Support Groups in T1P

For teens, therapy can be intimidating and uncomfortable; groups allow teens to gain perspective and positive feedback from their peers who are facing the same or similar challenges (Often with more success than individual therapy). Group therapy allows teens to gain support from their peers while also learning to support others. Practicing healthy communication skills can aid teens in managing everyday relationships and challenges. Our goal with these groups is to increase teens' confidence in handling life’s ups and downs. Common topics addressed: Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Self-esteem, Building Healthy Relationships, and Managing Family Conflict.
Photo of Halle Cockx, Psychologist, MACP
Hosted by Halle Cockx
Psychologist, MACP
Group meets in Strathmore, AB T1P
For teens, therapy can be intimidating and uncomfortable; groups allow teens to gain perspective and positive feedback from their peers who are facing the same or similar challenges (Often with more success than individual therapy). Group therapy allows teens to gain support from their peers while also learning to support others. Practicing healthy communication skills can aid teens in managing everyday relationships and challenges. Our goal with these groups is to increase teens' confidence in handling life’s ups and downs. Common topics addressed: Anxiety, Depression, Stress Management, Self-esteem, Building Healthy Relationships, and Managing Family Conflict.
(587) 842-0855 View (587) 842-0855

More Groups Nearby

McAtee Psychology provides specialized therapy & assessment services to children & adolescents, couples, and adults. Our approach is based on our experiences as teachers, coaches, and clinicians. Our initial appointment includes an assessment of your presenting concerns/problems and your goals for therapy. In subsequent sessions, we create a warm and empathetic environment, which empowers you to embrace the need to change while also accepting difficult experiences, feelings, and thoughts. Therapy intervention may include skill-building, education, mentoring, goal-setting, mindfulness, CBT, DBT, EFT, and other interventions aimed at your unique needs as a client.
Photo of Gavin McAtee, Psychologist, BA, BSc, MEd, RPsych
Hosted by Gavin McAtee
Psychologist, BA, BSc, MEd, RPsych
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2Z
McAtee Psychology provides specialized therapy & assessment services to children & adolescents, couples, and adults. Our approach is based on our experiences as teachers, coaches, and clinicians. Our initial appointment includes an assessment of your presenting concerns/problems and your goals for therapy. In subsequent sessions, we create a warm and empathetic environment, which empowers you to embrace the need to change while also accepting difficult experiences, feelings, and thoughts. Therapy intervention may include skill-building, education, mentoring, goal-setting, mindfulness, CBT, DBT, EFT, and other interventions aimed at your unique needs as a client.
(587) 803-3226 View (587) 803-3226
Sign up for Eye Movement, Desensitization, and Reprocessing (EMDR) to clear away traumatic memories, limiting beliefs, physical & emotional symptoms. In this all-women's group (& those identifying as women) you can feel less isolated and lonely. You are invited to share only the positive results of your treatment. Keep your traumatic experiences private. You can expect to reduce the intensity of distress of the memories. Feel a sense of relief. Get a mental health makeover! Get two hours of therapy for less the price of one individual session. An initial intake session is required. The last Monday of every month.
Photo of Ursula E de Vries, Psychologist, MC
Hosted by Ursula E de Vries
Psychologist, MC
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2T
Sign up for Eye Movement, Desensitization, and Reprocessing (EMDR) to clear away traumatic memories, limiting beliefs, physical & emotional symptoms. In this all-women's group (& those identifying as women) you can feel less isolated and lonely. You are invited to share only the positive results of your treatment. Keep your traumatic experiences private. You can expect to reduce the intensity of distress of the memories. Feel a sense of relief. Get a mental health makeover! Get two hours of therapy for less the price of one individual session. An initial intake session is required. The last Monday of every month.
