and families, who too often continue enabling behaviors that fuel the addiction.
(855) 999-6851 View (855) 999-6851
Elementary School Social-Emotional Classes Our youngest learners will benefit from self- awareness exercises, self -expression, social -recognition of cues as well as executive-function skills that will help them pay attention, remember instructions & directions as well control their behavior. Middle School Social-Emotional Classes Our students in middle school continue developing their social-emotional skills-including managing emotions, solving problems, making decisions, and gaining assertiveness skills to prepare them for social success and academic readiness of high-school challenges.
Photo of Alice Wiafe - Positive Kids Inc, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, PsyD(c, RP
Hosted by Positive Kids Inc
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, PsyD(c, RP
Verified Verified
Group meets in North York, ON M6B
Does your child need support navigating challenges like ADHD, behavioural concerns, hyperactivity, motivation, decision-making, focus, aggression, shyness, or other social-emotional issues? At Positive Kids, we understand how difficult it can be to see your child struggle. That’s why we’ve created a nurturing space to help children and teens develop critical life skills, in the following areas: self-control, self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making. These children ultimately become independent, confident, inquisitive, enthusiastic, responsible and compassionate adults in later years.
(647) 694-8867 View (647) 694-8867
As a counselor, I create a safe space for couples to openly discuss their issues and emotions. I help them identify underlying issues, improve communication, and develop effective conflict resolution skills. I guide couples in rebuilding trust, addressing betrayal, and fostering empathy and understanding. I encourage self-reflection, personal growth, and provide ongoing support to help them achieve their relationship goals.
Photo of Reza Eskandari, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCPA, PostDoC
Hosted by Reza Eskandari
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCPA, PostDoC
Verified Verified
Group meets in North York, ON M3B
I specialize in working with couples facing relationship challenges that disrupt their mutual goals, creating an unhealthy and unhappy environment. I identify and address underlying issues through tailored therapeutic interventions, focusing on effective communication, rebuilding trust, and establishing mutual support. My approach transforms maladaptive patterns into constructive behaviours, promoting a healthier, more fulfilling relationship dynamic. I guide couples towards a harmonious and resilient partnership where both individuals feel valued, understood, and aligned in their shared objectives.
(365) 659-4885 View (365) 659-4885
Do you want to talk about personal, relational, psychological, or spiritual or anything that feels important to you? Some of the themes we can explore in our discussions: How do I deal with my sadness, anger, grief, fears, anxiety, guilt or shame? Why I do what I do - addictions, unhealthy habits, or negative thinking? How do I find meaning or purpose of my life or make sense out of my suffering? Can positive psychology and spirituality help me develop more hope, empathy, gratitude or forgiveness? How do I develop Mindfulness, loving-kindness, compassion and empathy towards the self and others?
Photo of Poonam T Dhir, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RMFT, CCC
Hosted by Poonam T Dhir
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RMFT, CCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in North York, ON M2J
I trust pain is inevitable, but suffering is an option. In fact, what is right with us is greater than what is wrong with us. I help clients access their resilience, motivation, self-agency, self-determination, and inner goodness to reconstruct their narratives & live meaningful contented lives. I am Registered Psychotherapist; Registered Marriage & Family Therapist, & NIHB approved therapist (for Indigenous persons); working as a Clinical Therapist with CMHA. I have extensive experience in CBT, DBT, Couples Therapy, Sex Therapy (sexual dysfunction & sexual offence), Addictions (drugs, gambling), Forensic Therapy (minor crimes, DUI)
(289) 807-2732 View (289) 807-2732
If your loved one is an addict, you are going through a very difficult, frustrating, and challenging time. Our warm and non-judgmental group offers you an opportunity to meet others in similar situations. Under the guidance of a professional addiction therapist, you will receive the support and guidance which you so desperately need to help you manage this trying time in your life.
Photo of Betzalel Wolff, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CMAT-S, CSAT-S, EMDR
Hosted by Betzalel Wolff
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CMAT-S, CSAT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
Group meets in North York, ON M6A
Do you or someone you love struggle with alcoholism, drug addiction or compulsive sexual behaviors? If your answer is yes, you are not alone. Whether you are still active in your addiction, already in recovery, recently relapsed or dealing with the anguish of having an addict in your family, you are facing profound difficulties. No matter what the addiction-alcohol, drugs, prescription meds, sex, or gambling-its effects are devastating. I can help. These addictions destroy lives and families, who too often continue enabling behaviors that fuel the addiction.
