Support Groups in 75056

We have room in our Saturday Teen DBT group! Ongoing registration, so please contact us at info@blankslatetherapy.com for next module start date. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based practice that has been found effective in helping individuals who struggle with managing emotions, stress, relationships and impulsivity. DBT is helpful for anyone looking to create change in their life, and is often used for those struggling with issues such as depression, trauma, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, or self-harm. The group is open to adolescents 13-17 years old. 18 year old HS Seniors are also welcome.
Photo of Lizz Garza, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Lizz Garza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Group meets in Lewisville, TX 75056
We have room in our Saturday Teen DBT group! Ongoing registration, so please contact us at info@blankslatetherapy.com for next module start date. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based practice that has been found effective in helping individuals who struggle with managing emotions, stress, relationships and impulsivity. DBT is helpful for anyone looking to create change in their life, and is often used for those struggling with issues such as depression, trauma, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, or self-harm. The group is open to adolescents 13-17 years old. 18 year old HS Seniors are also welcome.
(214) 239-1004 View (214) 239-1004
Accepting registrants for our Saturday Teen DBT group! DBT is an evidence-based cognitive behavioral treatment that is proven effective to alleviate emotional distress and suffering. The group is open to adolescents 13-17 years old interested in developing skills that will increase awareness of thoughts, urges and feelings. (18 year old HS Seniors are also welcome). With active engagement in the group, teens will develop increased ability to cope with intense emotion, decrease impulsive and self-destructive behaviors, and learn how to effectively communicate needs. Weekly fee is $50 per session. Please contact us with questions at info@blankslatetherapy.com.
Photo of Rebecca Houser - Blank Slate Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hosted by Blank Slate Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Group meets in Lewisville, TX 75056
Accepting registrants for our Saturday Teen DBT group! DBT is an evidence-based cognitive behavioral treatment that is proven effective to alleviate emotional distress and suffering. The group is open to adolescents 13-17 years old interested in developing skills that will increase awareness of thoughts, urges and feelings. (18 year old HS Seniors are also welcome). With active engagement in the group, teens will develop increased ability to cope with intense emotion, decrease impulsive and self-destructive behaviors, and learn how to effectively communicate needs. Weekly fee is $50 per session. Please contact us with questions at info@blankslatetherapy.com.
(469) 632-8213 View (469) 632-8213
Join us as we learn about mindfulness, distress tolerance, communication, emotional regulation, healthy relationships and more! Through DBT, individuals can learn to make sense of their feelings, manage them more effectively, and live fuller, richer lives. Our DBT skills group is aimed at helping teens (12-17) along with one or both parent/guardian enhance coping skills and improve communication. Accepting most major insurances for this group. Please contact us with questions.
Photo of Dj Cheatham, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSOTP, CAMS-II
Hosted by Dj Cheatham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSOTP, CAMS-II
Group meets in Lewisville, TX 75056
Join us as we learn about mindfulness, distress tolerance, communication, emotional regulation, healthy relationships and more! Through DBT, individuals can learn to make sense of their feelings, manage them more effectively, and live fuller, richer lives. Our DBT skills group is aimed at helping teens (12-17) along with one or both parent/guardian enhance coping skills and improve communication. Accepting most major insurances for this group. Please contact us with questions.
(469) 972-3460 View (469) 972-3460
We have room in our Saturday Teen DBT group! Ongoing registration, so please contact us at info@blankslatetherapy.com for next module start date. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based practice that has been found effective in helping individuals who struggle with managing emotions, stress, relationships and impulsivity. DBT is helpful for anyone looking to create change in their life, and is often used for those struggling with issues such as depression, trauma, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, or self-harm. The group is open to adolescents 13-17 years old. 18 year old HS Seniors are also welcome.
