Support Groups in 98126

Supervision for LMHCA's and others. Consultation for professionals. Format includes online and/or in-person.
Photo of Laura Stone, Counselor, LMHC WA, LPC OR, LPC CO
Hosted by Laura Stone
Counselor, LMHC WA, LPC OR, LPC CO
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
Supervision for LMHCA's and others. Consultation for professionals. Format includes online and/or in-person.
(206) 498-9895 View (206) 498-9895
New telehealth Present-Centered Group Therapy (PCGT) for PTSD. PCGT is an evidenced based, twelve session group effective in reducing and managing symptoms. PCGT educates group members on symptoms of PTSD and related reactions. The core focus of treatment empowers members to discuss how trauma impacts their lives, and promote mutual support and troubleshooting ways to address trauma. PCGT particularly encourages discussion of how trauma impacts relationships, both within and outside of the group. Please contact me should you have further questions at 206-395-6882, or email at danielgross@jetcitypsych.com.
Photo of Daniel Lee Gross - Daniel Gross, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PLLC
Hosted by Daniel Gross, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PLLC
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
New telehealth Present-Centered Group Therapy (PCGT) for PTSD. PCGT is an evidenced based, twelve session group effective in reducing and managing symptoms. PCGT educates group members on symptoms of PTSD and related reactions. The core focus of treatment empowers members to discuss how trauma impacts their lives, and promote mutual support and troubleshooting ways to address trauma. PCGT particularly encourages discussion of how trauma impacts relationships, both within and outside of the group. Please contact me should you have further questions at 206-395-6882, or email at danielgross@jetcitypsych.com.
(206) 347-8089 View (206) 347-8089
Jet City Psychological Services offers evidence-based, culturally responsive individual therapy for adults across Washington state via telehealth. We empower individuals to live meaningful and fulfilling lives through the use of evidence-based treatments and skills. We work with each person to create a treatment plan that is informed by their personal goals and values. Therapy is an active component in one’s journey to wellness, and the progress seen is tightly connected to the effort a person puts forth. Thus, we expect each individual to commit to the therapy process, including attending sessions and practicing skills between sessions.
Photo of Dr. Kristen Strack, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Dr. Kristen Strack
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
Jet City Psychological Services offers evidence-based, culturally responsive individual therapy for adults across Washington state via telehealth. We empower individuals to live meaningful and fulfilling lives through the use of evidence-based treatments and skills. We work with each person to create a treatment plan that is informed by their personal goals and values. Therapy is an active component in one’s journey to wellness, and the progress seen is tightly connected to the effort a person puts forth. Thus, we expect each individual to commit to the therapy process, including attending sessions and practicing skills between sessions.
(206) 210-1385 View (206) 210-1385
Based on the work of Irvin Yalom and drawing from a wide array of modalities in therapy to include somatic and mindful based practices. Learning to support and connect with other participants to find strength emotionally and psychologically. We work through our anxiety and depression by speaking to our truth. This therapy helps us find a way in how we can connect. In so doing we find purpose in meaning to discover a higher and more satisfying purpose.
Photo of Thomas J Auflick, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Hosted by Thomas J Auflick
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
Based on the work of Irvin Yalom and drawing from a wide array of modalities in therapy to include somatic and mindful based practices. Learning to support and connect with other participants to find strength emotionally and psychologically. We work through our anxiety and depression by speaking to our truth. This therapy helps us find a way in how we can connect. In so doing we find purpose in meaning to discover a higher and more satisfying purpose.
(206) 569-6951 View (206) 569-6951
Jet City Psychological Services offers evidence-based, culturally responsive individual therapy for adults across Washington state (in-person and telehealth). We empower individuals to live meaningful and fulfilling lives through the use of evidence-based treatments and skills. We work with each person to create a treatment plan that is informed by their personal goals and values. Therapy is an active component in one’s journey to wellness, and the progress seen is tightly connected to the effort a person puts forth. Thus, we expect each individual to commit to the therapy process, including attending sessions and practicing skills between sessions.