(855) 999-6851 View (855) 999-6851
Sex addiction turns the life of the addict and family upside down. The group therapy - considered to be the most effective and successful form of treatment for all addictive disorders - will focus on learning to recognize & manage the consequences of sexual compulsion, completing the basic tasks necessary for successful recovery and healing, developing specific skills in order to avoid triggers and reduce shame, and implementing a healthy sexual recovery plan. In addition to the therapeutic benefits of group therapy, this type of therapy also offers clients a more affordable alternative than weekly individual counselling.
Photo of Betzalel Wolff, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CMAT-S, CSAT-S, EMDR
Hosted by Betzalel Wolff
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, CMAT-S, CSAT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
Group meets in North York, ON M6A
Do you or someone you love struggle with alcoholism, drug addiction or compulsive sexual behaviors? If your answer is yes, you are not alone. Whether you are still active in your addiction, already in recovery, recently relapsed or dealing with the anguish of having an addict in your family, you are facing profound difficulties. No matter what the addiction-alcohol, drugs, prescription meds, sex, or gambling-its effects are devastating. I can help. These addictions destroy lives and families, who too often continue enabling behaviors that fuel the addiction.
(855) 999-6851 View (855) 999-6851
This is a small learning group for practitioners working with disordered eating, body image, etc. We welcome therapists who are trained in Social Work, Nursing, Occupational Therapy etc. The supervisor meets the qualifications for CRPO.
Photo of Shirley Katz - Creative Transitions Psychotherapy Group, Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP, CCC
Hosted by Creative Transitions Psychotherapy Group
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in North York, ON M2N
Are you looking for a genuine, caring and effective therapist who can help you work on tangible goals? I am Shirley, a Ph.D. level Registered Psychotherapist and Supervisor with 27 years of experience, a University Psychology Professor and the Clinic Director at Creative Transitions. Our team of mature and genuine therapists all understand the importance of clients' needs to be understood, accepted as well as needing to make measurable change in therapy. We often see clients who are are intelligent, & creative, with diverse ethnicity or lifestyles. We welcome LGBT2SQ+ clients, teens, adults and relationships. Let us match you.
(289) 207-4802 View (289) 207-4802

More Groups Nearby

In this 14-week group, participants can learn ways to help their mind and body to get healthy. They can develop skills to manage cravings to use, identify and manage cues that lead to relapses. They gain knowledge of communication skills to manage relationships, reduce conflicts and relapse, stay on track, and develop a new healthier identity.
Photo of Trafalgar Residence - Trafalgar Addiction Treatment Centres, Treatment Centre
Hosted by Trafalgar Addiction Treatment Centres
Treatment Centre
Not Verified Not Verified
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4S
Trafalgar Addiction Treatment Centres is a CARF accredited, private, residential & virtual intensive outpatient (VIOP) rehab facility offering client centred treatment of alcoholism, cocaine, cannabis, heroin (substance abuse), and other addictive behaviours such as gambling, gaming, internet surfing, pornography and sex. Our treatment approach is collaborative, flexible, and individualized to engage clients into meaningful, client centred treatment goals. Trafalgar provides a concurrent disorder focus to treating addiction and the underlying mental health. Most people suffering from addiction also suffer from a coexisting disorder ie, depression, anxiety, trauma or PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) etc.
(844) 340-9650 View (844) 340-9650
GROUP START DATE: MARCH 2020. This 12-session weekly group, led by two facilitators, is focused on building social skills, emotional regulation and self-esteem in an inclusive, safe, and interactive environment. Our unique group will help high-school teens, ages 14-17, develop the social and communication skills (ie. making and keeping friends) they need in order to lead positive and productive lives.
Photo of Isabel Thorman, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Hosted by Isabel Thorman
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakville, ON L6J
Clients of all ages come to me with a range of concerns, such as marital problems, mood disorders, relationship challenges, parenting struggles and other disturbances. They want the opportunity to tell their stories without judgment, to be asked the right questions, and be heard and understood. With this in mind, clients are assisted in identifying clear attainable goals for personal change in a collaborative manner, and empirically validated methods are used to help them achieve their goals.
(647) 493-8092 View (647) 493-8092
I offer 1. Parenting Groups for the Parents and Grandparents in English and Russian 2. Psycho- Social Support groups for immigrants. 3. Expressive Art/Psychotherapy and Mask-Making Groups.
Photo of Alla Yasnogorodska, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MA, MEd
Hosted by Alla Yasnogorodska
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Group meets in Richmond Hill, ON L4B
I truly believe that everyone has his/her path in life and ability to walk it. I think that Life is an amazing journey. My role is to assist with navigation. I can help finding the tools to move forward or accompany a person along the way. I believe in our incredible passion for life and creative potential for fulfillment. "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become" these words belong to Carl G. Jung. I choose to be a social worker, a psychotherapist and a resilient person.