Photo of Rebecca Houser - Blank Slate Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hosted by Blank Slate Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor
Group meets in Lewisville, TX 75056
We have room in our Saturday Teen DBT group! Ongoing registration, so please contact us at info@blankslatetherapy.com for next module start date. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based practice that has been found effective in helping individuals who struggle with managing emotions, stress, relationships and impulsivity. DBT is helpful for anyone looking to create change in their life, and is often used for those struggling with issues such as depression, trauma, substance abuse, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, or self-harm. The group is open to adolescents 13-17 years old. 18 year old HS Seniors are also welcome.
(469) 771-1639 View (469) 771-1639
Accepting registrants for our Saturday Teen DBT group! DBT is an evidence-based cognitive behavioral treatment that is proven effective to alleviate emotional distress and suffering. The group is open to adolescents 13-17 years old interested in developing skills that will increase awareness of thoughts, urges and feelings. (18 year old HS Seniors are also welcome). With active engagement in the group, teens will develop increased ability to cope with intense emotion, decrease impulsive and self-destructive behaviors, and learn how to effectively communicate needs. Weekly fee is $50 per session. Please contact us with questions at info@blankslatetherapy.com.
Photo of Blank Slate Therapy - Blank Slate Therapy, Treatment Center
Hosted by Blank Slate Therapy
Treatment Center
Group meets in Lewisville, TX 75056
Accepting registrants for our Saturday Teen DBT group! DBT is an evidence-based cognitive behavioral treatment that is proven effective to alleviate emotional distress and suffering. The group is open to adolescents 13-17 years old interested in developing skills that will increase awareness of thoughts, urges and feelings. (18 year old HS Seniors are also welcome). With active engagement in the group, teens will develop increased ability to cope with intense emotion, decrease impulsive and self-destructive behaviors, and learn how to effectively communicate needs. Weekly fee is $50 per session. Please contact us with questions at info@blankslatetherapy.com.
(972) 853-4981 View (972) 853-4981
NEW GROUP FORMING JANUARY 4, 2025! Our social skills group for teens uses board games as a fun and interactive way to teach essential life skills. Participants engage in various games that promote teamwork, problem-solving, and communication, helping them learn how to build and maintain healthy relationships. The group focuses on areas such a setting boundaries, practicing healthy communication, and boosting self-confidence. Through structured activities and discussions, teens gain practical strategies to navigate social situations, enhance interpersonal skills and foster a supportive community among peers. Aetna and Cigna insurance can be accepted for this group. Private pay fee is $40/week.
Photo of Lizz Garza, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Lizz Garza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Group meets in Lewisville, TX 75056
NEW GROUP FORMING JANUARY 4, 2025! Our social skills group for teens uses board games as a fun and interactive way to teach essential life skills. Participants engage in various games that promote teamwork, problem-solving, and communication, helping them learn how to build and maintain healthy relationships. The group focuses on areas such a setting boundaries, practicing healthy communication, and boosting self-confidence. Through structured activities and discussions, teens gain practical strategies to navigate social situations, enhance interpersonal skills and foster a supportive community among peers. Aetna and Cigna insurance can be accepted for this group. Private pay fee is $40/week.
(214) 239-1004 View (214) 239-1004
Accepting registrants for our Saturday Teen and Parent DBT group! DBT is an evidence-based cognitive behavioral treatment that is proven effective to alleviate emotional distress and suffering. The group is open to adolescents 13-17 years old interested in developing skills that will increase awareness of thoughts, urges and feelings. (18 year old HS Seniors are also welcome). With active engagement in the group, teens will develop increased ability to cope with intense emotion, decrease impulsive and self-destructive behaviors, and learn how to effectively communicate needs. $50 per session, also accepting most major insurances. Please contact us with questions at info@blankslatetherapy.com.
