Support Groups in Chandler, AZ

Preschool support group is for 3yr old's to 5 year old's and families come together to explore , play, and learn. As the therapist I will facilitate conversations on child development and ways to support children's growth and learning while building the parent child relationships. The therapist will engaged children in developmentally appropriate actives to support the specific needs and growth of all children from 3yrs old to 5 yrs old to emotionally prepare them for the future with the guidance of parent(s). Individual parenting and children's play therapy is also available. Groups are closed groups
Photo of Michele Lentte Davis - Sonoran Health , Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW , MSW, LGSW
Hosted by Sonoran Health
Pre-Licensed Professional, BSW , MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85286
I am licensed Clinical Social Worker with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started !Additional areas of focus: Adoption and foster care, Aging and geriatric issues, Attachment issues, Autism and Asperger
(651) 362-1625 View (651) 362-1625
Available at all locations!Times/dates vary depending on need and location. GRASP is our all inclusive adolescent intensive outpatient program. This programs include groups such as; DBT, Trauma, Substance Abuse, and Creative/Expressive Arts. These programs entail 3 days of group therapy and also individual counseling. Our goal for your adolescent is to have a program that encompasses all their needs to be the best they can be. This program accepts most major insurance and is eligible for our sliding fee scale. To get started or if you have any questions please contact our office today!
Photo of Jessica Elias, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hosted by Jessica Elias
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85224
Recognizing feelings of anxiety or depression? Maybe you are even seeing these symptoms as a result of a previous trauma or current unhealthy situation. I help individuals, couples, and families to gain better balance, manage stress, and improve their mental well-being. I work with children, adolescents, and adults.
(480) 506-0901 View (480) 506-0901
Photo of Heather Stromley Brosseau, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Heather Stromley Brosseau
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85248
(480) 470-9335 View (480) 470-9335
All 3 locations (Chandler, Scottsdale, Glendale). Times/dates vary depending on need and location. GRASP is our all inclusive adolescent intensive outpatient program. This programs include groups such as; DBT, Trauma, Substance Abuse, and Creative/Expressive Arts. These programs entails 3 days of group therapy and also individual counseling. Our goal for your adolescent is to have a program that encompasses all their needs to be the best they can be.This program accepts most major insurance and is eligible for our sliding fee scale. To get started or if you have any questions please contact our office today!
Photo of Patti Gillespie, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LIAC
Hosted by Patti Gillespie
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LIAC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85224
**Now accepting new clients** If you are struggling with an addiction, you have found the right person to help you. My experience spans multiple areas of substance addictions and process addictions (e.g. substances, pornography, sex, gambling, eating disorders, co-dependency). You will be welcomed in a non-judgmental, unbiased, caring, and empathetic fashion. I am a multi-cultural counselor, LGBT friendly and can speak Spanish. I have worked with young adults through older adults. We offer many groups: Substance Abuse and Addiction; DBT, Anger Mgmt, Divorce, and many others. Please call if you are ready to make a change.
(480) 526-4728 View (480) 526-4728
Our clinical team at the Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic partnered with Arizona’s Children Association to offer clinical trainings for Arizona Clinicians. Please visit our website below for both online and in-person trainings in Ethics, Cultural Competency, and Clinical Supervision. Please contact us at info@azmftclinic.com with any questions. Thanks! clinicaltrainings.teachable.com
Photo of Jill K. Cruz, Marriage & Family Therapist, BSN, MAS-MFT, LMFT
Hosted by Jill K. Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, BSN, MAS-MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85226
Losing hope things can change? I have been working with individuals, families, and couples for over a decade on how to overcome some of the most difficult and perplexing relational issues. My approach is direct and simple, to identify specific patterns, limiting beliefs or behaviors that lead to ineffective outcomes. I work collaboratively with my clients, using unique and innovative methods to gain understanding on root causes, and develop strength- based solutions to create a path for authentic and lasting change. I am also a pioneer in both the creation and facilitation of intensive therapeutic services here at our clinic.
(480) 405-1981 View (480) 405-1981
Cactus Wren Family Therapy specializes in therpay for the whole family. We see children 11+, families, parents, couples, and individuals. Our therapists are trauma informed, highly skilled and well trained professionals who believe that therapy should be effective and the lives of our clients can and should improve with therapy. Our therapists are trained in CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, Gottman, SFBT and Sex Therapy.
