Support Groups in Bristol

We recognise the need for difference to be normalised in society. Appearance, relationship and neuro diversity are a fact of life for many individuals and yet all are still widely under-represented and unacknowledged in mainstream counselling and psychotherapy. We’re here to change that! Who Are We? We are a progressive, forward thinking Counselling and Psychotherapy practice, actively engaging with difference.
Hosted by Ian John Hughes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS9
A warm welcome to you; thanks for taking the time to look at my profile. I’m a qualified therapist involving Humanistic and integrative counselling. I have professional and personal experience working in and through Anxiety, Stress, Low Self-Esteem, Depression, intimacy, various addictions, and issues around bullying. I am ENM and Kink friendly, having experience working with those in non-traditional relationships and various alternative Subcultures or communities. I also offer concessionary rates ranging from £40-£60.
0117 456 2161 View 0117 456 2161
Come to understand trauma and how it affects our lives in a way that can help you with your own journey. Be part of an interactive group, learning the mechanisms of trauma, and how we find ways to overcome it. Benefit from biological basics, and how strong emotions like fear can have a hold on us from past events. Attend this 4 week group learning course and come away with new insights, a wider understanding of your own human experience, ideas how to further your journey and maybe even new friends! The group is small so is easy and comfortable.
Hosted by Nick Morecroft Trauma Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS3
Trauma focussed therapy for those with PTSD or life affecting issues. Delivered within a caring and warm professional relationship, supporting you to explore and resolve past events and situations in order to move forwards with your life. Suitable for anyone looking to engage and work on their issues, benefitting from the combined effort and professional guidance.
07463 189639 View 07463 189639
A women-only online, fortnightly therapy group of 6-8 ladies. Explore issues that matter to you with the unconditional support of fellow women. Share, listen and learn from others' experiences in a safe, structured way. Often, women haven't been allowed to show vulnerability, with societal pressures of perfection, femininity and motherhood. Members of this group will undergo a short induction, to make sure you and us will be a good fit and to set ground rules.
Hosted by Michael F Harris
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS8
I'm Michael Harris, a fully qualified therapist, governed by BACP, NCPS & BPS accredited counselling bodies. I offer Life and Wellness therapy in Bristol (and beyond) to individuals, couples, groups and companies. My Bristol Counselling practice (and beyond) is online, or by telephone, across English-speaking time zones, at a schedule that works for you. I help you find your Blazing Soul - balance and direction, clarity and focus, increased confidence and self-esteem, and improved mental, physical and emotional wealth.
07506 715611 View 07506 715611
Group is currently closed. Therapeutic pilot group for individuals with Binge Eating Disorder, incorporating CBT and Compassion Focussed Therapy. The group will have between 4-6 attendees and will be facilitated by two qualified Counsellors. The group will have a structured approach, working towards making changes based on the goals of each individual member.
Hosted by Aurelia Sleigh
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS2
We are currently living in a really unprecedented, uncertain and confusing time. Anxiety can rise, health anxiety feels very real, we can feel confused and lonely wondering how can we reach out and feel less alone, along with feeling listened to and supported. At the moment, every day there are new messages from the media, social media, and even the Government, which can feel overwhelming. Being able to sit with the unknown, the uncertainty of what will and is happening can feel really challenging.
07411 113466 View 07411 113466
We have A complete solution of psychological and neuropsychological health for adult and children. Please visit us on https://www.holistichealthcentre.org
Hosted by Dr Bishnu Upadhaya
Psychologist, PhD, FMBPsS
Not Verified Not Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS7
An enthusiastic, skilled and well-motivated Psychological, Neuropsychological, Integrated Medicine and healthcare consultant with more than 19 years’ experiences, promoting the welfare of patients, families, and vulnerable people. Experienced in providing specialist Neuropsychological, Psychological, Herbal Medicine, Naturopathic and Homeopathic Medicine Assessments, Consultation and Treatments of direct and referred clients based upon the appropriate use, interpretation and integration of complex data from a psychological and holistic approach and treatment and tasting.
020 3835 4892 View 020 3835 4892
Reflow, is a long Covid support group for people of colour. An online group (Zoom) which can be adapted flexibly as lockdown easing progresses. The group is hoped to be a co-created space for peer supporting adults with Long Covid and Post Covid 19 syndrome. Group facilitation will be initially held by Horus Wellbeing, and it's hoped, as a cooperative the facilitation will grow to be a collective experience. It's hoped the group will run fortnightly and the day/time can be agreed as a collective based on the majority vote. To find out more please contact me on the details provided.
Hosted by Horus Wellbeing Contemporary Therapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS5
Feeling safety in a complex world is no mean feet. Childhood, historic, or current experiences, interacting/reacting with the complexities brought about by the pandemic, can exhaust any capacity for resilience. maybe you're a parent/carer of children transitioning from the intensity of lockdown to the uncertainty of the easing of restrictions? Is this further complicated by returning to education settings for children with Autism, ADHD, FASD, SPD, trauma and attachment? Maybe you are a foster care or adoptive parent wondering how to rebalance the attachment bond after the intensity of lockdown, recalibrating interfamilial dynamics?
01275 402727 View 01275 402727
Are you looking for somewhere you fit and belong? The EarthShip is a group for 12-15 year olds who might be highly sensitive and sometimes find life overwhelming. Join us on a magical allotment in BS5 to: ?*Learn ways of relaxing in nature. * Make friendships, have fun together, play games, awaken our imagination. *Talk, share, listen to each other while crafting around the fire *Find ways of giving back to the earth. *Mark and celebrate the seasons. *Gardening & growing. *Storytelling to understand ourselves. *Finding power animals. *Connect with magic & our animal senses. *Make relationships with local animals, birds + plants.