Photo of Blank Slate Therapy - Blank Slate Therapy, Treatment Center
Hosted by Blank Slate Therapy
Treatment Center
Group meets in Lewisville, TX 75056
Accepting registrants for our Saturday Teen and Parent DBT group! DBT is an evidence-based cognitive behavioral treatment that is proven effective to alleviate emotional distress and suffering. The group is open to adolescents 13-17 years old interested in developing skills that will increase awareness of thoughts, urges and feelings. (18 year old HS Seniors are also welcome). With active engagement in the group, teens will develop increased ability to cope with intense emotion, decrease impulsive and self-destructive behaviors, and learn how to effectively communicate needs. $50 per session, also accepting most major insurances. Please contact us with questions at info@blankslatetherapy.com.
(469) 251-5387 View (469) 251-5387
Virtual Group Supervision for LMSW seeking LCSW licensure. Group is conducted virtually. During our supervision sessions, I will help you to focus on the following areas of clinical work: process, personalization, conceptualization, and administration. We will incorporate case note review, role play, simulation, and other modalities for our sessions.
Photo of Kara Talton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Hosted by Kara Talton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Group meets in The Colony, TX 75056
Virtual Group Supervision for LMSW seeking LCSW licensure. Group is conducted virtually. During our supervision sessions, I will help you to focus on the following areas of clinical work: process, personalization, conceptualization, and administration. We will incorporate case note review, role play, simulation, and other modalities for our sessions.
(469) 727-6550 View (469) 727-6550

More Groups Nearby

We provide " strictly " group classes to those who wish to learn more about anger and emotions and how to change behavior. Strictly group! We have more than 26 years of success with Anger Management and Lifeskills Training Classes. Great for relationships and marriages. Suitable for employees and employer mandated classes. Also classes provided for court orders and domestic violence . Educational and beneficial. Classes highly effective with measurable difference since 2004. Anger Management ,Proactive and Court Ordered Classes. Domestic Violence and BIPP Classes. Education for men struggling with Challenges, Employer Ordered Classes. Effective and Constructive. Flex Schedules.
Photo of Carl Robinson - Dr. Carl Robinson, PhD, CPC, CAMT, CAMS, CFLC
Hosted by Dr. Carl Robinson
Verified Verified
Group meets in Dallas, TX 75201
We provide " strictly " group classes to those who wish to learn more about anger and emotions and how to change behavior. Strictly group! We have more than 26 years of success with Anger Management and Lifeskills Training Classes. Great for relationships and marriages. Suitable for employees and employer mandated classes. Also classes provided for court orders and domestic violence . Educational and beneficial. Classes highly effective with measurable difference since 2004. Anger Management ,Proactive and Court Ordered Classes. Domestic Violence and BIPP Classes. Education for men struggling with Challenges, Employer Ordered Classes. Effective and Constructive. Flex Schedules.
(214) 301-3002 View (214) 301-3002
This lunch hour group is about seeking to thrive inside oneself and with close others. This is a confidential place for learning by experience including how to be vulnerable, give/receive honest, emotional feedback become aware of your blind spots. In this group people of color/immigrants are welcome. Regularly in this group we discuss topics—including hard ones—with emotional honesty & even joy sometimes.
Photo of Dr. Jason S Berman, Psychologist, PhD, CGP
Hosted by Dr. Jason S Berman
Psychologist, PhD, CGP
Group meets in Richardson, TX 75080
This lunch hour group is about seeking to thrive inside oneself and with close others. This is a confidential place for learning by experience including how to be vulnerable, give/receive honest, emotional feedback become aware of your blind spots. In this group people of color/immigrants are welcome. Regularly in this group we discuss topics—including hard ones—with emotional honesty & even joy sometimes.
(972) 885-6571 View (972) 885-6571
The way we communicate with others can improve our lives significantly. We have been teaching NVC for many years. By being present, learning to suspend judgment, learning to identify your own thoughts and needs, we are better able to actually connect with others without defensiveness and unhealthy explosive anger. Clients often ask how come they've never been taught this before? We've helped hundreds of clients improve both their own lives and relationships at home, school, work and in their communities.
