Support Groups in Ojai, CA
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to reduce emotion dysregulation, impulsive behavior, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treat other mental health or behavioral issues. The goal of DBT is to help teens change ineffective behavior patterns by learning skills that will help them reach their goals. Our programs include four DBT skills groups a week that cover core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Teens learn a new DBT skill in each group. Our staff help teens practice these skills so that they know how to use them in their daily lives.

Hosted by Evolve Residential Treatment for Teens
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
At Evolve Ojai, we provide the highest caliber of evidence-based residential treatment for children and adolescents 12-17 struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, dual diagnosis, ADHD, self-harming or high-risk behaviors, suicidality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, and other emotional/behavioral issues. Our primary modes of treatment are Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. We believe treatment works best when it is individually tailored. Our clinical staff conducts a comprehensive evaluation of each child and teen pre- and post-admission in order to develop a customized, highly detailed treatment plan that is constantly updated based on treatment progress. Our robust clinical program includes individual and family therapy, weekly psychiatry, daily academics, and groups on DBT Skills Training, Anger Management, Relapse Prevention, & Seeking Safety. Kids and teens also participate in experiential therapies (e.g. equine, surfing, music, art, dance, kickboxing, fitness, cooking, yoga, and meditation). We offer 12-Step/SMART Recovery programs for those struggling with substance use and dual diagnoses.
Support for women navigating complexities of mid-life, peri/menopause, caregiver stress, launching adult children, relationships

Im passionate about helping women like you who are navigating the complexities of life, yearning to find ease, contentment and joy. My clients’ issues are multifaceted, ranging from emotional upheavals and stress, women’s health issues, parenting, relationships and questioning life purpose and fulfillment. You likely are seeking support not just to cope but to thrive amidst these challenges.
In this group, we share our personal stories of loss, and discover that our story is not so different from others. You are not alone. You may even feel that others are telling your story for you. You deserve to have help in navigating the challenging, isolating feelings of grief.

Hosted by Rowan Octavia Lommel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
I am open to clients with a wide range of backgrounds and challenges. My focus is simply this: to reduce suffering so that the client can lead a more fulfilling life. I love understanding what is holding you back from leading a deeply contented life, and helping you release that. I love working with couple clients because it is so exciting to hold the passion as we work on building harmony and trust. My ideal client wants to grow and change which requires being open to the magic of living beyond habits.
A relationship and intimacy group for women who have suffered the trauma of infidelity and sexual acting-out behaviors of their partners/spouses. How to reclaim yourself, become empowered, integrated, balanced and fulfilled. Learning to feel "complete" rather than needing someone else to complete you.

Hosted by Chaarenne T. Torris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCII, LAADACr, ICADC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
If you are ready to make a change in your life and a committment to do the work, I will help you regain your health and happiness.
I practice transpersonal psychology which focuses on the integration of body, mind and spirit. This helps to bring balance to your life and is effective in bringing about lasting, positive change.
Together we will identify your strengths and increase your coping skills.
I will be honest,direct and gently challenging, helping you regain your "best self". I work best with issues of trauma, relationships, addictions (all types) and codependency, child custody and co-parenting/mediation.
When trouble occurs within a couple or family, the most effective treatment is relationship or family therapy. The thought of meeting as a family or couple may be daunting but imagine the benefits of improving your communication around tender topics or finally having a good conversation about that elephant in the room. I have worked effectively with hundreds of families and couples to bring respect, openness and humor into the conversation. My goal is to support you to get the lasting results you want as quickly and effectively as possible. Call to set up a free 30 minute consultation.

Hosted by Curtis Knecht
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
If you're here, I imagine you're suffering from something that feels beyond your ability to cope. I'm guessing you'd like to lay it all out on a table to see what's true and what's a lie, to discover what you need to do and to learn so you can grow past this thing. Would you like to move forward with confidence in yourself? Do you want a safe and courageous space to do what it takes to heal and grow? That's what I offer.
New workshops for couples! Increase trust and intimacy with your partner. Learn new relationship skills, and have time to practice them with your partner. Glori and her life partner, Leon Berg, combine their talents to introduce you to a process which encourages deep listening, and heartful expression. We introduce basic relational practices in one all-day session. Partners practice the exercises, learn about each other, and learn how to create a safe, loving place for intimacy in relationships.

