Support Groups in Enfield

Group supervision - There is space for two new supervision groups of up to 4 supervisees to start as soon as required in Enfield Town. I work in an integrative way using creative and embodied mediums with a psychodynamic analytic base. I have experience working with adults, CYP, parents and groups. Working in a collaborative way with supervisees supporting, educating and holding your work, giving space to think about what is happening in and outside of the room.
Photo of Nicola Wainer Ma, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Hosted by Nicola Wainer Ma
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Group meets in Enfield EN1
Group supervision - There is space for two new supervision groups of up to 4 supervisees to start as soon as required in Enfield Town. I work in an integrative way using creative and embodied mediums with a psychodynamic analytic base. I have experience working with adults, CYP, parents and groups. Working in a collaborative way with supervisees supporting, educating and holding your work, giving space to think about what is happening in and outside of the room.
07449 753486 View 07449 753486

More Groups Nearby

MBT is recommended for people who experience intense emotions, impulsive behaviours and intense and chaotic relationships. It is an evidence based programme that was initially developed for people living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) by clinicians and researchers at the Anna Freud Centre, London. The therapy consists of both group and individual components and for MBT to be successful it is highly recommended that participants attend both. The group therapy sessions are different to individual therapy in that participants get a variety of people in the group who might evoke different responses and create opportunities for therapeutic shifts.
Photo of Reema Patel, Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Hosted by Reema Patel
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Group meets in London N1
MBT is recommended for people who experience intense emotions, impulsive behaviours and intense and chaotic relationships. It is an evidence based programme that was initially developed for people living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) by clinicians and researchers at the Anna Freud Centre, London. The therapy consists of both group and individual components and for MBT to be successful it is highly recommended that participants attend both. The group therapy sessions are different to individual therapy in that participants get a variety of people in the group who might evoke different responses and create opportunities for therapeutic shifts.
020 3826 8325 View 020 3826 8325
We are all born into a family group, this is were we first learn to relate to others. Our first experiences are also lived in groups: nursery, school, groups of friends. Groups are our natural environment. Our difficulties in many cases are also experienced in groups and these are the natural place to deal with our stresses and anxieties. Group therapy offers a safe place to speak about yourself, your family and other relationships. Conflicts and worries can be explored with others who are going through similar issues.
Photo of Maria-Jose Blanco, Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Hosted by Maria-Jose Blanco
Psychotherapist, PhD, MUKCP
Group meets in London NW1
We are all born into a family group, this is were we first learn to relate to others. Our first experiences are also lived in groups: nursery, school, groups of friends. Groups are our natural environment. Our difficulties in many cases are also experienced in groups and these are the natural place to deal with our stresses and anxieties. Group therapy offers a safe place to speak about yourself, your family and other relationships. Conflicts and worries can be explored with others who are going through similar issues.
020 4538 1557 View 020 4538 1557
Men’s Therapeutic Group – Grow Stronger Together A supportive space for men to explore emotions, relationships, and personal growth without judgment. Combat isolation, stress, and societal pressures through guided discussions and evidence-based techniques (CBT, mindfulness). Topics include anger, vulnerability, purpose, and communication. For: Men facing life transitions, anxiety, relationship struggles, or seeking deeper self-awareness. Format: Weekly 90-minute sessions with 12 members max for trust and connection. Benefits: Reduced isolation, emotional resilience, practical coping tools, and authentic camaraderie. Break the stigma. Find strength in shared growth.
Photo of Rotimi Gabriel Akinsete, Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Hosted by Rotimi Gabriel Akinsete
Counsellor, MSc, MBACP
Group meets in London SE1
Men’s Therapeutic Group – Grow Stronger Together A supportive space for men to explore emotions, relationships, and personal growth without judgment. Combat isolation, stress, and societal pressures through guided discussions and evidence-based techniques (CBT, mindfulness). Topics include anger, vulnerability, purpose, and communication. For: Men facing life transitions, anxiety, relationship struggles, or seeking deeper self-awareness. Format: Weekly 90-minute sessions with 12 members max for trust and connection. Benefits: Reduced isolation, emotional resilience, practical coping tools, and authentic camaraderie. Break the stigma. Find strength in shared growth.