Hosted by Wild Wood Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS5
I offer support for the difficult, deeper feelings of children, teenagers, young adults, parents & infants and expectant parents. My aim is to provide a space where you feel safe to bring and explore what is bothering you and where you are heard and understood. When we are listened to from the heart and met with curiosity and compassion it is amazing what can change in our lives. We can begin to understand ourselves better, find self acceptance and our own wisdom This can help us feel more self loving and better able to navigate the ups and downs of life. I offer sessions in Nature and/or Indoors (see more info below).
0117 463 3328 View 0117 463 3328
Childfreedom is a choice that some people make not to have children. While this is a deeply personal choice, some people feel pressured to have children anyway - whether by family, through intentional or unintentional peer pressure, or from society in general. This group exists to offer a space to process that pressure and is available online and in person.
Hosted by Cactus Counselling
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS5
Hello! I'm Hayley Watkins, and I'm a humanistic counsellor specialising in transactional analysis. I'm neurodivergent, and passionate about helping other ND people like me to navigate this mostly neurotypical world. I am estranged from my family of origin and specialise in supporting others who are either estranged themselves, or considering going no- or low-contact. Aside from these issues I will also happily work with a wide range of other issues including depression, anxiety, and low self esteem.
0117 463 3661 View 0117 463 3661
This group is aimed at people who would like to be able to express themselves and understand themselves better in a safe environment. The participants will be invited to explore the themes presented in the group through body movement therapy techniques and other creative tools. The goal is to help the expression of emotions and/or ideas primarily through movements and arts, complemented by verbal communication. The group will run for 6 weeks and the cost is £180. An individual session of 30m is required before joining the group which will cost £30.
Hosted by Ana Jorge
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS1
Are you feeling confused, lost, scared, or overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? Psychotherapy can help you to understand what lies beneath these emotions and support you in bringing balance to your life. I am a psychotherapist with a wide range of experience working with clients (children, adolescents and adults) in various places. In particular, I have worked in-depth with complex trauma, attachment problems, clients who are in abusive relationships and problems related to the body; I use body techniques to help clients to self-regulate states of panic/anxiety. Neurodiverse experience and knowledge - part of Attention Allies.
0117 463 6993 View 0117 463 6993
a therapy group discussing men's mental health issues online and in Bristol and Glastonbury. See www.yourtimetotalk.co.uk for details
Hosted by Christopher Guy Soloman
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS6
Hello and welcome to my page. I recognise the courage it takes to approach a therapist and would like to help you. Over ten years of practising, therapy has shown me time and time again how people can overcome their problems successfully and live fulfilled and happy lives. In today's pressured world, mental health problems are all too common. Maybe you're struggling with depression or stress or the problem is anxiety, or trauma, or grief. Perhaps you're struggling with a habit that started off as a pleasure but turned into an addiction over lockdown. Whatever the mental health problem, talking therapy can help.
01749 608528 View 01749 608528
A place to come together to discuss current issues that women from this background feel they can culturally feel heard and recognised in a confidential space. It is NOT a therapy group.
Hosted by BS2Therapy Rooms
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS2
Humanistically recognising the needs of an individual ,we see how trauma can be held at a very deep level. Working from the story of an individuals early negative & positive childhood experiences and using Integrative therapy in a number of ways to help the process of getting to one's core beliefs, helps to create a safe space for them to explore and release old patterns. This happens by building a trust with the client to allow their vulnerability to come through. Then, looking at the blocks or defences, via counselling and body Psychotherapy, a unique holistic approach to wellbeing, allows the journey back to health.
0117 325 3721 View 0117 325 3721
I run an ongoing relational therapy group at 7:30 on Wednesday evenings; there are places for new participants. Group therapy is a first choice of treatment for those motivated to explore and enrich their communication and relationships with others in a confidential setting. Under my guidance and encouragement as facilitator in this therapeutic journey, we explore interactions, dreams and imagination and find the confidence to define and develop the therapeutic level. If you wish to pursue this, we can arrange individual sessions to think together about what you hope for from being in the group.
Hosted by Peter Dorling
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS1
I provide Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Relational Group-Analytic Therapy. Working together, we create trust and rapport to understand and address unresolved life events and dilemmas. We recognise the complexities of relating to self and others, engaging dreams, the imagination and communication to become receptive to deeper, lasting change. By working individually with an experienced clinician, or, through sharing honest communication in a supportive, facilitated group, you can develop increased agency, greater self-worth and resilience, courage to discern a new life-direction, and, the confidence to explore relationships.
0117 325 4023 View 0117 325 4023