Hosted by Glori R Zeltzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
Do you wonder if you and your partner are growing apart?
Do you keep having the same argument, without anything changing?
Do you feel like giving up?
Sometimes the feelings that bring couples together get lost in the struggles of everyday life.
Learn how to resolve conflicts and share feelings without arguing. Use conflict to create deeper intimacy instead of distance.
Relationship counseling helps couples learn to grow together instead of drifting apart. I work with couples and individuals to help them grow together and stay together. I would like to help you and your partner have a loving relationship.
Learn and practice skills to address anxiety with the combination of therapeutic yoga and psychotherapy. We'll explore themes such as the adaptive role of stress, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT techniques)/self talk, using the 5 senses of calming, body scan/mindfulness/relaxation techniques, window of tolerance, ways to express and release anxiety, learning to listen to and trust your body. Visit www.breatheojai.com for more information and booking.

Hosted by Charletta Erb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
I love working with couples as well as individuals interested in hike or nature-based therapy. From our very first session you will take home practical tools for both communication and relaxation. In moments of stress, you will have less blaming ways to express what you need to keep things from escalating. For those times when you do lose your cool, you will know more about calming yourself down before saying something you regret. I'll help you learn to be kinder to yourself, to be aware of how you talk to yourself. For starters, don't believe everything you think!
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to reduce emotion dysregulation, impulsive behavior, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treat other mental health or behavioral issues. The goal of DBT is to help teens change ineffective behavior patterns by learning skills that will help them reach their goals. Our programs include four DBT skills groups a week that cover core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Teens learn a new DBT skill in each group. Our staff help teens practice these skills so that they know how to use them in their daily lives.

Hosted by Evolve Depression Treatment for Teens
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
At Evolve, we provide compassionate, individualized care to help teens navigate challenges and rediscover hope. We offer therapeutic programs for teens, including short-term residential treatment. Our RTC for teens serves only six clients at a time, allowing for truly individualized care, 24/7 support and supervision, and evidence-based therapies. In addition, Evolve provides structured outpatient therapy for teens through our full-day teen Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school teen Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Rooted in compassion and connection, our teen treatment programs help adolescents heal and grow.
This is a group designed to get the best start to your day and greet the morning with a easy to moderate walk, focusing on peace, beauty and mindfulness. We will focus on a theme and develop simple yet inspiring wellness goals for the day.

Hosted by Robin Balchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Eco-Psy
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
If you or your child are struggling with stress, anxiety, grief, or trauma, I can help. I offer individual sessions in the outdoors, where we take peaceful and mindful walks talking alongside each other, or via phone/video sessions for those who feel more comfortable in their own home. For those needing support and/or guidance getting through a difficult transition (relationships, work, school, crisis, medical), we can work together to get you on the road to peace and security.
Based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) offers an evidence-based approach designed to help individuals struggling with addiction and provides practical skills to help teens manage their thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Although SMART Recovery is an abstinence-oriented program, it allows flexible goal setting, whether that means reducing certain behaviors with a harm reduction approach or working towards complete sobriety. Unlike the 12-Step model, SMART Recovery offers a more achievable recovery path, giving teens the tools to make positive and sustainable changes in their lives without the pressure of a lifelong commitment.

Hosted by Evolve Depression Treatment for Teens
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
At Evolve, we provide compassionate, individualized care to help teens navigate challenges and rediscover hope. We offer therapeutic programs for teens, including short-term residential treatment. Our RTC for teens serves only six clients at a time, allowing for truly individualized care, 24/7 support and supervision, and evidence-based therapies. In addition, Evolve provides structured outpatient therapy for teens through our full-day teen Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school teen Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Rooted in compassion and connection, our teen treatment programs help adolescents heal and grow.
Based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) offers an evidence-based approach designed to help individuals struggling with addiction and provides practical skills to help teens manage their thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Although SMART Recovery is an abstinence-oriented program, it allows flexible goal setting, whether that means reducing certain behaviors with a harm reduction approach or working towards complete sobriety. Unlike the 12-Step model, SMART Recovery offers a more achievable recovery path, giving teens the tools to make positive and sustainable changes in their lives without the pressure of a lifelong commitment.