(587) 871-4306 View (587) 871-4306
Our online DBT Skills Groups enables you to access the transformative knowledge and skills of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy in a safe and supportive group setting. We’ll focus less on talk therapy and more on the practical how-to of managing your thoughts and emotions in those moments you’re feeling triggered or stressed. Please review our website for more information about our skills group schedule, cost and descriptions of each skills group we offer: www.modsolutionsltd.com
Photo of Dawn Lewis - Modern Solutions Counselling , Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Hosted by Modern Solutions Counselling
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2G
Our online DBT Skills Groups enables you to access the transformative knowledge and skills of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy in a safe and supportive group setting. We’ll focus less on talk therapy and more on the practical how-to of managing your thoughts and emotions in those moments you’re feeling triggered or stressed. Please review our website for more information about our skills group schedule, cost and descriptions of each skills group we offer: www.modsolutionsltd.com
(587) 806-3868 View (587) 806-3868
For teenagers that are overwhelmed with their feelings or situations, feeling 'stormy' having a hard time communicating, feeling hopeless, self harming or may have suicidal thoughts. Discover tools of distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation and mindfulness. Incredible tools to learn how to self sooth. This group is for teens and their parents, so both/all are learning these helpful tools and working on their relationship. This is an 8 week program, 2 hours each week, pricing for individual or families (2-3 people) Insurance receipts provided and direct billing available.
Photo of Tianna McCay, Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MA
Hosted by Tianna McCay
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MA
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2H
For teenagers that are overwhelmed with their feelings or situations, feeling 'stormy' having a hard time communicating, feeling hopeless, self harming or may have suicidal thoughts. Discover tools of distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, emotional regulation and mindfulness. Incredible tools to learn how to self sooth. This group is for teens and their parents, so both/all are learning these helpful tools and working on their relationship. This is an 8 week program, 2 hours each week, pricing for individual or families (2-3 people) Insurance receipts provided and direct billing available.
(587) 507-5128 View (587) 507-5128
This Equine-Assisted Therapy group supports high-achieving tweens in learning balance, boundary setting, and self-compassion. This group helps strong and sensitive girls learn to make friends, and enjoy being kids again. Through creative projects, nature- based activities, and gentle discussions, we focus on confidence, emotional awareness, and authentic connection.
Photo of Kara Alan, Psychologist, RPsych, MACP
Hosted by Kara Alan
Psychologist, RPsych, MACP
Group meets in Aldersyde, AB T0L
This Equine-Assisted Therapy group supports high-achieving tweens in learning balance, boundary setting, and self-compassion. This group helps strong and sensitive girls learn to make friends, and enjoy being kids again. Through creative projects, nature- based activities, and gentle discussions, we focus on confidence, emotional awareness, and authentic connection.
(587) 742-7615 View (587) 742-7615
A psychotherapy group for girls 14-17 years old. Over the course of 6 weeks participants learn: How to manage relationships (family and dating). How to navigate social media, and cyber bullying. Make positive future orientated goals. Understand their own body image. Build self esteem. Please contact Phoenix for more details.
Photo of Dr. Phoenix Brill - Flourish Psychological Services, Psychologist, MC, RPsych, PsyD
Hosted by Flourish Psychological Services
Psychologist, MC, RPsych, PsyD
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2C
A psychotherapy group for girls 14-17 years old. Over the course of 6 weeks participants learn: How to manage relationships (family and dating). How to navigate social media, and cyber bullying. Make positive future orientated goals. Understand their own body image. Build self esteem. Please contact Phoenix for more details.
(587) 318-0526 View (587) 318-0526
Living in Recovery is a client-driven group, developed and facilitated by a therapist with extensive personal and professional experience. Ideally suited for people in early recovery from addiction, this group provides the opportunity to build a support network while learning to apply and reinforce evidence-based, holistic recovery skills and strategies for successful, long-term sobriety and healing. Our groups are continuous intake, and our clinical recommendation of one year in duration (the gold standard for post-treatment, continuing care groups), However, in the spirit of remaining client-centered we offer a six-month option if preferred. Flexible payment plans are available.
Photo of Shannon Lee Towson, BA, MC
Hosted by Shannon Lee Towson
Verified Verified
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2T
Living in Recovery is a client-driven group, developed and facilitated by a therapist with extensive personal and professional experience. Ideally suited for people in early recovery from addiction, this group provides the opportunity to build a support network while learning to apply and reinforce evidence-based, holistic recovery skills and strategies for successful, long-term sobriety and healing. Our groups are continuous intake, and our clinical recommendation of one year in duration (the gold standard for post-treatment, continuing care groups), However, in the spirit of remaining client-centered we offer a six-month option if preferred. Flexible payment plans are available.