020 3319 6478 View 020 3319 6478
If you experience social-anxiety, feel excluded in social situations or insecure in your relationships, psychodrama could be for you. Psychodrama offers a dynamic and creative way to explore your emotions, relationships, and personal challenges in a group context. Psychodrama works creatively, through action and role-play to bring your experiences to life, helping you gain insight, develop spontaneity, and build emotional resilience within a supportive group setting. No acting experience is needed. Whether you want to process past experiences, improve relationships, or discover new ways of being, this group offers a safe, evidence-based and transformative space.
Photo of William Berisch-Secretan, Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Hosted by William Berisch-Secretan
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Group meets in London NW1
If you experience social-anxiety, feel excluded in social situations or insecure in your relationships, psychodrama could be for you. Psychodrama offers a dynamic and creative way to explore your emotions, relationships, and personal challenges in a group context. Psychodrama works creatively, through action and role-play to bring your experiences to life, helping you gain insight, develop spontaneity, and build emotional resilience within a supportive group setting. No acting experience is needed. Whether you want to process past experiences, improve relationships, or discover new ways of being, this group offers a safe, evidence-based and transformative space.
01803 222187 View 01803 222187
We are a group of 3 psychotherapists/ counsellors living and working in London, who set up a practice together called Teenmatters, offering specialist support to those at the beginning, middle and end of adolescence (which extends to the mid 20s) as well as to parents supporting their children through this period of transition. We set up our practice specialising in this demographic as were aware of the challenges and distress faced by many children, teenagers and their parents (such as family breakdown, school pressures, social media and relationship challenges) but also aware of the lack of provision locally.
Photo of Elizabeth Jane Straker - TeenMatters, Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Hosted by TeenMatters
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Group meets in Twickenham TW1
We are a group of 3 psychotherapists/ counsellors living and working in London, who set up a practice together called Teenmatters, offering specialist support to those at the beginning, middle and end of adolescence (which extends to the mid 20s) as well as to parents supporting their children through this period of transition. We set up our practice specialising in this demographic as were aware of the challenges and distress faced by many children, teenagers and their parents (such as family breakdown, school pressures, social media and relationship challenges) but also aware of the lack of provision locally.
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Whether you’re facing scarcity, abundance, financial stress, or feeling stuck, your money story goes beyond facts and figures. Using Systemic Constellations, we’ll uncover hidden patterns and open new ways to shift your relationship with money. Some will explore their own money story through a Constellation, while others will support the process – both experiences bring powerful insight. Come curious. Leave with clarity, energy, and new possibilities.
Photo of Anja Trenkle - The Therapeutic Rooms - Therapy in E1, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Hosted by The Therapeutic Rooms - Therapy in E1
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP Accred
Group meets in London E1
Whether you’re facing scarcity, abundance, financial stress, or feeling stuck, your money story goes beyond facts and figures. Using Systemic Constellations, we’ll uncover hidden patterns and open new ways to shift your relationship with money. Some will explore their own money story through a Constellation, while others will support the process – both experiences bring powerful insight. Come curious. Leave with clarity, energy, and new possibilities.
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Ecotherapy weaves together the relational aspects of self, others (group participants) and nature to regain a sense of belonging, identity and collective healing. The group experience draws upon spiritual elements and psychotherapeutic theories to create a relational wholeness of our inner and outer worlds.
Photo of Hulya Kusella, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Hosted by Hulya Kusella
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Group meets in Mitcham CR4
Ecotherapy weaves together the relational aspects of self, others (group participants) and nature to regain a sense of belonging, identity and collective healing. The group experience draws upon spiritual elements and psychotherapeutic theories to create a relational wholeness of our inner and outer worlds.
