Support Groups in 37216

Experience transformative healing with our Psychedelic Integration Group in. This intimate gathering, limited to eight participants, provides a safe space to discuss and process psychedelic experiences. Led by experienced facilitators, the group offers guidance, peer support, and practical tools for integrating these profound journeys into daily life. Explore the depths of your consciousness, share insights, and foster connections within a confidential and empathetic environment. Whether you're a seasoned psychonaut or new to the realm, our group promotes understanding, growth, and harmony in the aftermath of psychedelic exploration. Join us on a journey of self-discovery and communal support.
Photo of Lauren Russell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Lauren Russell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37216
Experience transformative healing with our Psychedelic Integration Group in. This intimate gathering, limited to eight participants, provides a safe space to discuss and process psychedelic experiences. Led by experienced facilitators, the group offers guidance, peer support, and practical tools for integrating these profound journeys into daily life. Explore the depths of your consciousness, share insights, and foster connections within a confidential and empathetic environment. Whether you're a seasoned psychonaut or new to the realm, our group promotes understanding, growth, and harmony in the aftermath of psychedelic exploration. Join us on a journey of self-discovery and communal support.
(615) 235-5207 View (615) 235-5207
DEVELOP RESILIENCE IN A WORLD OVERWHELMED BY EXISTENTIAL THREATS AND MEDIA-DRIVEN FEAR. Join us for an in-person, interactive and supportive, skill-based group where we learn and cultivate strategies for coping during these turbulent times. In our 3 hour workshop we will discuss the impact of political, environmental, social, and existential stress on mental health. Identify personal triggers and stressors; explore and develop effective coping strategies. Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques. Understand and build resilience. Strengthen personal support networks. Explore advocacy as a tool for empowerment. This group is NOT a forum for political discussion or policy debate!
Photo of Melissa E Crim, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Hosted by Melissa E Crim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37216
DEVELOP RESILIENCE IN A WORLD OVERWHELMED BY EXISTENTIAL THREATS AND MEDIA-DRIVEN FEAR. Join us for an in-person, interactive and supportive, skill-based group where we learn and cultivate strategies for coping during these turbulent times. In our 3 hour workshop we will discuss the impact of political, environmental, social, and existential stress on mental health. Identify personal triggers and stressors; explore and develop effective coping strategies. Practice mindfulness and grounding techniques. Understand and build resilience. Strengthen personal support networks. Explore advocacy as a tool for empowerment. This group is NOT a forum for political discussion or policy debate!
(615) 492-2177 View (615) 492-2177
This group is for individuals who identify as gender or sexual minorities (LGBTQIA+) whom are looking to take a deeper look at: identity, attachment styles and relationship styles, as well as expanding skill sets in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness
Photo of Karl S Bolton, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC, II
Hosted by Karl S Bolton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC, II
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37216
This group is for individuals who identify as gender or sexual minorities (LGBTQIA+) whom are looking to take a deeper look at: identity, attachment styles and relationship styles, as well as expanding skill sets in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness
(615) 258-6794 View (615) 258-6794
Journey alongside others for a 6-week interactive (closed) group focused on navigating the grief process. This group may take place in person or via a virtual platform and will take place at least quarterly.
Photo of Mekel S. Harris, Psychologist, PhD, HSP, NCSP, PMH-C, CAGCS
Hosted by Mekel S. Harris
Psychologist, PhD, HSP, NCSP, PMH-C, CAGCS
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37216
Journey alongside others for a 6-week interactive (closed) group focused on navigating the grief process. This group may take place in person or via a virtual platform and will take place at least quarterly.