To begin in autumn 2024: mixed, open-ended weekly relational therapy group, of 5 - 8 (maximum) participants. Group therapy is a first choice of treatment for those motivated to explore and enrich their communication and relationships with others in a confidential setting. Under my guidance and encouragement as facilitator in this therapeutic journey, we explore interactions, dreams and imagination and find the confidence to define and develop the therapeutic level. If you wish to pursue this, we can arrange individual sessions to think together about what you hope for from being in the group.
Hosted by Peter Dorling
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS6
I provide Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and Relational Group-Analytic Therapy. Working together, we create trust and rapport to understand and address unresolved life events and dilemmas. We recognise the complexities of relating to self and others, engaging dreams, the imagination and communication to become receptive to deeper, lasting change. By working individually with an experienced clinician, or, through sharing honest communication in a supportive, facilitated group, you can develop increased agency, greater self-worth and resilience, courage to discern a new life-direction, and, the confidence to explore relationships.
0117 325 4023 View 0117 325 4023
A men-only online, fortnightly therapy group of 6-8 guys. Explore issues that matter to you with the unconditional support of fellow men. Share, listen and learn from others' experiences in a safe, structured way. Often, men haven't been allowed to discover their full emotional range, with societal pressures of success, masculinity and fatherhood. Members of this group will undergo a short induction, to make sure you and us will be a good fit and to set ground rules.
Hosted by Michael F Harris
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS8
I'm Michael Harris, a fully qualified therapist, governed by BACP, NCPS & BPS accredited counselling bodies. I offer Life and Wellness therapy in Bristol (and beyond) to individuals, couples, groups and companies. My Bristol Counselling practice (and beyond) is online, or by telephone, across English-speaking time zones, at a schedule that works for you. I help you find your Blazing Soul - balance and direction, clarity and focus, increased confidence and self-esteem, and improved mental, physical and emotional wealth.
07506 715611 View 07506 715611
Do you need support to manage your overwhelming emotions? Are you finding yourself coping in ways that just end up causing you more harm and distress? Our 30week online DBT skills group is here to help provide the coping skills and supportive community that you need. In a therapeutic environment we support you to learn tools to manage painful emotions, improve your relationships, develop self compassion, and enhance your wellbeing. Our program includes phone coaching outside of group hours, so you have support to practice your new skills when you need it! 1:1 sessions available alongside group if needed.
Hosted by Dr Shelley Kerr
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS3
We all want to enjoy the lives we have, not be bogged down in self criticism, overwhelmed by emotions, stuck in spirals of negative thinking, or be haunted by the past. If you find yourself here because you're struggling with anxiety, depression, painful emotions, self criticism, or patterns of coping that are damaging your life and your relationships, then you're in the right place. Again and again I have seen the power of compassion in releasing people from the suffering that can come with these cycles. With the right support you too can take the courageous, and sometimes painful steps towards becoming the person you'd like to be.
01275 402881 View 01275 402881
This group is aimed at people who would like to be able to express themselves and connect with others using movement and the body as a tool for self-discovery in a safe environment. I offer a free call of 10m to clarify any questions you might have regarding the group. The group will be running on the following dates: 16th May, 23rd May, 6th June, 13th June, 20th and 27th June.
Hosted by Ana Jorge
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS1
Are you feeling confused, lost, scared, or overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions? Psychotherapy can help you to understand what lies beneath these emotions and support you in bringing balance to your life. I am a psychotherapist with a wide range of experience working with clients (children, adolescents and adults) in various places. In particular, I have worked in-depth with complex trauma, attachment problems, clients who are in abusive relationships and problems related to the body; I use body techniques to help clients to self-regulate states of panic/anxiety. Neurodiverse experience and knowledge - part of Attention Allies.
0117 463 6993 View 0117 463 6993
Online rolling group supervision programme offering a space to think reflectively about clinical cases or professional practice issues. For more information or to join the group please get in touch via email or telephone. All professional backgrounds welcomed!
Hosted by Dr Lucy Kozlowski
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS35
I am the Service Lead for Third Wave Psychologist, a highly specialist clinical psychology & counselling practice. My specialisms are long-term health conditions (e.g. long covid, pain, fatigue, IBS, diabetes, obesity, tics/tourettes, neurological conditions, tinnitus, hyperacusis, misophonia) & supporting people undertaking elective & cosmetic surgery. I also specialise in perinatal mental health (e.g. antenatal & postnatal depression, anxiety, IVF, parental issues) & staff & student wellbeing, including common mental health issues (e.g. stress, low mood, anger, adjustment, anxiety, trauma, bereavement & self-esteem).
0117 456 2479 View 0117 456 2479
A series of online workshops exploring wellness strategies to reduce distress and enhance functioning and wellbeing. Workshops include: Relaxation Skills; Stress Management; Sleep Hygiene; Communication Skills Training. For more information or to register your details please do get in touch via email.
Hosted by Dr Lucy Kozlowski
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bristol BS35
I am the Service Lead for Third Wave Psychologist, a highly specialist clinical psychology & counselling practice. My specialisms are long-term health conditions (e.g. long covid, pain, fatigue, IBS, diabetes, obesity, tics/tourettes, neurological conditions, tinnitus, hyperacusis, misophonia) & supporting people undertaking elective & cosmetic surgery. I also specialise in perinatal mental health (e.g. antenatal & postnatal depression, anxiety, IVF, parental issues) & staff & student wellbeing, including common mental health issues (e.g. stress, low mood, anger, adjustment, anxiety, trauma, bereavement & self-esteem).
0117 456 2479 View 0117 456 2479