Photo of Janelle Painter, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Janelle Painter
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
Jet City Psychological Services offers evidence-based, culturally responsive individual therapy for adults across Washington state (in-person and telehealth). We empower individuals to live meaningful and fulfilling lives through the use of evidence-based treatments and skills. We work with each person to create a treatment plan that is informed by their personal goals and values. Therapy is an active component in one’s journey to wellness, and the progress seen is tightly connected to the effort a person puts forth. Thus, we expect each individual to commit to the therapy process, including attending sessions and practicing skills between sessions.
(206) 207-4980 View (206) 207-4980
This in-person small group is for women who face challenges with intimacy, relationship conflict, self-doubt, anxiety, and depression. Through group discussions, compassionate experiments, and introspection, we will enhance connection to our personal power while reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. We use body-centered mindfulness-based therapy to: Cultivate self-compassion and self-respect - Enhance our capacity for loving connections - Practice kind curiosity towards ourselves - Promote acceptance and empower ourselves to make choices in our lives. The group meets 4 times for 1.5 hours on Saturdays.$500 registration at www.kellylross.com, or email kelly@kellylross.com, or call 206.723.3402
Photo of Kelly L Ross, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Hosted by Kelly L Ross
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
This in-person small group is for women who face challenges with intimacy, relationship conflict, self-doubt, anxiety, and depression. Through group discussions, compassionate experiments, and introspection, we will enhance connection to our personal power while reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. We use body-centered mindfulness-based therapy to: Cultivate self-compassion and self-respect - Enhance our capacity for loving connections - Practice kind curiosity towards ourselves - Promote acceptance and empower ourselves to make choices in our lives. The group meets 4 times for 1.5 hours on Saturdays.$500 registration at www.kellylross.com, or email kelly@kellylross.com, or call 206.723.3402
(425) 382-8222 View (425) 382-8222
Exploration, accountability, and connection I have a deep passion for menswork, and am an active long-time participant in ManKind Project meetings and weekends. I lead mens' groups as part of my practice, as a way for men to connect and explore their deeper selves and hold themselves accountable in a culture that encourages them to disconnect from their emotions, devalue authentic friendships, objectify and degrade women, and resolve conflicts through violence. Groups are held weekly. A three month commitment is required to join, so we can build connection and trust within the cohort.
Photo of Woody Pollock, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Hosted by Woody Pollock
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
Exploration, accountability, and connection I have a deep passion for menswork, and am an active long-time participant in ManKind Project meetings and weekends. I lead mens' groups as part of my practice, as a way for men to connect and explore their deeper selves and hold themselves accountable in a culture that encourages them to disconnect from their emotions, devalue authentic friendships, objectify and degrade women, and resolve conflicts through violence. Groups are held weekly. A three month commitment is required to join, so we can build connection and trust within the cohort.
(425) 689-7471 View (425) 689-7471
adjective: Working or acting together for a common purpose or benefit. We're a like-minded group of counselors/therapists providing a diverse source of help under one roof. We believe in the power of the therapeutic alliance created between client and counselor, and created this supportive, compassionate cooperative to give our clients every possible opportunity to succeed. As therapists, by continually supporting each other and sharing our new learnings and findings, no matter how good we are at what we do, every day is an opportunity to improve.
Photo of LaVonne K Dorsey, Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCM, CBC
Hosted by LaVonne K Dorsey
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCM, CBC
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
adjective: Working or acting together for a common purpose or benefit. We're a like-minded group of counselors/therapists providing a diverse source of help under one roof. We believe in the power of the therapeutic alliance created between client and counselor, and created this supportive, compassionate cooperative to give our clients every possible opportunity to succeed. As therapists, by continually supporting each other and sharing our new learnings and findings, no matter how good we are at what we do, every day is an opportunity to improve.