(901) 545-2605 View (901) 545-2605
Once monthly resourcing group for healing and creative professionals looking to explore movement and touch.
Photo of Sarah Broyles Ledbetter, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Hosted by Sarah Broyles Ledbetter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37216
Once monthly resourcing group for healing and creative professionals looking to explore movement and touch.
(615) 471-7631 View (615) 471-7631
Too much? Not enough? We understand it, all to well. You're not the problem! A 6 week journey to YOU - inspired by the music of TS. Find your place in this world. You ready for change? Reclaim your Innocence. You can begin again. Clear your own space. Call it what you want. ME! Myself and I. I know, you're trying. Your happiness matters. You're not on your own, kid. Join us for this 6 week journey. Be your own love story! You are so much more than enough. Ready for it?
Photo of Melissa E Crim, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Hosted by Melissa E Crim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37216
Too much? Not enough? We understand it, all to well. You're not the problem! A 6 week journey to YOU - inspired by the music of TS. Find your place in this world. You ready for change? Reclaim your Innocence. You can begin again. Clear your own space. Call it what you want. ME! Myself and I. I know, you're trying. Your happiness matters. You're not on your own, kid. Join us for this 6 week journey. Be your own love story! You are so much more than enough. Ready for it?
(615) 492-2177 View (615) 492-2177
$250 A MONTH: 4 GROUPS, 4 RECOVERY COACH SESSIONS, 1 THERAPY SESSION. Aftercare or continuing recovery group for: co-occuring disorders, chronic relapse, codependency, family of origin issues etc. A great option for those leaving treatment or looking to continue therapy affordably.
Photo of Karl S Bolton, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC, II
Hosted by Karl S Bolton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC, II
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37216
$250 A MONTH: 4 GROUPS, 4 RECOVERY COACH SESSIONS, 1 THERAPY SESSION. Aftercare or continuing recovery group for: co-occuring disorders, chronic relapse, codependency, family of origin issues etc. A great option for those leaving treatment or looking to continue therapy affordably.
(615) 258-6794 View (615) 258-6794
$250 A MONTH: 4 GROUPS, 4 RECOVERY COACH SESSIONS, 1 THERAPY SESSION. Aftercare or continuing recovery group for: co-occuring disorders, chronic relapse, codependency, family of origin issues etc. A great option for those leaving treatment or looking to continue therapy affordably.
Photo of Karl S Bolton, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC, II
Hosted by Karl S Bolton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC, II
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37216
$250 A MONTH: 4 GROUPS, 4 RECOVERY COACH SESSIONS, 1 THERAPY SESSION. Aftercare or continuing recovery group for: co-occuring disorders, chronic relapse, codependency, family of origin issues etc. A great option for those leaving treatment or looking to continue therapy affordably.
(615) 258-6794 View (615) 258-6794
Embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and healing in an immersive nature-based therapy workshop and groups . Explore the origins of harm and disconnection, often influenced by religious experiences, and rediscover the path to embracing a profound connection with self, others, and spirit, guided by the elements and the sanctuary of nature. Each month can include a combination of group discussions, reflective exercises, mindfulness practices, and nature-based activities tailored to the monthly theme.
Photo of Melissa E Crim, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Hosted by Melissa E Crim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37216
Embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery and healing in an immersive nature-based therapy workshop and groups . Explore the origins of harm and disconnection, often influenced by religious experiences, and rediscover the path to embracing a profound connection with self, others, and spirit, guided by the elements and the sanctuary of nature. Each month can include a combination of group discussions, reflective exercises, mindfulness practices, and nature-based activities tailored to the monthly theme.
(615) 492-2177 View (615) 492-2177