Photo of Stephanie Butler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Hosted by Stephanie Butler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85225
Relationships never start off difficult. Disappointment, pain, betrayal, distance, emotional shut-off are all among the myriad reasons they become difficult. Often times the distance between two people can feel insurmountable. A trained and effective therapist is able to bridge that gap and provide guidance and support on the journey back to relational health. Research shows most people wait 6 years to seek therapy. By this time, the sparks of discontent have become a fiery inferno and the help of a professional is invaluable in the process of healing and reconciliation.
(602) 497-0241 View (602) 497-0241
Psycho-educational class to promote social skills/coping skills/problem solving skills. For Boys and Girls 3rd thru 5th grades Dr. Tony's psychoeducational groups are multi-theoretically based and utilize multi-modal evidenced based interventions. The theoretical framework for Dr. Tony's psychoeducational groups is based on Multiple Intelligence Theory (Goleman, 1995), Social Learning Theory (Bandura, 1993), and Cognitive-Behavioral Theory. Dr. Tony's psychoeducational groups are based on the belief that children can be educated in psychological foundations that will serve to prevent negative outcomes and enhance prosocial skills and personal responsibility across their lifespan.
Photo of Tony Rusch, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Tony Rusch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85286
I have extensive experience working with adults as well as families of children and adolescents that exhibit emotional and behavioral concerns, including the treatment of ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), anxiety, academic underachievement, OCD, depression, interpersonal relationship issues, screen addiction, entitlement, low self-esteem, substance use disorders, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD) as well as stress management for student athletes. I emphasize using evidence-based methods that have scientific backing and I engage in a collaborative process with my clients while respecting their values.
(602) 492-3146 View (602) 492-3146
This women's group is meant to support the mental health of new moms. You will gain a better understanding of what postpartum mood disorders are and how they impact your day to day life. We will introduce new coping strategies or help you identify old ones that could better support your mental health. This group is meant to help you maintain your self care and build resilience while helping you also build up your existing support network.
Photo of Brianna Roenfanz, Counselor, LAC
Hosted by Brianna Roenfanz
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85286
Do you deal with anxiety that does not seem to get better? Do you often compare your ability to handle day to day stressors to friends and family and wonder how they seem to have it "all together"? If are struggling with depression, ADHD, or anxiety- I am here to help. It can be challenging to cope with these feelings and and feeling out of control if we previously felt "fine". In times like these, counseling can help an individual process their experiences and find effective ways to cope.
View
At the Chandler Lifeline PCS location myself as well as other skilled therapists facilitate a womens, mens, and substance abuse group once per week each week
Hosted by LifelinePCS
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85224
I have an extensive background working with SMI clients and work well with clients diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. I also appreciate working with clients who are of Native American background and I am very knowledgeable of the culture of the Akimel O'odham people. I also utilize integrated therapies such as DBT, CBT and Existential therapy when working with those experiencing grief and loss and seek to assist clients experiencing bereavement. I also work well with adolescents, adults and older adults.
(480) 500-7806 View (480) 500-7806
Amia Mental Health and Wellness is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling practice focused on strength building and empowerment.
Photo of Mia (Maria) J Volakis, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Hosted by Mia (Maria) J Volakis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85224
Currently accepting new patients. I am dedicated to empowering others to see their personal value, move forward from challenging or painful experiences, and not only accept who they are today, but to also see the potential in their future. Working together we will explore how to better manage responses to the stress of daily life, as well as move forward from past experiences so you can focus on living for today.
(855) 913-0227 View (855) 913-0227
Infertility and Pregnancy Loss Support Group meets 2nd and 4th Wednesday every month. Big Hope is facilitated by a therapist who has also experienced infertility and pregnancy loss. We will share experiences, tears, laughter and hope. It is a place where we can surround ourselves with others who "get it". It's free to attend but there is a 5-10 min screening phone appointment to make sure the group is a good fit for you and to reserve your spot for the week -the group caps at a low level of attendees to keep an intimate, close knit feel where everyone can share.
Photo of Kimberly Kriesel, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Hosted by Kimberly Kriesel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85286
1 in 11 couples experience infertility, 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression/anxiety, and 1 in every 4 pregnancies ends in a loss. For those experiencing these challenges, it can feel unbearably sad and at times hopeless. We can help! Kim and our other therapists are passionate about helping women transition to and through new parenthood and family-building struggles. We understand what you are going through and offer specialized support and evidence-based solutions to help you feel like yourself again. Reaching out for help is a great choice! Call today for a free 15-minute consult to see if we are a good fit.