(206) 735-4961 View (206) 735-4961
Are you a new mother who is juggling life with young kids? Are just now coming up for air after the complex newborn months? Are you yearning to get reoriented to the woman you are now? Do you want to connect with other mothers who understand firsthand? Join us for a restorative and contemplative mini retreat honoring Matresence and the transformative power of stepping into motherhood. We will spend time in ritual and community that will include meditation, gentle movement, journaling and creative expression, sharing time, and restorative yoga. Thresholds-pllc.com for future offerings.
Photo of Michelle Jones, Counselor, MA, LMHC, PMH-C
Hosted by Michelle Jones
Counselor, MA, LMHC, PMH-C
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
Are you a new mother who is juggling life with young kids? Are just now coming up for air after the complex newborn months? Are you yearning to get reoriented to the woman you are now? Do you want to connect with other mothers who understand firsthand? Join us for a restorative and contemplative mini retreat honoring Matresence and the transformative power of stepping into motherhood. We will spend time in ritual and community that will include meditation, gentle movement, journaling and creative expression, sharing time, and restorative yoga. Thresholds-pllc.com for future offerings.
View
Our providers are trained to treat a broad spectrum of presenting concerns – we have training in structured and time-limited evidence-based therapy for specific disorders, and we are also able to provide more open-ended exploratory work for those navigating challenging life transitions or stressors. When you meet with us, our first step is fully understanding your goals for therapy and developing a treatment plan that is tailored to you. In our practice, we welcome individuals with diverse constellations of intersecting identities. We work to provide culturally-tailored and affirming care that centers your values and lived experiences.
Photo of Christine Paprocki, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Christine Paprocki
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
Our providers are trained to treat a broad spectrum of presenting concerns – we have training in structured and time-limited evidence-based therapy for specific disorders, and we are also able to provide more open-ended exploratory work for those navigating challenging life transitions or stressors. When you meet with us, our first step is fully understanding your goals for therapy and developing a treatment plan that is tailored to you. In our practice, we welcome individuals with diverse constellations of intersecting identities. We work to provide culturally-tailored and affirming care that centers your values and lived experiences.
View
Join us the First and 3rd Friday of the month 12:00-1:15pm to connect together in our grief journeys.
Photo of Liziah Richards, Counselor, LMHC, RYT
Hosted by Liziah Richards
Counselor, LMHC, RYT
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
Join us the First and 3rd Friday of the month 12:00-1:15pm to connect together in our grief journeys.
(206) 557-6052 View (206) 557-6052
Integration group for adults who've done or are doing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and want to process with others about their experiences in a small group setting, 6-8 members. Groups meet over Zoom, with an in-person option coming soon. Meetings take place once every 2 weeks, Thursdays from 3:30pm-5pm. Groups meet for 6 sessions, with option to renew. Come talk with others about your insights, struggles and observations with Ketamine, get support and reflection from peers. If you are interested in starting Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, please see my main profile. Cost per group session is $80
Photo of Laura Stone, Counselor, LMHC WA, LPC OR, LPC CO
Hosted by Laura Stone
Counselor, LMHC WA, LPC OR, LPC CO
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
Integration group for adults who've done or are doing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and want to process with others about their experiences in a small group setting, 6-8 members. Groups meet over Zoom, with an in-person option coming soon. Meetings take place once every 2 weeks, Thursdays from 3:30pm-5pm. Groups meet for 6 sessions, with option to renew. Come talk with others about your insights, struggles and observations with Ketamine, get support and reflection from peers. If you are interested in starting Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, please see my main profile. Cost per group session is $80
(206) 498-9895 View (206) 498-9895
Small group for adoptive Mamas experiencing post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression associated with parenting kids with complex trauma histories. Over 8 weeks, we will engage in psychoeducation, trauma-informed practices, and group integration. Program includes two group ketamine journeys, facilitated by licensed clinicians. Topics include nervous system regulation, self-recovery and self-compassion. This is a unique opportunity to connect with others with shared experience, explore personal healing, and strengthen capacity to parent with presence, insight, and expanded awareness. Telehealth & In-person combo. Medical screening required (separate cost), with our local prescriber. Start date 9/24/25. Email for info.