Photo of Rachel Meltzer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Hosted by Rachel Meltzer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Group meets in Richardson, TX 75081
The way we communicate with others can improve our lives significantly. We have been teaching NVC for many years. By being present, learning to suspend judgment, learning to identify your own thoughts and needs, we are better able to actually connect with others without defensiveness and unhealthy explosive anger. Clients often ask how come they've never been taught this before? We've helped hundreds of clients improve both their own lives and relationships at home, school, work and in their communities.
(972) 362-9959 View (972) 362-9959
This group isn’t about diving into the hardest parts of your story. It's about building enough safety and stability that daily life, relationships, and even therapy itself feel more possible. For 8 weeks, we will meet to slow things down, explore triggers without judgment, and practice tools to come back to yourself when your trauma takes over. Together we will work toward safety, steadiness, and self trust. Fall 2025 groups start the week of October 13. **Date/time TBD based on participants availability. Online and in person (Allen, TX). $50 per group.
Photo of Lauren Marshall, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Hosted by Lauren Marshall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Group meets in Allen, TX 75013
This group isn’t about diving into the hardest parts of your story. It's about building enough safety and stability that daily life, relationships, and even therapy itself feel more possible. For 8 weeks, we will meet to slow things down, explore triggers without judgment, and practice tools to come back to yourself when your trauma takes over. Together we will work toward safety, steadiness, and self trust. Fall 2025 groups start the week of October 13. **Date/time TBD based on participants availability. Online and in person (Allen, TX). $50 per group.
(972) 848-6673 View (972) 848-6673
We offer a unique, specialized, and comprehensive approach for individuals, couples, and families facing the complexities of life.
Photo of Dr. Jenna Mountain, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST, EMDR, ART
Hosted by Dr. Jenna Mountain
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CST, EMDR, ART
Group meets in Richardson, TX 75080
We offer a unique, specialized, and comprehensive approach for individuals, couples, and families facing the complexities of life.
(972) 843-7460 View (972) 843-7460
At MindLift Alliance, we understand how overwhelming anxiety and constant worry can feel. That’s why we’ve created our Anxiety & Worry Management Group Therapy program — a supportive, structured space where you can learn coping skills, connect with others who understand, and take control of your mental health. This group is designed for: Adults experiencing generalized anxiety or chronic worry Individuals dealing with stress and burnout People looking for community support in managing anxiety Clients who want practical tools and strategies for emotional balance
Photo of Ally Wang, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Hosted by Ally Wang
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Group meets in McKinney, TX 75070
At MindLift Alliance, we understand how overwhelming anxiety and constant worry can feel. That’s why we’ve created our Anxiety & Worry Management Group Therapy program — a supportive, structured space where you can learn coping skills, connect with others who understand, and take control of your mental health. This group is designed for: Adults experiencing generalized anxiety or chronic worry Individuals dealing with stress and burnout People looking for community support in managing anxiety Clients who want practical tools and strategies for emotional balance
(972) 855-8183 View (972) 855-8183
This group will focus on processing stress, anxiety, mood issues and other challenges for adults. You will be able to process thoughts, feelings and experiences with others, and gain an understanding of how-to manage ongoing struggles. Interested? Schedule a screening call with one of our therapists, or send an email to info@insightandchangedfw.com. The conversation will be about 15 minutes and you’ll discuss the group, your hopes, and possible outcomes. If group is for you, we will send over a link, and you’ll be all set.
Photo of Dr. Robert Kinney, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Hosted by Dr. Robert Kinney
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Group meets in Dallas, TX 75205
This group will focus on processing stress, anxiety, mood issues and other challenges for adults. You will be able to process thoughts, feelings and experiences with others, and gain an understanding of how-to manage ongoing struggles. Interested? Schedule a screening call with one of our therapists, or send an email to info@insightandchangedfw.com. The conversation will be about 15 minutes and you’ll discuss the group, your hopes, and possible outcomes. If group is for you, we will send over a link, and you’ll be all set.
