Support Groups in Palo Alto, CA

An ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) group for anxiety and depression. ACT is an empirically based psychological intervention that uses acceptance and mindfulness strategies (such as meditation), together with commitment and behavior change strategies, to increase psychological flexibility. Dr. Redzic formerly ran this group at Stanford for Stanford students.
Photo of Nicole Redzic, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Nicole Redzic
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94301
An ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) group for anxiety and depression. ACT is an empirically based psychological intervention that uses acceptance and mindfulness strategies (such as meditation), together with commitment and behavior change strategies, to increase psychological flexibility. Dr. Redzic formerly ran this group at Stanford for Stanford students.
(650) 409-2611 View (650) 409-2611
Childhood trauma is defined as an event or events experienced by a child that is emotionally painful, frightening, or distressful, which can often lead to lasting mental and physical effects. Symptoms of childhood trauma in adults can include but are not limited to anger, depression, emotional outbursts, addiction, low self-esteem, and social disconnectedness. This group is for adult survivors of (childhood) physical, sexual, and or emotional abuse. The purpose of the group is to provide an open, safe, and supportive space for survivors to process unresolved feelings and build connections and friendships while healing from childhood trauma together.
Photo of Christine Rivlin, Counselor, LPCC
Hosted by Christine Rivlin
Counselor, LPCC
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94301
Childhood trauma is defined as an event or events experienced by a child that is emotionally painful, frightening, or distressful, which can often lead to lasting mental and physical effects. Symptoms of childhood trauma in adults can include but are not limited to anger, depression, emotional outbursts, addiction, low self-esteem, and social disconnectedness. This group is for adult survivors of (childhood) physical, sexual, and or emotional abuse. The purpose of the group is to provide an open, safe, and supportive space for survivors to process unresolved feelings and build connections and friendships while healing from childhood trauma together.
(408) 418-2143 View (408) 418-2143
RISE Intensive Outpatient Program for high school teens features comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), including: individual and group therapy, multi-family skills groups to help foster positive family relationships, and 24/7 phone coaching for teens. Staffed by seasoned, licensed clinicians who specialize in working with teens, the 12-week program offers adolescent psychiatry and medication management; support with transitions between IOP, inpatient and outpatient therapy; and coordination with outside mental health providers, school staff and appropriate medical professionals. Insurance-based; scholarships available for un/underinsured clients. Currently operating in a hybrid model.
Photo of Children's Health Council - Children's Health Council (CHC), Treatment Center
Hosted by Children's Health Council (CHC)
Treatment Center
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94304
RISE Intensive Outpatient Program for high school teens features comprehensive Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), including: individual and group therapy, multi-family skills groups to help foster positive family relationships, and 24/7 phone coaching for teens. Staffed by seasoned, licensed clinicians who specialize in working with teens, the 12-week program offers adolescent psychiatry and medication management; support with transitions between IOP, inpatient and outpatient therapy; and coordination with outside mental health providers, school staff and appropriate medical professionals. Insurance-based; scholarships available for un/underinsured clients. Currently operating in a hybrid model.
(650) 681-2772 View (650) 681-2772
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) offers structured support for emotional regulation, stress coping, and improved relationships in individuals struggling with various issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, and personality disorders. This group can assist you in learning effective mindfulness practices, distress tolerance, and communication skills. Group sessions focus on sharing experiences, validating each other, and learning DBT techniques. The group setting encourages connection, empowerment, and consistent practice of therapeutic tools. The eight-session program covers various DBT skills, ultimately aiming to promote healing and reclaiming a sense of self-control.
Photo of Alexa Enyart, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Hosted by Alexa Enyart
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94301
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) offers structured support for emotional regulation, stress coping, and improved relationships in individuals struggling with various issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, and personality disorders. This group can assist you in learning effective mindfulness practices, distress tolerance, and communication skills. Group sessions focus on sharing experiences, validating each other, and learning DBT techniques. The group setting encourages connection, empowerment, and consistent practice of therapeutic tools. The eight-session program covers various DBT skills, ultimately aiming to promote healing and reclaiming a sense of self-control.