Photo of Laura Stone, Counselor, LMHC WA, LPC OR, LPC CO
Hosted by Laura Stone
Counselor, LMHC WA, LPC OR, LPC CO
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98126
Small group for adoptive Mamas experiencing post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression associated with parenting kids with complex trauma histories. Over 8 weeks, we will engage in psychoeducation, trauma-informed practices, and group integration. Program includes two group ketamine journeys, facilitated by licensed clinicians. Topics include nervous system regulation, self-recovery and self-compassion. This is a unique opportunity to connect with others with shared experience, explore personal healing, and strengthen capacity to parent with presence, insight, and expanded awareness. Telehealth & In-person combo. Medical screening required (separate cost), with our local prescriber. Start date 9/24/25. Email for info.
(206) 498-9895 View (206) 498-9895

More Groups Nearby

We write and share our life stories, looking at them through both literary and therapeutic eyes. We look at the plot, characters, scenes, dialogue, and themes of our lives. Occasionally we will also explore through visual art, drama, music or movement.
Photo of Karen Fallen-Rhodes: Books Of Flesh And Bone, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Hosted by Karen Fallen-Rhodes: Books Of Flesh And Bone
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98122
We write and share our life stories, looking at them through both literary and therapeutic eyes. We look at the plot, characters, scenes, dialogue, and themes of our lives. Occasionally we will also explore through visual art, drama, music or movement.
(206) 309-1207 View (206) 309-1207
Sometimes we are so worried about getting to our destination, that we may forget to look at the world around us. Taking the scenic route doesn't just mean slowing down— it also means finding adventure along the way, enjoying the journey, and learning to navigate the potholes that may come. In this group, we use art and nature to explore topics of transition, mindfulness, and identity as we navigate our local parks with peers. We have COHORT & DROP-IN group options! Check creativewellbeings.com/events for more details.
Photo of Jenn Parretta, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST, ATR-P, ABS
Hosted by Jenn Parretta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST, ATR-P, ABS
Group meets in Tacoma, WA 98402
Sometimes we are so worried about getting to our destination, that we may forget to look at the world around us. Taking the scenic route doesn't just mean slowing down— it also means finding adventure along the way, enjoying the journey, and learning to navigate the potholes that may come. In this group, we use art and nature to explore topics of transition, mindfulness, and identity as we navigate our local parks with peers. We have COHORT & DROP-IN group options! Check creativewellbeings.com/events for more details.
View
Rapid resolution therapy (RRT) is a form of psychotherapy designed to help individuals overcome the ongoing effects associated with traumatic experiences. RRT uses guided imagery, hypnosis, stories and other types of communication to resolve troubling thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Often in a signal RRT Session you can clear the root cause of your anxiety and become fearless! Book Your remote Rapid Resolution Therapy session with Kelly on her website: www.DoylestownHypnosis.com. My clients love the Zoom Session, you will get the same great results without leaving the comfort of your own home.
Photo of Kelly Granite Enck, CHT, BA, RRT
Hosted by Kelly Granite Enck
Verified Verified
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98125
Rapid resolution therapy (RRT) is a form of psychotherapy designed to help individuals overcome the ongoing effects associated with traumatic experiences. RRT uses guided imagery, hypnosis, stories and other types of communication to resolve troubling thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Often in a signal RRT Session you can clear the root cause of your anxiety and become fearless! Book Your remote Rapid Resolution Therapy session with Kelly on her website: www.DoylestownHypnosis.com. My clients love the Zoom Session, you will get the same great results without leaving the comfort of your own home.