More Groups Nearby

This is a FREE, informal group. It is about women supporting each other in their mental and physical wellbeing. Getting out in the fresh air, walking and talking. I try to organise one a month which I will put in the EVENTS Tab on its Facebook page.
Hosted by Tori Harper
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Group meets in Weston-super-Mare BS22
Outdoor Therapist. I understand that this may be a daunting step for you and I aim to make it as comfortable as I can. Perhaps something specific has triggered how you are feeling, or maybe something in your past is weighing you down. Experiencing anxiety, depression or anger issues you want to get under control? Feeling overwhelmed? We can look at practical ways of coping. You may even have a MH diagnosis and want to explore what this means to your life now. If you decide you want to dig deeper, uncover the origins of these feelings I will be right by your side. And if you need to keep that door shut for now, that's OK too.
01275 402719 View 01275 402719
I will soon be offering outdoor group therapy at various locations in the form of day retreats / events in collaboration with professionals in their field. These will take the form of walks, forest school, bush-craft, meditation/mindfulness in nature, etc. Examples of groups include Teens, Domestic Abuse Survivors, Carers/Young Carers, Recovering addicts, Daughters of Narcissistic Mothers, Survivors of Childhood Trauma, Blue Light Personnel, etc.
Hosted by Tori Harper
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Group meets in Weston-super-Mare BS22
Outdoor Therapist. I understand that this may be a daunting step for you and I aim to make it as comfortable as I can. Perhaps something specific has triggered how you are feeling, or maybe something in your past is weighing you down. Experiencing anxiety, depression or anger issues you want to get under control? Feeling overwhelmed? We can look at practical ways of coping. You may even have a MH diagnosis and want to explore what this means to your life now. If you decide you want to dig deeper, uncover the origins of these feelings I will be right by your side. And if you need to keep that door shut for now, that's OK too.
01275 402719 View 01275 402719

See more therapy options for Bristol

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Bristol?

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.

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 £45 to £60. Meanwhile, individual therapy sessions can run anywhere from £60 to £150. 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.