(650) 910-4282 View (650) 910-4282
A supportive therapy group incorporating treatment techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Wisdom Therapy. Anxiety affects tens of millions of people in the U.S. and can lead to increased stress, health problems, job conflicts, relationship issues, and avoidance and decreased enjoyment of pleasurable activities. This group can help you reduce your anxiety and enjoy a fuller life. Participants will learn to: 1) Apply relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and visualization 2) Change self-defeating patterns of fearful or negative thinking 3) Develop coping and assertiveness skills for dealing with anxiety-provoking situations 4) Develop a greater sense of control and confidence
Photo of Shani Robins, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Shani Robins
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94309
A supportive therapy group incorporating treatment techniques from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and Wisdom Therapy. Anxiety affects tens of millions of people in the U.S. and can lead to increased stress, health problems, job conflicts, relationship issues, and avoidance and decreased enjoyment of pleasurable activities. This group can help you reduce your anxiety and enjoy a fuller life. Participants will learn to: 1) Apply relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and visualization 2) Change self-defeating patterns of fearful or negative thinking 3) Develop coping and assertiveness skills for dealing with anxiety-provoking situations 4) Develop a greater sense of control and confidence
(650) 830-5041 View (650) 830-5041
Join Jennifer for a virtual Expressive Arts Grief and Loss group beginning on March 8, 2022. Groups will be limited to 6 participants, and will occur every two weeks. Please reach out with questions and for more information about the format of the group, and the Expressive Arts.
Photo of Jennifer Martin, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Jennifer Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94306
Join Jennifer for a virtual Expressive Arts Grief and Loss group beginning on March 8, 2022. Groups will be limited to 6 participants, and will occur every two weeks. Please reach out with questions and for more information about the format of the group, and the Expressive Arts.
(510) 439-9875 View (510) 439-9875
This is a small (up to 10 participants), confidential virtual (zoom) group that is aimed to support and empower women who are healing from sexual trauma. You will be able to connect with other survivors, share your story, learn coping skills, and gain better understanding about trauma and trauma responses. The group is process oriented, and we often use poetry, quotes, and visual arts as entry points for discussion and reflection.
Photo of Chally Grundwag, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Chally Grundwag
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94303
This is a small (up to 10 participants), confidential virtual (zoom) group that is aimed to support and empower women who are healing from sexual trauma. You will be able to connect with other survivors, share your story, learn coping skills, and gain better understanding about trauma and trauma responses. The group is process oriented, and we often use poetry, quotes, and visual arts as entry points for discussion and reflection.
(650) 479-1401 View (650) 479-1401
This group is a six-week therapy group for women, blending the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model and mindfulness. This group is tailored for those navigating grief, trauma, relationship shifts, and career challenges along with a safe space for exploration. I offer guided exercises, discussions, & compassionate support to empower you to deepen your self-awareness and resilience. Each session delves into parts recognition, self-compassion, healing exiled parts, and integrating the inner self. Join this transformative journey, celebrating progress and setting intentions for ongoing transformation. 'Embracing Change' offers women strength, solace, and authentic resilience. Contact me for a free consultation.
Photo of Kelly Albrecht, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Hosted by Kelly Albrecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ASW
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94301
This group is a six-week therapy group for women, blending the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model and mindfulness. This group is tailored for those navigating grief, trauma, relationship shifts, and career challenges along with a safe space for exploration. I offer guided exercises, discussions, & compassionate support to empower you to deepen your self-awareness and resilience. Each session delves into parts recognition, self-compassion, healing exiled parts, and integrating the inner self. Join this transformative journey, celebrating progress and setting intentions for ongoing transformation. 'Embracing Change' offers women strength, solace, and authentic resilience. Contact me for a free consultation.
(650) 436-4565 View (650) 436-4565
Your past doesn’t define you. This 6-week trauma-processing group provides a safe space for adult survivors of childhood physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. Through guided discussions, coping strategies, and inner child healing, you’ll gain tools to manage triggers, set boundaries, and build resilience. Connect with others who understand your journey and reclaim control over your life. You are stronger than you think. Reach out for a free diagnostic tool and a 20-minute consultation to see if this group is right for you. Healing is possible—you don’t have to do it alone.
Photo of Laurel Salmon, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Hosted by Laurel Salmon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94301
Your past doesn’t define you. This 6-week trauma-processing group provides a safe space for adult survivors of childhood physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. Through guided discussions, coping strategies, and inner child healing, you’ll gain tools to manage triggers, set boundaries, and build resilience. Connect with others who understand your journey and reclaim control over your life. You are stronger than you think. Reach out for a free diagnostic tool and a 20-minute consultation to see if this group is right for you. Healing is possible—you don’t have to do it alone.