Hosted by Evolve Residential Treatment for Teens
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
At Evolve Ojai, we provide the highest caliber of evidence-based residential treatment for children and adolescents 12-17 struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, dual diagnosis, ADHD, self-harming or high-risk behaviors, suicidality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, and other emotional/behavioral issues. Our primary modes of treatment are Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. We believe treatment works best when it is individually tailored. Our clinical staff conducts a comprehensive evaluation of each child and teen pre- and post-admission in order to develop a customized, highly detailed treatment plan that is constantly updated based on treatment progress. Our robust clinical program includes individual and family therapy, weekly psychiatry, daily academics, and groups on DBT Skills Training, Anger Management, Relapse Prevention, & Seeking Safety. Kids and teens also participate in experiential therapies (e.g. equine, surfing, music, art, dance, kickboxing, fitness, cooking, yoga, and meditation). We offer 12-Step/SMART Recovery programs for those struggling with substance use and dual diagnoses.
Support group for those navigating grief of losing a loved one, facing end of life challenges, enduring painful loss i.e death, divorce, career,health (Adults- all genders welcome)

Im passionate about helping women like you who are navigating the complexities of life, yearning to find ease, contentment and joy. My clients’ issues are multifaceted, ranging from emotional upheavals and stress, women’s health issues, parenting, relationships and questioning life purpose and fulfillment. You likely are seeking support not just to cope but to thrive amidst these challenges.
In this group, we explore how relationships are impacted by difficult personality traits. Moreover, we explore how we may overgeneralize our attempt to understand them and make quick categorical attributes about their personality. We will explore several features of these relationships, including the difficulty of boundaries, the challenge to habituate, and the need to generalize to protect ourselves from trauma. We expect the group to run for 6-8 weeks.

Over the course of his career, Dr. Valenzuela has worked in a variety of settings. The breadth of his experience includes extensive work with severe mood and psychotic disorders. Dr. Valenzuela’s commitment to addressing mental health issues from an early age has informed his work with adolescents in the juvenile justice system and in schools. His work in local community settings has guided his professional identity as a warm, empathic, nonjudgmental, and depth-oriented practitioner.
This group is focused on providing therapy, support and information for those in recovery from addictions. A transpersonal approach is used, working with body, mind and spirit to provide the best opportunity to achieve successful recovery. All types of addiction challenges are accepted.

Hosted by Chaarenne T. Torris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADCII, LAADACr, ICADC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
If you are ready to make a change in your life and a committment to do the work, I will help you regain your health and happiness.
I practice transpersonal psychology which focuses on the integration of body, mind and spirit. This helps to bring balance to your life and is effective in bringing about lasting, positive change.
Together we will identify your strengths and increase your coping skills.
I will be honest,direct and gently challenging, helping you regain your "best self". I work best with issues of trauma, relationships, addictions (all types) and codependency, child custody and co-parenting/mediation.
Our free virtual parent support group is facilitated by a licensed therapist and offers parents of teens a vital lifeline in today's challenging parenting landscape. This weekly online group provides a safe, confidential space where caregivers connect, share experiences, and exchange resources. Participants gain support as they navigate complex issues such as mental health concerns, substance abuse, behavioral problems, academic pressures, and social media challenges. By fostering a supportive community, we empower parents to build resilience, practice their own self-care, and guide their teens through adolescence with confidence and compassion. Register for this community group on our website.

Hosted by Evolve Residential Treatment for Teens
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
At Evolve Ojai, we provide the highest caliber of evidence-based residential treatment for children and adolescents 12-17 struggling with depression, anxiety, substance use, dual diagnosis, ADHD, self-harming or high-risk behaviors, suicidality, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, and other emotional/behavioral issues. Our primary modes of treatment are Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. We believe treatment works best when it is individually tailored. Our clinical staff conducts a comprehensive evaluation of each child and teen pre- and post-admission in order to develop a customized, highly detailed treatment plan that is constantly updated based on treatment progress. Our robust clinical program includes individual and family therapy, weekly psychiatry, daily academics, and groups on DBT Skills Training, Anger Management, Relapse Prevention, & Seeking Safety. Kids and teens also participate in experiential therapies (e.g. equine, surfing, music, art, dance, kickboxing, fitness, cooking, yoga, and meditation). We offer 12-Step/SMART Recovery programs for those struggling with substance use and dual diagnoses.
Thrive Wellness Workshop offers therapeutic outdoor experiences that inspire individual wellness, a deeper connection to nature and a sense of togetherness. We host hiking & camping adventures for kids and adults with non-clinical therapeutic supports from mental health therapist facilitators. Visit our website for current offerings ThriveWellnessWorkshop.com.