01260 545134 View 01260 545134
This is a supportive therapy group for individuals recovering from eating disorders, blending relational psychotherapy, parts work (IFS-informed), and psychoeducation. In a safe and compassionate space, we explore the emotional and relational roots of disordered eating. The group offers both experiential and educational elements, helping participants understand the psychology of eating disorders while practicing new ways of relating—to food, to others, and to themselves. Some of the topics we cover are: understanding the eating disorder as the tip of an iceberg, the neurobiology behind eating disorders, internal parts and their dynamics, body image etc.
Photo of Dunja Sullivan- Eating Disorders, Psychotherapist, MA
Hosted by Dunja Sullivan- Eating Disorders
Psychotherapist, MA
Group meets in London SW1V
This is a supportive therapy group for individuals recovering from eating disorders, blending relational psychotherapy, parts work (IFS-informed), and psychoeducation. In a safe and compassionate space, we explore the emotional and relational roots of disordered eating. The group offers both experiential and educational elements, helping participants understand the psychology of eating disorders while practicing new ways of relating—to food, to others, and to themselves. Some of the topics we cover are: understanding the eating disorder as the tip of an iceberg, the neurobiology behind eating disorders, internal parts and their dynamics, body image etc.
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Course Overview - What is stress? Facts and figures about stress in the workplace What causes stress? How stress can affect your health Signs and Symptoms of stress Stress self-assessment questionnaire Strategies for managing pressure and reducing stress: Prevention techniques & tips for a stress-free lifestyle Prioritising & diary management Quick and easy everyday stress-busters Exercises for relaxation
Photo of Kate Megase, Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Hosted by Kate Megase
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Group meets in Croydon CR9
Course Overview - What is stress? Facts and figures about stress in the workplace What causes stress? How stress can affect your health Signs and Symptoms of stress Stress self-assessment questionnaire Strategies for managing pressure and reducing stress: Prevention techniques & tips for a stress-free lifestyle Prioritising & diary management Quick and easy everyday stress-busters Exercises for relaxation
01798 305047 View 01798 305047
This group enables individuals who find it hard to express their feelings, providing a way of working with others to identify, share and realise that they are not alone. Discovering who you are, is one of the therapeutic gains of working with this group. Group sessions will discuss themes that participants bring, with no fixed agenda. Participants will engage what is shared, with curiosity, courage, honesty and kindness. Anything raised will be confidential, remain within the group, and participants encouraged not to meet outside of sessions. Facilitated by Dr Reene Singh and Mehboob Dada, both experienced psychotherapists
Photo of Mehboob Dada, Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Hosted by Mehboob Dada
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Group meets in London WC1E
This group enables individuals who find it hard to express their feelings, providing a way of working with others to identify, share and realise that they are not alone. Discovering who you are, is one of the therapeutic gains of working with this group. Group sessions will discuss themes that participants bring, with no fixed agenda. Participants will engage what is shared, with curiosity, courage, honesty and kindness. Anything raised will be confidential, remain within the group, and participants encouraged not to meet outside of sessions. Facilitated by Dr Reene Singh and Mehboob Dada, both experienced psychotherapists
020 3962 1127 View 020 3962 1127
I offer small group support and therapy sessions for your employees, staff members, management, volunteers, residents, etc. Long term or short term focused sessions with a view to improving your team's wellbeing. Critical incident debriefing is also available.
Photo of Susan Bailey, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Hosted by Susan Bailey
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Group meets in Romford RM3
I offer small group support and therapy sessions for your employees, staff members, management, volunteers, residents, etc. Long term or short term focused sessions with a view to improving your team's wellbeing. Critical incident debriefing is also available.
01708 973315 View 01708 973315
The Separation and Divorce Group is for women who have experienced the end of an important relationship and are struggling to move through their grief. It is run by two therapists with over 30 years experience between them in relationships and sexual difficulties , grief and loss and trauma and more. The group runs weekly in the evening. For more information please contact the facilitators Marilyn and Dorothy.
Photo of Marilyn McKenzie - Couple's Counsellor @ Islington & Brixton, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Hosted by Couple's Counsellor @ Islington & Brixton
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Group meets in London SW2
The Separation and Divorce Group is for women who have experienced the end of an important relationship and are struggling to move through their grief. It is run by two therapists with over 30 years experience between them in relationships and sexual difficulties , grief and loss and trauma and more. The group runs weekly in the evening. For more information please contact the facilitators Marilyn and Dorothy.