(650) 977-4305 View (650) 977-4305
This group teaches DBT skills tailored for individuals with bipolar disorder who are interested in learning skills for managing moods and emotions in a structured group environment. I have conducted this group for 13 years (at Stanford and now in my private practice). Groups last 1.5 hours and meet for 14 consecutive weeks. Each 14-week module addresses a particular set of skills (Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness). Mindfulness skills are taught and practiced in each group. Groups begin every 3-4 months in Palo Alto. Please contact me to enroll or visit www.bipolartherapy.net.
Photo of Jenifer L Culver, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Jenifer L Culver
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94306
This group teaches DBT skills tailored for individuals with bipolar disorder who are interested in learning skills for managing moods and emotions in a structured group environment. I have conducted this group for 13 years (at Stanford and now in my private practice). Groups last 1.5 hours and meet for 14 consecutive weeks. Each 14-week module addresses a particular set of skills (Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness). Mindfulness skills are taught and practiced in each group. Groups begin every 3-4 months in Palo Alto. Please contact me to enroll or visit www.bipolartherapy.net.
(650) 656-2601 View (650) 656-2601
It's important to talk about your loved one, honor your emotions and recognize the various stages of mourning. With loss also comes changes in self-identity and the role a person plays in life. This group is a safe space where you can share your story without judgment, and find comfort and understanding among others who are going through a similar experience. This group will assist you in exploring your thoughts on identity changes and also have a safe space to explore your unresolved feelings.
Photo of Cathy Trenary, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, IFS
Hosted by Cathy Trenary
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, IFS
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94301
It's important to talk about your loved one, honor your emotions and recognize the various stages of mourning. With loss also comes changes in self-identity and the role a person plays in life. This group is a safe space where you can share your story without judgment, and find comfort and understanding among others who are going through a similar experience. This group will assist you in exploring your thoughts on identity changes and also have a safe space to explore your unresolved feelings.
(650) 628-6703 View (650) 628-6703
Located in the heart of downtown Palo Alto, The Palo Alto Psychology Group is a partnership of Stanford-trained clinicians dedicated to evidenced-based treatment. We specialize in a range of clinical approaches to the treatment of various mood, anxiety, and related disorders. We work with our patients, tailoring evidenced- based clinical approaches to their individual needs. Our clinicians are also integrally familiar with the stresses and challenges of living and working in Silicon Valley and focus their work on navigating the specific challenges individuals confront in this area.
Photo of Jason Angel, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Jason Angel
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94301
Located in the heart of downtown Palo Alto, The Palo Alto Psychology Group is a partnership of Stanford-trained clinicians dedicated to evidenced-based treatment. We specialize in a range of clinical approaches to the treatment of various mood, anxiety, and related disorders. We work with our patients, tailoring evidenced- based clinical approaches to their individual needs. Our clinicians are also integrally familiar with the stresses and challenges of living and working in Silicon Valley and focus their work on navigating the specific challenges individuals confront in this area.
(650) 466-7917 View (650) 466-7917
Supportive group for woman to have an outlet to discuss their struggles with breast cancer and have other woman they can share their stories with and relate too.
Photo of Lacey Marie Morris, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Hosted by Lacey Marie Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94306
Supportive group for woman to have an outlet to discuss their struggles with breast cancer and have other woman they can share their stories with and relate too.
(408) 207-4475 View (408) 207-4475
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) offers structured support for emotional regulation, stress coping, and improved relationships in individuals struggling with various issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, and personality disorders. This group can assist you in learning effective mindfulness practices, distress tolerance, and communication skills. Group sessions focus on sharing experiences, validating each other, and learning DBT techniques. The group setting encourages connection, empowerment, and consistent practice of therapeutic tools. The eight-session program covers various DBT skills, ultimately aiming to promote healing and reclaiming a sense of self-control.
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Hosted by Veronica Ghabour
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94301
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) offers structured support for emotional regulation, stress coping, and improved relationships in individuals struggling with various issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, OCD, and personality disorders. This group can assist you in learning effective mindfulness practices, distress tolerance, and communication skills. Group sessions focus on sharing experiences, validating each other, and learning DBT techniques. The group setting encourages connection, empowerment, and consistent practice of therapeutic tools. The eight-session program covers various DBT skills, ultimately aiming to promote healing and reclaiming a sense of self-control.