(480) 428-3868 View (480) 428-3868
Interpersonal Effectiveness Skill. Each group begins with mindfulness meditation. Learn how to be more skillful in asking others for help. Learn how to say "no" when needed. Learn how to get your opinions taken more seriously. Learn to strengthen your current relationship & how to build new ones. Learn how to increase your self-respect & find more balance in your relationship. Group size will be 5-10 adults. 6 weeks group.
Photo of Jessie Beliard, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Hosted by Jessie Beliard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85226
Therapy is an intimate process; revealing feelings might feel scary and uncomfortable. My greatest reward as a counselor is helping my clients explore ways to make changes in their lives that will allow them to look forward to the future with hope. I provide my clients with a warm, nonjudgmental environment and safe place to explore the issues throughout the counseling journey. I use a variety of approaches for individual or group counseling to help my clients, depending on individual needs. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I’m certified by the National Board for Certified Counselors NBCC.
(602) 857-9870 View (602) 857-9870
Cactus Wren Family Therapy seeks to provide therapeutic care for the whole family. We see children (11+ yo), adults, individuals, couples, parents/co-parents, and families. We also offer group therapy for special groups. Our goal is to provide effective trauma informed care to clients, and to see them experience a relief from their symptoms and able to more fully enjoy their relationships and lives.
Photo of Andrew R Hiemstra, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Andrew R Hiemstra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85225
Whether you're an adult managing the stress of work or relationships, a teen navigating the trials of growing up, or a child trying to make sense of big emotions, life can be challenging! Everyone can use a helping hand, at times, and I'm here to give it. My passion for people, warmth, and fun loving nature have made my 10+ years in therapy an enjoyable time. Together we'll develop goals specific to your needs and identify individualized tools and strategies to help you achieve them.
(480) 644-1224 View (480) 644-1224
Our clinical team at the Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic partnered with Arizona’s Children Association to offer clinical trainings for Arizona Clinicians. Please visit our website below for both online and in-person trainings in Ethics, Cultural Competency, and Clinical Supervision. Please contact us at info@azmftclinic.com with any questions. Thanks! clinicaltrainings.teachable.com
Photo of Karissa Greving Mehall - Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Hosted by Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85226
I provide a supportive, compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgmental environment. Your comfort and trust are the most important aspects to your success. Whether you are having challenges at home, school, or work, we can design a plan that will help you make positive changes in your life. In addition to my clinical practice, I was the Co-Founder and former Co-Director of the ASU Marriage and Family Therapy graduate program.
(480) 382-5925 View (480) 382-5925
Join this safe, confidential and casual group to share experiences, learn from others, and receive emotional support as you work through the effects of trauma, abuse, or similar challenges. Gather to de-stress, strengthen coping skills, increase self-esteem while sharing support, stories, dreams and goals.This group explores self-defeating beliefs and behaviors that keep us from getting what we want and motivates us towards self-awareness and empowerment.
Photo of Roxanne Dalpos, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Hosted by Roxanne Dalpos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85224
I am a licensed psychotherpist in AZ and nationally certified. I am trained in various techniques that help with the resolution of trauma, abuse, neglect, addiction, and personality corrections. In addition, I can provide testing for behavioral, emotional, personality, and psychological concerns. As the clinical director, I coordinate and oversee our groups and IOP (intensive outpatient) programs. My team includes Spanish speaking services and the ability to work with those who have other concerns such as anxiey, bipolar, depression, ADHD, and emotional dysregulation as part of individual, group, IOP counseling.
(480) 382-1929 View (480) 382-1929
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work is a workshop by Dr. John Gottman, offering insights from research on successful relationships. Topics Discussed include: 1. **Enhance Love Maps**: Deep understanding of partner. 2. **Nurture Fondness and Admiration**: Show appreciation and respect. 3. **Turn Toward Each Other**: Be responsive to partner's needs. 4. **Let Your Partner Influence You**: Value opinions and collaborate. 5. **Solve Solvable Problems**: Address conflicts constructively. 6. **Overcome Gridlock**: Navigate perpetual conflicts with empathy. 7. **Create Shared Meaning**: Establish shared values and goals. These principles aim to strengthen emotional connection, resolve conflicts, and build a meaningful partnership.