(206) 507-3203 View (206) 507-3203
Now Enrolling: Teen DBT Group at Equilibrium in West Seattle. Find effective support for your teen's emotional well-being. This Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) group is for teens ages 12-16 and helps adolescents develop skills in emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness—all in a supportive, therapeutic group setting led by licensed counselors. Perfect for teens struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, ADHD, and/or intense emotions. ? Space is limited? Located in West Seattle | ? Call (253) 448-7233 or email leslie@equilibriumtherapygroup.com for more info.
Photo of Leslie Taylor, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Hosted by Leslie Taylor
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Group meets in Seattle, WA 98116
Now Enrolling: Teen DBT Group at Equilibrium in West Seattle. Find effective support for your teen's emotional well-being. This Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) group is for teens ages 12-16 and helps adolescents develop skills in emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness—all in a supportive, therapeutic group setting led by licensed counselors. Perfect for teens struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, ADHD, and/or intense emotions. ? Space is limited? Located in West Seattle | ? Call (253) 448-7233 or email leslie@equilibriumtherapygroup.com for more info.
(206) 208-2652 View (206) 208-2652
Come energize and clear your 7 major Chakra centers through meditative, expressive movement. Come release the mind and put your body in charge through transcendent music and free movement corresponding with each of the 7 Chakras. Experience your energy blocks and release them through full expression, and blissful meditative movement. Enjoy a safe, comfortable space to move. Brief lectures, exploration, and sharing deepens and grounds the experience. Homework assignments are offered to support long term effects of this energetic awareness and healing. Come join the fun and open yourself to greater expression of who you are at the core, cellular level!
Photo of Teresa R Renner, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Teresa R Renner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Come energize and clear your 7 major Chakra centers through meditative, expressive movement. Come release the mind and put your body in charge through transcendent music and free movement corresponding with each of the 7 Chakras. Experience your energy blocks and release them through full expression, and blissful meditative movement. Enjoy a safe, comfortable space to move. Brief lectures, exploration, and sharing deepens and grounds the experience. Homework assignments are offered to support long term effects of this energetic awareness and healing. Come join the fun and open yourself to greater expression of who you are at the core, cellular level!
(253) 321-1853 View (253) 321-1853
Do you struggle with the holidays? Does darkness or the weather get you down? If so, please consider joining my group to focus on destressing, managing depressive symptoms, increasing coping skills while navigating the dreadful holiday/winter season. We will focus on decreasing barriers to Season Affect Disorder (SAD), focus on increasing wellness through CBT and talk therapy. if interested, please contact me 360-519-7319.
Photo of Erin Daniels - Emerald Behavioral Health, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LSWAIC
Hosted by Emerald Behavioral Health, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MA, LSWAIC
Group meets in Bremerton, WA 98312
Do you struggle with the holidays? Does darkness or the weather get you down? If so, please consider joining my group to focus on destressing, managing depressive symptoms, increasing coping skills while navigating the dreadful holiday/winter season. We will focus on decreasing barriers to Season Affect Disorder (SAD), focus on increasing wellness through CBT and talk therapy. if interested, please contact me 360-519-7319.
(360) 515-3234 View (360) 515-3234
DVIT: Domestic Violence Intervention Treatment & DV Parenting class Males: Fridays at 4:30pm-6pm. DVIT Females: Saturdays at 8am - 9:30am DV Parenting: Thursdays at 12pm - 1:30pm
Photo of Genise Rachelle Bagby, Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP, DVIT
Hosted by Genise Rachelle Bagby
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP, DVIT
Group meets in Renton, WA 98057
DVIT: Domestic Violence Intervention Treatment & DV Parenting class Males: Fridays at 4:30pm-6pm. DVIT Females: Saturdays at 8am - 9:30am DV Parenting: Thursdays at 12pm - 1:30pm
(206) 679-8291 View (206) 679-8291

See more therapy options for 98126

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in 98126?

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.