More Groups Nearby

This group has a maximum of eight participants, men and women. Participants will already have had some individual therapy and are ready for the dynamic experience of group. The group's focus is not on one particular issue but is about one's life and relationships - including relationship with self. I am a current Clinical Member of the American Group Psychotherapy Association and am a Certified Group Psychotherapist. We meet Wednesday afternoons, 4:30 - 6:00. The fee is $65 per session. If you or someone you know might be interested in this group, please contact me. Thanks for your interest!
Photo of Michael Murphy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MFA, LCSW, CGP
Hosted by Michael Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MFA, LCSW, CGP
Group meets in Brentwood, TN 37027
This group has a maximum of eight participants, men and women. Participants will already have had some individual therapy and are ready for the dynamic experience of group. The group's focus is not on one particular issue but is about one's life and relationships - including relationship with self. I am a current Clinical Member of the American Group Psychotherapy Association and am a Certified Group Psychotherapist. We meet Wednesday afternoons, 4:30 - 6:00. The fee is $65 per session. If you or someone you know might be interested in this group, please contact me. Thanks for your interest!
(615) 538-0164 View (615) 538-0164
This group will meet the supervision needs of counselors seeking licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors. Please reach out if you are interested.
Photo of Jen Adams Biddle, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, ACS
Hosted by Jen Adams Biddle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, ACS
Group meets in Franklin, TN 37067
This group will meet the supervision needs of counselors seeking licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors. Please reach out if you are interested.
(615) 640-1397 View (615) 640-1397
We believe group treatment helps people connect with others and build lifelong skills. At Charlie Health, our curated groups include CBT Groups, CFT Groups, DBT Skills Groups, ACT Groups, Experiential Therapy Groups, Processing Groups, Trauma Groups, and more. Clients meet in groups three times per week, with each day focusing on new processing and emotional awareness skills. We also have specific groups for veterans, new moms, neurodivergent individuals, BIPOC individuals, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Photo of Charlie Health
Hosted by Charlie Health
Not Verified Not Verified
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37210
We believe group treatment helps people connect with others and build lifelong skills. At Charlie Health, our curated groups include CBT Groups, CFT Groups, DBT Skills Groups, ACT Groups, Experiential Therapy Groups, Processing Groups, Trauma Groups, and more. Clients meet in groups three times per week, with each day focusing on new processing and emotional awareness skills. We also have specific groups for veterans, new moms, neurodivergent individuals, BIPOC individuals, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
(629) 253-6512 View (629) 253-6512
Men and women addressing challenges of living productive and meaningful professional and personal lives. Common issues are interpersonal challenges; addictive behavior; balancing personal life and professional pursuits; achieving authenticity and emotional depth in relationships; setting and achieving goals; etc. Any issue that is important to you can be brought to the group. Each member will explore their self-limiting patterns in relationship and offer feedback and support to group members. An initial screening interview is required for anyone joining the group. For more info check out https://www.grouptherapynashville.com
Photo of Megan Moir Flores, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, MHSP
Hosted by Megan Moir Flores
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC, MHSP
Group meets in Brentwood, TN 37027
Men and women addressing challenges of living productive and meaningful professional and personal lives. Common issues are interpersonal challenges; addictive behavior; balancing personal life and professional pursuits; achieving authenticity and emotional depth in relationships; setting and achieving goals; etc. Any issue that is important to you can be brought to the group. Each member will explore their self-limiting patterns in relationship and offer feedback and support to group members. An initial screening interview is required for anyone joining the group. For more info check out https://www.grouptherapynashville.com
(629) 258-6448 View (629) 258-6448
For professional musicians, choosing a life of sobriety can be very difficult. Without support, it can lead to social isolation, anxiety, depression, career confusion and difficulty navigating relationships. Sober Train is group therapy for musicians who want to choose a sober life. Facilitated by psychotherapist and lifelong music industry professional Odelia Powell, the group works towards resolving underlying issues that have contributed to unhealthy substance use. The goal of the group is to help participants stay connected with their professional and artistic endeavors, while strengthening their personal and social lives. The group meets weekly and is accepting new members.
Photo of Zev Elman - Kav Counseling - for Creative Professionals, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ESQ
Hosted by Kav Counseling - for Creative Professionals