(469) 900-7310 x1 View (469) 900-7310 x1
Elko Counseling Center focuses on providing comprehensive therapy services to those struggling with a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Our goal is to help you establish a solid foundation of coping skills so you can effectively and healthily walk through life. Elko Counseling Center is a down-to-earth, yet professional, counseling practice where clients can meet personal goals in a safe place. Feel Free to visit our website, www.elkocounseling.com
Photo of Leigh Barnett, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Hosted by Leigh Barnett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Group meets in Dallas, TX 75243
Elko Counseling Center focuses on providing comprehensive therapy services to those struggling with a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Our goal is to help you establish a solid foundation of coping skills so you can effectively and healthily walk through life. Elko Counseling Center is a down-to-earth, yet professional, counseling practice where clients can meet personal goals in a safe place. Feel Free to visit our website, www.elkocounseling.com
(972) 388-3648 View (972) 388-3648
This program is designed to equip you with valuable insights and practical tools to effectively manage and alleviate anxiety. It's a significant step towards a brighter, anxiety-free future. During the course of this group, you'll explore: The nature of anxiety and why it occurs and receive hands-on techniques for managing and reducing anxiety.
Photo of Makea Sanders, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPC- S
Hosted by Makea Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMHC, LPC- S
Group meets in Arlington, TX 76013
This program is designed to equip you with valuable insights and practical tools to effectively manage and alleviate anxiety. It's a significant step towards a brighter, anxiety-free future. During the course of this group, you'll explore: The nature of anxiety and why it occurs and receive hands-on techniques for managing and reducing anxiety.
(817) 993-4196 View (817) 993-4196
DBT SKILLS GROUPS are available to Adults, Adolescents, Caregivers/Family. Groups teach the following Skills: Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Dialectics, Middle Path, and Validation.
Photo of Linda Spang O'Toole, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, DBT-LBC
Hosted by Linda Spang O'Toole
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, DBT-LBC
Group meets in Dallas, TX 75231
DBT SKILLS GROUPS are available to Adults, Adolescents, Caregivers/Family. Groups teach the following Skills: Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Distress Tolerance, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Dialectics, Middle Path, and Validation.
(972) 918-0170 x4 View (972) 918-0170 x4
Unthinkable Blessings is a counseling support group for moms of kids with Special Needs. We meet weekly on Tuesdays from 12-1pm. The group exists to educate, create comfort and support, and facilitate growth for moms who spend their days caring for a child with special needs. The group runs for 8 weeks March 26-May 14.
Photo of Brittany Steigner, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Hosted by Brittany Steigner
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Group meets in Rockwall, TX 75087
Unthinkable Blessings is a counseling support group for moms of kids with Special Needs. We meet weekly on Tuesdays from 12-1pm. The group exists to educate, create comfort and support, and facilitate growth for moms who spend their days caring for a child with special needs. The group runs for 8 weeks March 26-May 14.
(469) 747-0923 View (469) 747-0923
Sobriety Out Loud!™ (SOL) is a place where you can find your voice, own your sobriety, and connect with others on the same path. Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or somewhere in between, SOL offers support, laughter, and real talk—because sobriety isn’t just about giving something up, it’s about gaining clarity, confidence, and community. With heart, humor, and connection, we navigate this journey together—out loud and unapologetically.
Photo of Shelley Long, Psychologist, PhD, LPC-S
Hosted by Shelley Long
Psychologist, PhD, LPC-S
Group meets in Southlake, TX 76092
Sobriety Out Loud!™ (SOL) is a place where you can find your voice, own your sobriety, and connect with others on the same path. Whether you’re sober, sober-curious, or somewhere in between, SOL offers support, laughter, and real talk—because sobriety isn’t just about giving something up, it’s about gaining clarity, confidence, and community. With heart, humor, and connection, we navigate this journey together—out loud and unapologetically.
(817) 773-5499 View (817) 773-5499

See more therapy options for 75056

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in 75056?

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.