(587) 209-4943 View (587) 209-4943
For families looking to register their Adolescent (Ages 15-17) in DBT therapy, they will enroll in the DBT-A Multi Family Skills Class. This class works in combination with weekly therapy sessions and phone coaching for in the moment guidance on skills use. This class teaches the four modules of DBT: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, & Interpersonal Effectiveness. It is mandatory that the parent(s) attend and participate in the class. The Skills Class cannot be taken on it’s own without the accompanying parts of Comprehensive DBT: individual therapy and phone coaching.
Photo of Jessica Heil - Inner Solutions™ Ltd, Psychologist
Hosted by Inner Solutions™ Ltd
Psychologist
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2H
For families looking to register their Adolescent (Ages 15-17) in DBT therapy, they will enroll in the DBT-A Multi Family Skills Class. This class works in combination with weekly therapy sessions and phone coaching for in the moment guidance on skills use. This class teaches the four modules of DBT: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, & Interpersonal Effectiveness. It is mandatory that the parent(s) attend and participate in the class. The Skills Class cannot be taken on it’s own without the accompanying parts of Comprehensive DBT: individual therapy and phone coaching.
(587) 742-5747 View (587) 742-5747
This will be a small group for 5-6 individuals to come together and learn about depression and anxiety, and emotions and how to manage them. There will be an education component and a sharing component. Please contact Joy at 403-651-4988 to find out more information.
Photo of Joy E Robinson, Psychologist, MSc, MSc , BSW, BA(Psy)
Hosted by Joy E Robinson
Psychologist, MSc, MSc , BSW, BA(Psy)
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2S
This will be a small group for 5-6 individuals to come together and learn about depression and anxiety, and emotions and how to manage them. There will be an education component and a sharing component. Please contact Joy at 403-651-4988 to find out more information.
(587) 419-5429 View (587) 419-5429
We offer a fresh and new innovative way for people to resolve their anger. Instead of anger management, we work with people so they no longer have to “manage” their anger, but instead, can resolve it. This practical 6-week anger resolution course is facilitated by Dr. Dustin Nau and Linda Belenczuk. What makes our course different? We do not teach breathing exercises, tell people to count to 10 slowly, or, to go to their zen place. No, we provide psychoeducation and proven therapeutic techniques to actually allow an individual to process their emotions rather than how to manage their anger.
Photo of Dustin Nau - Encompass Counselling and Psychological services, Counsellor, PhD
Hosted by Encompass Counselling and Psychological services
Counsellor, PhD
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2E
We offer a fresh and new innovative way for people to resolve their anger. Instead of anger management, we work with people so they no longer have to “manage” their anger, but instead, can resolve it. This practical 6-week anger resolution course is facilitated by Dr. Dustin Nau and Linda Belenczuk. What makes our course different? We do not teach breathing exercises, tell people to count to 10 slowly, or, to go to their zen place. No, we provide psychoeducation and proven therapeutic techniques to actually allow an individual to process their emotions rather than how to manage their anger.
(587) 800-5010 View (587) 800-5010
Begins Sept. 7, 2024. Practise offering yourself the love and compassion you need for the life that is yours, The 'canvas' for our art is a previously published book. The processes for altering become metaphors and inspiration for how we "re-author" our lives. Each week offers different techniques and theme. All materials provided. No "artistic ability" needed! Four weeks, Saturday afternoons, 3 hrs each time. See website or send message for details and to sign up. Art prompts are adapted from Art Therapy techniques but this is not specifically a therapy group. Art Therapy services are available for support.
Photo of Suzanne Styles - Resilient You Art Therapy, Art Therapist, PCAT, DVATI, MA Lead, BA Psyc
Hosted by Resilient You Art Therapy
Art Therapist, PCAT, DVATI, MA Lead, BA Psyc
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2H
Begins Sept. 7, 2024. Practise offering yourself the love and compassion you need for the life that is yours, The 'canvas' for our art is a previously published book. The processes for altering become metaphors and inspiration for how we "re-author" our lives. Each week offers different techniques and theme. All materials provided. No "artistic ability" needed! Four weeks, Saturday afternoons, 3 hrs each time. See website or send message for details and to sign up. Art prompts are adapted from Art Therapy techniques but this is not specifically a therapy group. Art Therapy services are available for support.