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ESQ
Group meets in Old Hickory, TN 37138
For professional musicians, choosing a life of sobriety can be very difficult. Without support, it can lead to social isolation, anxiety, depression, career confusion and difficulty navigating relationships. Sober Train is group therapy for musicians who want to choose a sober life. Facilitated by psychotherapist and lifelong music industry professional Odelia Powell, the group works towards resolving underlying issues that have contributed to unhealthy substance use. The goal of the group is to help participants stay connected with their professional and artistic endeavors, while strengthening their personal and social lives. The group meets weekly and is accepting new members.
(929) 822-4634 View (929) 822-4634
Community Project - Free Group. This is for high school students that struggle with the demands of advanced honors, honor roll, perfectionism, anxious test takers, stress or academic burn out. Meetings will focus on balancing routines, mindfulness, coping, communication, support systems, study habits, changing perspective, interpersonal effectiveness, and managing goals. The group is for students that are stable but would benefit from learning stress management. This will be an interactive psychoeducation group. The group focus is emotional health not complex issues. It will be lead by a licensed clinician & will include an assisting high school senior. No fee this is a community offering.
Photo of Sheri Richardt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Sheri Richardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Murfreesboro, TN 37129
Community Project - Free Group. This is for high school students that struggle with the demands of advanced honors, honor roll, perfectionism, anxious test takers, stress or academic burn out. Meetings will focus on balancing routines, mindfulness, coping, communication, support systems, study habits, changing perspective, interpersonal effectiveness, and managing goals. The group is for students that are stable but would benefit from learning stress management. This will be an interactive psychoeducation group. The group focus is emotional health not complex issues. It will be lead by a licensed clinician & will include an assisting high school senior. No fee this is a community offering.
(615) 805-6914 View (615) 805-6914
Insight offers quality and compassionate mental health counseling services in person and via telehealth. Telehealth allows you to speak to a therapist in your home through a video conferencing application. Our therapists are available to help with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, trauma, and relationship issues, among others, or to assist you in processing the rapidly unfolding current events.
Photo of Mart Sesler, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hosted by Mart Sesler
Pre-Licensed Professional
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37205
Insight offers quality and compassionate mental health counseling services in person and via telehealth. Telehealth allows you to speak to a therapist in your home through a video conferencing application. Our therapists are available to help with anxiety, depression, grief & loss, trauma, and relationship issues, among others, or to assist you in processing the rapidly unfolding current events.
(629) 249-6081 View (629) 249-6081
Book Club + Licensure Supervision! This group is for you if you are: 1) enjoying reading 2) seeking your own counselor identity 3) interested in theoretical approaches 4) already in individual supervision. Read a different book about a counseling approach each month. Meet and discuss that month's book selection, apply theory to practice with real client scenarios, treatment planning from the perspective of that particular approach. This group is in-person, engaging, interactive, with a lot of discussion! Contact Aimee Isenberg, PhD, LPC/MHSP/S at isenberglpc@gmail.com for information or to enroll! The fee is $80 for 2hr.
Photo of Katya Brewington - Therabiz, LLC Clinical & Licensure Supervision TN, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP/S, NCC, ACS
Hosted by Therabiz, LLC Clinical & Licensure Supervision TN
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP/S, NCC, ACS
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37204
Book Club + Licensure Supervision! This group is for you if you are: 1) enjoying reading 2) seeking your own counselor identity 3) interested in theoretical approaches 4) already in individual supervision. Read a different book about a counseling approach each month. Meet and discuss that month's book selection, apply theory to practice with real client scenarios, treatment planning from the perspective of that particular approach. This group is in-person, engaging, interactive, with a lot of discussion! Contact Aimee Isenberg, PhD, LPC/MHSP/S at isenberglpc@gmail.com for information or to enroll! The fee is $80 for 2hr.
(615) 270-5853 View (615) 270-5853
The transition into motherhood is one of the most profound identity shifts a person can experience. While the first year postpartum can bring many beautiful moments, it also often comes with overwhelm, identity loss, relationship tension, and emotional isolation. Motherhood & Me is a weekly virtual therapy group created to support postpartum women through the emotional and relational changes in the first year of motherhood. Through education, shared experience, and guided discussion - this group offers community, support, and practical tools to help you stay connected and supported. Your baby is welcome to attend virtually with you and sliding scales are available!