Hosted by Tessa Magill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
I work with teens and adults that are looking to discuss their troubles, adjustments and triumphs with warm support. My approach for my clients is a combination of collaborative reflection and strategic action toward their goals. My work focuses on feeling heard, managing life's challenges with healthy coping strategies, replacing old habits with more functional ones and expanding our understanding and love for ourselves. I run therapeutic hiking groups that address the shared struggles of preteens, teens and adults. Most commonly girl's and women's issues around topics like self-love, disconnection and anxiety.
Our free virtual parent support group is facilitated by a licensed therapist and offers parents of teens a vital lifeline in today's challenging parenting landscape. This weekly online group provides a safe, confidential space where caregivers connect, share experiences, and exchange resources. Participants gain support as they navigate complex issues such as mental health concerns, substance abuse, behavioral problems, academic pressures, and social media challenges. By fostering a supportive community, we empower parents to build resilience, practice their own self-care, and guide their teens through adolescence with confidence and compassion. Register for this community group on our website.

Hosted by Evolve Depression Treatment for Teens
Treatment Center
Verified Verified
Group meets in Ojai, CA 93023
At Evolve, we provide compassionate, individualized care to help teens navigate challenges and rediscover hope. We offer therapeutic programs for teens, including short-term residential treatment. Our RTC for teens serves only six clients at a time, allowing for truly individualized care, 24/7 support and supervision, and evidence-based therapies. In addition, Evolve provides structured outpatient therapy for teens through our full-day teen Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and after-school teen Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Rooted in compassion and connection, our teen treatment programs help adolescents heal and grow.
More Groups Nearby
This group focuses on betrayal trauma recovery. Whether you have experienced betrayal or heartbreak in your past and are looking for more support or recently had a disclosure or discovery, this group could be a great space for you. This ten-week recovery group is designed to give individuals a safe space to find clarity and feel connected to a community who can truly relate. You will be given practical therapeutic guidance and specific steps to walk you through the healing process of betrayal and possible reconciliation within your relationship.

Hosted by Eliza Nielsen Monteverdi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CPTT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Westlake Village, CA 91361
Do you struggle with feeling anxious, confused or depressed and it's affecting your day to day life, your relationship, or ability to feel like yourself? Do you feel disconnected and resentful about the standards, expectations, and pressures life throws on you? Do you wonder if your self worth and relationship could be better? Now more than ever people are feeling overwhelmed about it looks like to love yourself first and work through past hurts. I mean we hear about it, but therapy with me puts it into action.
Ongoing, weekly support group where participants can gather in community to process recovery and healing from an Eating Disorder. Groups will incorporate supportive process and solution based interventions.

Hosted by Alicia Perez
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPCC, CEDS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Moorpark, CA 93020
I am a compassionate and direct psychotherapist dedicated to helping people heal and change emotional, behavioral and relational patterns that are keeping them stuck. With an affirming and client-centered approach, I create a safe, supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Through a collaborative process, I work with clients to identify their goals and determine modalities that work best to meet them. I regularly incorporate; Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Psychodynamic Therapy into my work.
Our group focuses on teaching teens coping skills to manage their emotions and cope with distressing situations. The group is designed to help teens who struggle with emotional regulation, self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideation, and other issues related to mental health.

Hosted by Alison Hochman
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Camarillo, CA 93010
As a therapist, my ideal client is someone seeking to overcome past trauma, improve their relationships, or navigate identity challenges. They may struggle with PTSD, addiction, or parenting issues and seek a compassionate space to explore these concerns. Their goals include healing from past wounds, building deeper connections, and living authentically. They want to feel empowered and supported in their journey, recognizing that asking for help is a strength. Together, we work towards creating a fulfilling and balanced life aligned with their values.
See more therapy options for Ojai
FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in Ojai?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.