(587) 409-3670 View (587) 409-3670
Participants will engage with their grief and anxiety related to the ongoing degradation and destruction of ecological systems, biodiversity, and the realities of human-caused damage to the Earth. Using tools of body-awareness, mindfulness, breath, reflective questions, group sharing and processing, participants will have opportunities to express their fears, despair, as well their hopes, dreams, and actions for the future of our Planet and our species.
Photo of Agnieszka Wolska, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, CHT, RMFT, MSW, BSW
Hosted by Agnieszka Wolska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RSW, CHT, RMFT, MSW, BSW
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2H
Participants will engage with their grief and anxiety related to the ongoing degradation and destruction of ecological systems, biodiversity, and the realities of human-caused damage to the Earth. Using tools of body-awareness, mindfulness, breath, reflective questions, group sharing and processing, participants will have opportunities to express their fears, despair, as well their hopes, dreams, and actions for the future of our Planet and our species.
(587) 600-1131 View (587) 600-1131
Because life in a pandemic this is hard and every person deserves a safe space to be heard and supported. Group will meet for four weeks, starting on Thursday June 24th until July 15th, 2021, from 4:30pm - 6:00pm. AHS is allowing mutual support groups to be run in person as we continue to cope through this pandemic.
Photo of Angela Normand, Psychologist, MC
Hosted by Angela Normand
Psychologist, MC
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2G
Because life in a pandemic this is hard and every person deserves a safe space to be heard and supported. Group will meet for four weeks, starting on Thursday June 24th until July 15th, 2021, from 4:30pm - 6:00pm. AHS is allowing mutual support groups to be run in person as we continue to cope through this pandemic.
(587) 400-2145 View (587) 400-2145
This is a support group for adults who are struggling with BODY IMAGE concerns. This group will cover topics including, but not limited to, how to manage shame and guilt, challenging unhelpful core beliefs, negative self-talk, body distortions, working to build a more positive relationship with you and your body, and communication skills. This is a supportive environment where you can speak openly and learn skills to manage the troubling distortions that are often associated with eating disorders More info on the Program section of our website www.silverliningsfoundation.ca
Photo of Cendrine Tremblay - Calgary Silver Linings Foundation
Hosted by Calgary Silver Linings Foundation
Verified Verified
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2R
This is a support group for adults who are struggling with BODY IMAGE concerns. This group will cover topics including, but not limited to, how to manage shame and guilt, challenging unhelpful core beliefs, negative self-talk, body distortions, working to build a more positive relationship with you and your body, and communication skills. This is a supportive environment where you can speak openly and learn skills to manage the troubling distortions that are often associated with eating disorders More info on the Program section of our website www.silverliningsfoundation.ca
(587) 809-2420 View (587) 809-2420
Do you struggling to manage your emotions? Do you have rigid, black-and-white thinking? Do you struggle to maintain personal and/or professional relationships? Do you want to learn news ways of coping? Then this is the group for you! In this 14 week group you will learn ALL the core DBT Skills: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills. Group runs Sundays from 10:00-12:15 starting on January 22 Cost: $1399 Don't miss out. Contact today to get registered.
Photo of Jennifer Wright - South Calgary DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Hosted by South Calgary DBT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Group meets in Calgary, AB T3M
Do you struggling to manage your emotions? Do you have rigid, black-and-white thinking? Do you struggle to maintain personal and/or professional relationships? Do you want to learn news ways of coping? Then this is the group for you! In this 14 week group you will learn ALL the core DBT Skills: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation and Interpersonal Effectiveness Skills. Group runs Sundays from 10:00-12:15 starting on January 22 Cost: $1399 Don't miss out. Contact today to get registered.