Photo of Nicole Shipp, Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Hosted by Nicole Shipp
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Group meets in Brentwood, TN 37027
The transition into motherhood is one of the most profound identity shifts a person can experience. While the first year postpartum can bring many beautiful moments, it also often comes with overwhelm, identity loss, relationship tension, and emotional isolation. Motherhood & Me is a weekly virtual therapy group created to support postpartum women through the emotional and relational changes in the first year of motherhood. Through education, shared experience, and guided discussion - this group offers community, support, and practical tools to help you stay connected and supported. Your baby is welcome to attend virtually with you and sliding scales are available!
(629) 229-1993 View (629) 229-1993
I am an Approved Supervisor for those pursuing LPC-MHSP status, either in person or through virtual supervision. I have 5+ years & 12 hours of Supervision training. I work hard to create a collaborative, experiential, and values-driven learning environment. We will discuss cases, challenges, and navigate the six core processes of ACT. We'll use experiential exercises, role-plays, and case conceptualization to enhance your skill & foster authenticity in your therapeutic work. We'll work with openness and curiosity, focusing on opportunities for learning and growth. I'd be honored to help you grow as a therapist.
Photo of Kevin Hull, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP
Hosted by Kevin Hull
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP
Group meets in Brentwood, TN 37027
I am an Approved Supervisor for those pursuing LPC-MHSP status, either in person or through virtual supervision. I have 5+ years & 12 hours of Supervision training. I work hard to create a collaborative, experiential, and values-driven learning environment. We will discuss cases, challenges, and navigate the six core processes of ACT. We'll use experiential exercises, role-plays, and case conceptualization to enhance your skill & foster authenticity in your therapeutic work. We'll work with openness and curiosity, focusing on opportunities for learning and growth. I'd be honored to help you grow as a therapist.
(629) 260-5742 View (629) 260-5742
This is a 12-week interpersonal process group for adults who want to better understand themselves and improve how they connect with others. Grounded in modern psychoanalytic principles, the group explores real-time emotions, relational dynamics, and communication patterns. You’ll learn to shift stuck patterns, express emotions, and deepen connections. This group is ideal if you struggle with closeness, feel unseen, keep the peace at your own expense, or want to build on individual therapy work. Weekly therapist-led sessions, an open, confidential space, real-time feedback, and opportunities to practice new ways of relating. No prior experience needed.
Photo of Claire Price - The Happy Hour, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hosted by The Happy Hour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Group meets in Nashville, TN 37204
This is a 12-week interpersonal process group for adults who want to better understand themselves and improve how they connect with others. Grounded in modern psychoanalytic principles, the group explores real-time emotions, relational dynamics, and communication patterns. You’ll learn to shift stuck patterns, express emotions, and deepen connections. This group is ideal if you struggle with closeness, feel unseen, keep the peace at your own expense, or want to build on individual therapy work. Weekly therapist-led sessions, an open, confidential space, real-time feedback, and opportunities to practice new ways of relating. No prior experience needed.
(629) 225-7431 View (629) 225-7431

See more therapy options for 37216

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in 37216?

To find a support group in your area, start by entering your city, zip 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 Behavioral 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-behavioral 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 $50 and $75 each. In comparison, individual therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 or more per session, even with insurance. Some therapists or organizations offer low-cost or free group therapy options, particularly through community centers or nonprofit 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?

As with individual therapy, insurance coverage for group therapy varies based on factors such as your specific insurance plan, the purpose of the group, your diagnosis, and whether the group provider is in-network. Many insurance plans cover group therapy sessions that address diagnosable mental health conditions, such as substance use disorders, anxiety, or depression.

However, groups that focus on topics not directly tied to a mental health diagnosis—such as parenting support or divorce recovery—are less likely to be covered. Because coverage can vary widely, it’s important to check with your insurance provider before joining a group to confirm whether the sessions will be covered and what out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for.

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 Behavioral 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 personalized and specialized 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.