020 3962 0928 View 020 3962 0928
Our 8-week Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) course offers a practical, evidence-based approach to managing stress, anxiety, and low mood, and preventing relapse. Run twice a year in small, supportive online groups, it can be attended as a standalone course or relapse prevention programme following therapy with us or elsewhere. Each session blends guided mindfulness practices, group discussion, and cognitive-behavioural strategies to help you notice unhelpful patterns, respond more calmly, and live more fully in the present moment. You’ll also receive resources and practice materials to support lasting resilience and integration of mindfulness into daily life.
Photo of Tina Hollingsworth - Sereno Therapy Ltd, Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Hosted by Sereno Therapy Ltd
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Group meets in London W1G
Our 8-week Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) course offers a practical, evidence-based approach to managing stress, anxiety, and low mood, and preventing relapse. Run twice a year in small, supportive online groups, it can be attended as a standalone course or relapse prevention programme following therapy with us or elsewhere. Each session blends guided mindfulness practices, group discussion, and cognitive-behavioural strategies to help you notice unhelpful patterns, respond more calmly, and live more fully in the present moment. You’ll also receive resources and practice materials to support lasting resilience and integration of mindfulness into daily life.
01202 144430 View 01202 144430
The group is based on psychodynamic psychotherapy principles and using free-association explores on how things are for you in the here and now. Within the guidance of the group facilitators, the group will also explore how past issues and experiences are relevant to the present. The aim is not to prevent pain and trouble in the future, as unfortunately that is part of being human. However, through an in-depth understanding of yourself and your past, you can continue to build up your resilience so you are more able to cope with problems and frustrations of life.
Photo of Dr Roberta Babb, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Hosted by Dr Roberta Babb
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Group meets in London EC3N
The group is based on psychodynamic psychotherapy principles and using free-association explores on how things are for you in the here and now. Within the guidance of the group facilitators, the group will also explore how past issues and experiences are relevant to the present. The aim is not to prevent pain and trouble in the future, as unfortunately that is part of being human. However, through an in-depth understanding of yourself and your past, you can continue to build up your resilience so you are more able to cope with problems and frustrations of life.
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Are you experiencing difficulties in relationships or perhaps struggling to adjust to change or finding yourself isolated? Do you have questions or face challenges relating to aspects of your identity? If so, this group could be for you. Group Therapy is a powerful medium for connection, belonging, mutual respect and understanding. The insights gained in the group can be transferred to support important relationships and address life goals outside of the group. All new members will be supported through a series of individual meetings before joining the group. There is space for 6 members. The fee is £140 per month.
Photo of Dr Dean Flanagan, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Ed. Psych.
Hosted by Dr Dean Flanagan
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Ed. Psych.
Group meets in London WC1B
Are you experiencing difficulties in relationships or perhaps struggling to adjust to change or finding yourself isolated? Do you have questions or face challenges relating to aspects of your identity? If so, this group could be for you. Group Therapy is a powerful medium for connection, belonging, mutual respect and understanding. The insights gained in the group can be transferred to support important relationships and address life goals outside of the group. All new members will be supported through a series of individual meetings before joining the group. There is space for 6 members. The fee is £140 per month.
020 3835 6408 View 020 3835 6408
This course will empower you to become the best version of yourself. It runs over four consecutive sessions via Zoom and is interactive and uses evidence-based materials and discussion. Get to know yourself and your strengths better, discover what is most important to you - what gives your life meaning and purpose, and set a direction for your life. Learn well researched tools to overcome stress or lack of confidence and be able to communicate well to enhance your relationships. We will practice brief mindfulness skills to improve focus, attention, self-regulation and the capacity to appreciate life.