(855) 980-7584 View (855) 980-7584
Join us in a supportive and therapeutic environment to learn more about menopause. Each week there will be psychoeducation on a topic followed by group discussion run by Registered Social Worker and Menopause Coach, Monica Dosanjh. Contact us to be placed on the wait list for this group.
Photo of Suzanne Raitt - Path To Empowerment, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Hosted by Path To Empowerment
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Burlington, ON L7L
Whether you are struggling with not feeling the best, want to improve your life, difficult transitions (childhood to young adult, career, parenthood, separation etc), dealing with addiction/recovery, or loss/grief... life keeps us guessing. We are here to listen, help you slow it all down, and figure out a plan together.
(289) 514-5990 View (289) 514-5990
For occupational therapists who are earlier in their career or new to mental health and psychotherapy, I provide online small group supervision 1-2 times/month depending on the needs of the group.
Photo of Jennifer E Landry, Occupational Therapist, MSc
Hosted by Jennifer E Landry
Occupational Therapist, MSc
Verified Verified
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4E
At Insight OT we love helping people live better! Collaborative and client-led, we offer a unique therapeutic approach that draws on both psychotherapy and occupational therapy. We are serious about providing exceptional therapy based on individual needs and circumstances. Committed to a customized approach and practical solutions, we offer high quality, affordable individual therapy sessions for people with concerns associated with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, dissociative disorders, psychosis and insomnia.
(647) 724-4765 View (647) 724-4765
| COOL TOOLS - Social and Emotional Success | PALS - Playing and Learning to Socialize | KICK - Kind, Independent, Capable Kids | GIRL POWER - Leadership and Empowerment |
Photo of Tania Marie Da Silva (Behaviour Matters), HonsBA, CYC, CYW
Hosted by Tania Marie Da Silva (Behaviour Matters)
HonsBA, CYC, CYW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Toronto, ON M6A
Tania DaSilva holds an Honours Bachelors of Arts and Science Degree majoring in Psychology and Sociology, certifications in Cognitive Behavioural, Solution-Focused and Narrative Therapy, from OISE, University of Toronto, an Honours Advanced Child and Youth Care Diploma from Humber College, specializing in counselling, interventions, treatment and therapeutic activities. She is the Clinical Director of Behaviour Matters, author of Push for Happy, creator of Mindful Masters SEL Program and an on-air mental health media expert, seen in CTV, Global, Forbes, Toronto Star etc.
(855) 249-5362 View (855) 249-5362
A psychotherapy book club for current clients.
Photo of Maralyn Ellis - Maralyn Ellis | EMDR + Hypnosis, Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MES, MACP, EMDR, Hypno
Hosted by Maralyn Ellis | EMDR + Hypnosis
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MES, MACP, EMDR, Hypno
Verified Verified
Group meets in Burlington, ON L7L
EMDR is a therapy that has you focus on a trigger or trauma while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (eye movement, tapping or tones), leading to a reduction in the vividness and emotion associated with the incident. Thoughts, behaviours, feelings, traumas or environmental triggers may be maintaining your stress, grief, anxiety, depression, addiction, or other issues. EMDR and other methods can improve your physical, emotional and psychological health and wellness to increase your sense of well‐being, alleviate feelings of stress, reframe negative thoughts, or work through any recent crises or past traumas.
(905) 407-1494 View (905) 407-1494
Divorce/separation is one of the most difficult transitions in life. The separation/divorce groups take place virtually, including 6-8 individuals. The Women's Support Group takes place very Monday evening from 6:00 to 7:30 pm, and the Men's Support Group, takes place every Tuesday from 6 pm to 7:30 pm. The cost is $70.00 per group. The goal is to help participants feel empowered, gain validation and support, and leave with new skills. Please go to my website: awarenesswithstephanie.com to Book a free 15 min. consult so that we can meet, and I can share details.
Photo of Stephanie A Turner, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Hosted by Stephanie A Turner
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Toronto, ON M6G
My practice is entitled 'Awareness: The First Step to Healthy Living' because I believe that clients want to explore and become familiar with their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, so that life can feel fulfilling. We all experience confusion in life, questioning how to navigate the difficult stages of change, loss, upheaval, insecurity, and, hoping to feel content and accepting of ourselves. I hope to work with clients who want help in managing their lives, whether they struggle with serious mental health, or would like reflect on what they can do better.