Photo of Nicole O'Hare, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CMHIMP, CCATP, CTMH
Hosted by Nicole O'Hare
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CMHIMP, CCATP, CTMH
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85286
Accepting New Clients - I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, passionate about helping my clients achieve fulfillment in their daily lives. I am a Level 3 Gottman Method Couples Therapist, which enables me to provide tools for helping couples communicate effectively and transform their relationship. I also maintain an advanced certification as a Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider. This certification allows me to utilize a more holistic approach to treating from an integrative perspective. I am able to help clients achieve optimal mental and physical health and wellness while using a mind-body approach to healing.
(602) 786-6983 View (602) 786-6983
Available at all locations!Times/dates vary depending on need and location. GRASP is our all inclusive adolescent intensive outpatient program. This programs include groups such as; DBT, Trauma, Substance Abuse, and Creative/Expressive Arts. These programs entail 3 days of group therapy and also individual counseling. Our goal for your adolescent is to have a program that encompasses all their needs to be the best they can be. This program accepts most major insurance and is eligible for our sliding fee scale. To get started or if you have any questions please contact our office today!
Photo of Kimberly Foss, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hosted by Kimberly Foss
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85224
Book with me now using my website! Each day is an opportunity to grow and change as an individual. There are countless opportunities to adapt to new situations, and develop skills to deal with life's obstacles. I have studied the art of therapy to help you achieve your goals while working to develop balance, growth, and coping skills you can then apply to your every day life. My focus as your therapist is to help you navigate through obstacles such as, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and trauma. We will work together to help you find new ways of coping and expressing your emotions.
(520) 727-6860 View (520) 727-6860
Available at all locations!Times/dates vary depending on need and location. GRASP is our all inclusive adolescent intensive outpatient program. This programs include groups such as; DBT, Trauma, Substance Abuse, and Creative/Expressive Arts. These programs entail 3 days of group therapy and also individual counseling. Our goal for your adolescent is to have a program that encompasses all their needs to be the best they can be. This program accepts most major insurance and is eligible for our sliding fee scale. To get started or if you have any questions please contact our office today!
Photo of Ahinoam Chavez, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hosted by Ahinoam Chavez
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85224
¡Hola! Soy una Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) y actualmente trabajo con Lifeline PCS en Chandler. Brindo terapia presencial y virtual. Trabajo con individuos de diferentes edades que estén interesados en crear una mejor versión de sí mismos. Tengo experiencia ayudando a personas con ansiedad, depresión, duelo, trauma, dificultades de identidad y autoestima, cambios y ajustes en la vida o simplemente están pasando por una situación difícil.
(480) 725-8524 View (480) 725-8524
Available at all locations!Times/dates vary depending on need and location. GRASP is our all inclusive adolescent intensive outpatient program. This programs include groups such as; DBT, Trauma, Substance Abuse, and Creative/Expressive Arts. These programs entail 3 days of group therapy and also individual counseling. Our goal for your adolescent is to have a program that encompasses all their needs to be the best they can be. This program accepts most major insurance and is eligible for our sliding fee scale. To get started or if you have any questions please contact our office today!
Photo of Wanza Hinton, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Hosted by Wanza Hinton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85224
My ideal client is someone who is seeking counseling for experiencing anxiety/depressions, or for their substance use, or is court mandated because of substance use, or is impacted by substance use or an addiction. The client has a desire to learn or want something to change. I can provide support and guidance in a safe, non-judgemental environment to address their immediate need as they go through a process of discovery and healing.
(480) 842-5562 View (480) 842-5562
The first year of motherhood is full of excitement but also change and uncertainty. BTB will provide an opportunity for new moms to learn, listen, share, support, and feel connection. BTB is facilitated by clinicians who specialize in maternal mental health. (registration required call 480.319.4413)
Photo of Mallory Phelps, Counselor, MS, LAC
Hosted by Mallory Phelps
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Chandler, AZ 85286
My journey into this field was inspired by a desire to provide unwavering support to expecting and new mothers, fostering emotional well-being during one of life's most transformative phases. I also integrate mindfulness-based practices from my background as a trained yoga instructor, as well as offer EMDR for trauma, including birth trauma. I receive supervision from Kim Kriesel and she can be contacted at 480-319-4413. I am accepting new clients starting August 2024.
(623) 294-2268 View (623) 294-2268
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See more therapy options for Chandler

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Chandler?

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.