(587) 803-3114 View (587) 803-3114
Register now for a 2-Day interactive workshop for couples in stepfamily relationships. Hosted by Registered Psychologists: Charles Coleman/Amy Corkett. *Develop a sense of shared meaning for your new family *Clarify expectations *Build on your existing strengths *Create a household and/or individualized financial plan *Use best practices for step parenting *Develop effective co-parenting skills
Photo of Joshua Williams - Journey Counselling Inc, Psychologist, RPsych
Hosted by Journey Counselling Inc
Psychologist, RPsych
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2Z
Register now for a 2-Day interactive workshop for couples in stepfamily relationships. Hosted by Registered Psychologists: Charles Coleman/Amy Corkett. *Develop a sense of shared meaning for your new family *Clarify expectations *Build on your existing strengths *Create a household and/or individualized financial plan *Use best practices for step parenting *Develop effective co-parenting skills
(403) 800-0755 View (403) 800-0755
This 4-week series offers a supportive space to deepen your relationship with parts work through breathwork, yoga nidra, intentional touch, and guided opportunities for authentic connection. Each session blends practical teachings with experiential practices to help you engage your internal system with clarity and compassion. My intention is to create a grounded, welcoming environment where participants feel genuinely seen and supported. If you have any questions or would like more information, please reach out. Please confirm your spot when you’re able.
Photo of Katherine Rosenstein, Psychologist, MA, RPsyc, RCC, IAYT
Hosted by Katherine Rosenstein
Psychologist, MA, RPsyc, RCC, IAYT
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2Z
This 4-week series offers a supportive space to deepen your relationship with parts work through breathwork, yoga nidra, intentional touch, and guided opportunities for authentic connection. Each session blends practical teachings with experiential practices to help you engage your internal system with clarity and compassion. My intention is to create a grounded, welcoming environment where participants feel genuinely seen and supported. If you have any questions or would like more information, please reach out. Please confirm your spot when you’re able.
(587) 405-9983 View (587) 405-9983
Is your child shy? Withdrawn? Lacking social skills? Are there conflicts with peers? Help your child flourish socially and emotionally. I provide group therapy based on programs such as the 'Social Thinking' program and the 'FRIENDS' program. Sessions are strength-based, drawing from cognitive-behavioural techniques. Sessions will start when interest allows a small group to be formed. Age range 3-12.
Photo of Sarah Jl McEvoy, Psychologist, Bsc, MEd, RPsych, TPP
Hosted by Sarah Jl McEvoy
Psychologist, Bsc, MEd, RPsych, TPP
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2E
Is your child shy? Withdrawn? Lacking social skills? Are there conflicts with peers? Help your child flourish socially and emotionally. I provide group therapy based on programs such as the 'Social Thinking' program and the 'FRIENDS' program. Sessions are strength-based, drawing from cognitive-behavioural techniques. Sessions will start when interest allows a small group to be formed. Age range 3-12.
(587) 317-2083 View (587) 317-2083
Building connection groups are designed for children and teens who would benefit from a group environment which focuses on helping them build confidence and self-esteem. They will also learn strategies to communicate with their peers and cope with their stress and emotions. This group includes both outdoor activities (e.g, team-oriented play) and facilitated classroom activities (e.g., creative arts, group discussions, role plays). Co-led by Chantel Cote (Registered Psychologist). Group begins when a minimum of 6 participants have signed up. Two co-ed groups: 8-12 yrs and 13-16 yrs.
Photo of Gavin McAtee, Psychologist, BA, BSc, MEd, RPsych
Hosted by Gavin McAtee
Psychologist, BA, BSc, MEd, RPsych
Group meets in Calgary, AB T2Z
Building connection groups are designed for children and teens who would benefit from a group environment which focuses on helping them build confidence and self-esteem. They will also learn strategies to communicate with their peers and cope with their stress and emotions. This group includes both outdoor activities (e.g, team-oriented play) and facilitated classroom activities (e.g., creative arts, group discussions, role plays). Co-led by Chantel Cote (Registered Psychologist). Group begins when a minimum of 6 participants have signed up. Two co-ed groups: 8-12 yrs and 13-16 yrs.
(587) 803-3226 View (587) 803-3226

See more therapy options for T1P

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in T1P?

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.