Photo of Debbie Brewin - Mind Growth Mastery, Counsellor, MSc, MBABCP
Hosted by Mind Growth Mastery
Counsellor, MSc, MBABCP
Group meets in Epsom KT19
This course will empower you to become the best version of yourself. It runs over four consecutive sessions via Zoom and is interactive and uses evidence-based materials and discussion. Get to know yourself and your strengths better, discover what is most important to you - what gives your life meaning and purpose, and set a direction for your life. Learn well researched tools to overcome stress or lack of confidence and be able to communicate well to enhance your relationships. We will practice brief mindfulness skills to improve focus, attention, self-regulation and the capacity to appreciate life.
01372 233828 View 01372 233828
MBT treatment is relevant if you have experienced any of the following: 1) difficulties regulating intense emotions that lead you to behaving in ways you don't understand, 2) chaotic relationships where you either frantically pursue or impulsively cut the other person off, 3) enormous fear of abandonment and trying to avoid it at all costs, 4) impulsive urges that make your life unbearable or lead to feelings of self-hate, 5) episodes of extreme emotional pain and attempts to stop it with self-harm, alcohol, drugs or sex, 6) rapidly changing moods for no apparent reason.
Photo of Luka Hadrych - Mind-Reframed Team, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Hosted by Mind-Reframed Team
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Group meets in London N1
MBT treatment is relevant if you have experienced any of the following: 1) difficulties regulating intense emotions that lead you to behaving in ways you don't understand, 2) chaotic relationships where you either frantically pursue or impulsively cut the other person off, 3) enormous fear of abandonment and trying to avoid it at all costs, 4) impulsive urges that make your life unbearable or lead to feelings of self-hate, 5) episodes of extreme emotional pain and attempts to stop it with self-harm, alcohol, drugs or sex, 6) rapidly changing moods for no apparent reason.
07891 901607 View 07891 901607
Freud said that our dreams are the 'Royal Road to the Unconscious'. By focusing on the symbols taken from the personal dreams of the participants of the group, this therapy group enables one to have a greater understanding of the hidden motives in their personal narratives and histories. The creative approach of exploring dreams psycho-dynamically enables the members to gain a deeper understanding of their own and of other's personal experiences. Self-awareness is heightened by beneficial identification within the group.
Photo of Margery Parsons - Margery Parsons, d.c.t.p., UKCP reg., Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Hosted by Margery Parsons, d.c.t.p., UKCP reg.
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Group meets in London W1G
Freud said that our dreams are the 'Royal Road to the Unconscious'. By focusing on the symbols taken from the personal dreams of the participants of the group, this therapy group enables one to have a greater understanding of the hidden motives in their personal narratives and histories. The creative approach of exploring dreams psycho-dynamically enables the members to gain a deeper understanding of their own and of other's personal experiences. Self-awareness is heightened by beneficial identification within the group.
020 3835 3273 View 020 3835 3273
Often, we may feel isolated with our problems, believing that no one truly understands what we’re going through. One of the greatest advantages of group therapy is the sense of connection it fosters, bringing together people who face similar challenges. Realizing that we’re not alone, and that we can also provide support to others, can be deeply comforting and empowering. Other key benefits of group therapy include: • Peer feedback and encouragement • Learning healthier coping strategies • Expressing feelings more clearly • Developing effective communication skills • Receiving emotional support • Offering support to others
Photo of Georgios E. Bligouras, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Hosted by Georgios E. Bligouras
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Group meets in London SW9
Often, we may feel isolated with our problems, believing that no one truly understands what we’re going through. One of the greatest advantages of group therapy is the sense of connection it fosters, bringing together people who face similar challenges. Realizing that we’re not alone, and that we can also provide support to others, can be deeply comforting and empowering. Other key benefits of group therapy include: • Peer feedback and encouragement • Learning healthier coping strategies • Expressing feelings more clearly • Developing effective communication skills • Receiving emotional support • Offering support to others
020 3984 7729 View 020 3984 7729

See more therapy options for Enfield

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Enfield?

To find a support group in your area, start by entering your city, postcode, 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 £45 to £60 each. In comparison, individual therapy can cost anywhere from £60 to £150 or more per session, even with insurance. Some therapists or organizations offer low-cost or free group therapy options, particularly through community centers or non-profit organizations. 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.