(365) 659-4990 View (365) 659-4990
Learn the WHY and How to cope with trauma responses. 4 weeks- Tuesday August 4, 11, 18 & 25, 2020. From 6-7:30 pm. Visit my website www.idaciviero/book-online. Click on Trauma Support Group and Read and follow the instructions to book your spot. For glimpses of my work, visit my new Youtube Channel, Everything Trauma IC
Photo of Ida Civiero (She-Her), MSW
Hosted by Ida Civiero (She-Her)
MSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Milton, ON L9T
I am the 2012 Neinstein award winner for my trauma recovery work and I am a Certified Grief Informed Professional (CGP). I work with diverse human beings with diverse mental wellness challenges. ​ I practice compassionate inquiry with an anti-oppressive edge. I am unconventional & non-traditional. I value transparency, which means I practice with honesty & sincerity & honour how you show up. I assist in eliminating your self-doubt by guiding you to an understanding of the roots of blame, shame & guilt in your familial & social conditioning & how these manifest in “dis ease” in the mind & body.
(226) 796-5267 View (226) 796-5267
A 6 week Mind-Body Fertility Group for women who are struggling with infertility. This group is online. For more information, please check out our website at www.healinginfertility.ca
Photo of Amira Posner, Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Hosted by Amira Posner
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Toronto, ON M5G
I am committed to making your fertility experience better. Going through this journey does not need to be so painful. In my practice, I incorporate mind-body techniques that supports and inspire women, men and couples struggling with infertility. I developed the Mind-Body Fertility Program at Mt. Sinai Hospital (CFRH). This 6 week program is a mindfulness based stress reduction group geared to those who are dealing with infertility.
(647) 932-6243 View (647) 932-6243
Join our Women’s Therapy Group led by Registered Psychotherapist, Alex Elias in Maple. Starting September 27, 2023, running every Wednesday from 10:30am-12pm, this group session provides support for anxiety, depression, relationships, and life stressors. The cost of each session is $60 (plus HST) and is typically covered by most insurance companies. Don’t miss this opportunity to seek help and support. Contact Alex Elias to sign up or for more information.
Photo of Alexandra Elias, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Hosted by Alexandra Elias
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Vaughan, ON L6A
Now accepting clients in Vaughan and North York. I feel alone. I am scared and hurting and no one understands. I feel so overwhelmed or sometimes I feel nothing. I can't stop my intrusive thoughts. I am stuck and I don't know what to do. These are common statements that I hear from clients all the time. Stress, anxiety, depression, and emotion dysregulation are common issues that so many of us are dealing with. I believe that you feel alone and that no one can help you. You desperately want help and support. I think you are here because you want to share your story and be vulnerable. I am a safe space and I want to hear your story.
(289) 278-2484 View (289) 278-2484
Join a couples workshop based on Dr. Stan Tatkin's Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy® (PACT). This workshop will introduce you to proven principles which help create a safe, secure and nurturing relationship. Topics will include: How to better read your partner How to maintain closeness and intimacy How to deal with disagreements and misunderstandings How to improve communication with your partner During the workshop you will be guided to write your "Relationship Guidebook."
Photo of Lee Kraemer, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA, PACT ce
Hosted by Lee Kraemer
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, BA, PACT ce
Verified Verified
Group meets in Toronto, ON M5R
Lee works with couples on a wide range of personal issues and relationship conflicts. Lee's draws from a variety of psycho-therapeutic understandings, including psychodynamic, attachment theory, and contemporary concepts of psycho- and neurobiology. Education and training in various approaches allows Lee to put the specific needs and issues of the individual client first rather than fitting the client into a specific framework. Lee is a PACT certified couples therapist. Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (Stan Tatkin)
(289) 216-2648 View (289) 216-2648
A virtual 4-week group to give you the skills to master stress and anxiety using body-based "bottom-up" therapies. The group starts on May 7th and runs weekly for 4 consecutive Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 7:30 pm.
Photo of Reem Toubache, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MEd, RP(Q)
Hosted by Reem Toubache
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BSc, MEd, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
Group meets in Toronto, ON M5V
You may have experienced events in your life that have deeply harmed you emotionally, physically, or mentally. Perhaps you grew up not knowing what it's like to feel safe being who you are. These experiences may have left you with emotions that are conflicting or uncontrollable, or maybe you feel numb or disconnected. You may have noticed your mind tricking you by blaming you for what happened or leaving you questioning if you made it out to be worse than it was. These are just some of the overwhelming and confusing ways in which trauma impacts us.
(416) 800-3361 View (416) 800-3361

See more therapy options for North York

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in North York?

To find a support group in your area, start by entering your city, postal code, 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 $90 and $100 each. In comparison, individual therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 or more per session, even with insurance. Some therapists or organisations offer low-cost or free group therapy options, particularly through community centers or non-profit organisations. 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.