(650) 910-4414 View (650) 910-4414
This group uses education, mindfulness, and meditation practices to aid women in better understanding the relationship between their minds and bodies. Specifically the group teaches participants how to better manage stress and incorporate greater self-care and compassion into their daily routines in order to achieve enhanced health and well-being.
Photo of Leighna Harrison, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Leighna Harrison
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94303
This group uses education, mindfulness, and meditation practices to aid women in better understanding the relationship between their minds and bodies. Specifically the group teaches participants how to better manage stress and incorporate greater self-care and compassion into their daily routines in order to achieve enhanced health and well-being.
(650) 667-8127 View (650) 667-8127
Are you a working professional with autistic traits, and you struggle with social interactions? Are you wanting to improve communication skills at work, make friends, reduce stress, and learn about yourself? Then this is the group for you. The group will provide helpful strategies and an opportunity to get to know other neurodiverse individuals like yourself, who understand your challenges and support you! The group is 20 weeks long, and meets weekly for 1 hour and 30 mins. Group Forming! Contact us today to schedule an intake and reserve your spot in the group!
Photo of Tasha Oswald, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Tasha Oswald
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94306
Are you a working professional with autistic traits, and you struggle with social interactions? Are you wanting to improve communication skills at work, make friends, reduce stress, and learn about yourself? Then this is the group for you. The group will provide helpful strategies and an opportunity to get to know other neurodiverse individuals like yourself, who understand your challenges and support you! The group is 20 weeks long, and meets weekly for 1 hour and 30 mins. Group Forming! Contact us today to schedule an intake and reserve your spot in the group!
(650) 460-5059 View (650) 460-5059
This group is open to anyone supporting a loved one with Alzheimer's or related dementias. The focus includes sharing and understnading common feelings, grief, and practical information and resources. Group members help one another to reduce their isolation and share their experiences and knowledge. You don't have to be alone on this journey.
Photo of Nina M Poletika, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CT
Hosted by Nina M Poletika
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CT
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94306
This group is open to anyone supporting a loved one with Alzheimer's or related dementias. The focus includes sharing and understnading common feelings, grief, and practical information and resources. Group members help one another to reduce their isolation and share their experiences and knowledge. You don't have to be alone on this journey.
(650) 276-5441 View (650) 276-5441
Adolescence is a tough period in a child's life as it's marked by persistent sadness, discouragement, loss of self-worth, and interest in usual activities. Depression can be a transient response to many situations and stresses. In adolescence, depressed mood is common element of the normal maturation process, the stress associated with it, the influence of hormones, and independence conflicts with parents. This is an active, funny, lively, supportive and well established group, with all teens attending it, every week. This group meets ONLINE as teens are located all over the SF Bay Area and California
Photo of Jayn Rajandran - Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, PCC, LMFT, IO, CGE, DTS
Hosted by Dr. Jayn Rajandran PsyD / Jayn.Org
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, PCC, LMFT, IO, CGE, DTS
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94301
Adolescence is a tough period in a child's life as it's marked by persistent sadness, discouragement, loss of self-worth, and interest in usual activities. Depression can be a transient response to many situations and stresses. In adolescence, depressed mood is common element of the normal maturation process, the stress associated with it, the influence of hormones, and independence conflicts with parents. This is an active, funny, lively, supportive and well established group, with all teens attending it, every week. This group meets ONLINE as teens are located all over the SF Bay Area and California
(415) 237-2282 View (415) 237-2282
The Friend's Program is a therapeutic group program designed to address the developing needs of children and their families who are challenged by: Social communication, social interactions, joint symbolic play with peers, Emotional Regulation, Communication, and Sensory Integration. Coping with the daily challenges of school, such as being flexible, making transitions, and participating in all of the group activities. Parents meet for a therapist led group at the same time as the children in a different room.
Photo of Alice Locke-Chezar, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Hosted by Alice Locke-Chezar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94306
The Friend's Program is a therapeutic group program designed to address the developing needs of children and their families who are challenged by: Social communication, social interactions, joint symbolic play with peers, Emotional Regulation, Communication, and Sensory Integration. Coping with the daily challenges of school, such as being flexible, making transitions, and participating in all of the group activities. Parents meet for a therapist led group at the same time as the children in a different room.
(650) 224-2849 View (650) 224-2849
www.penbh.com
Photo of Joyce P Yang, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Joyce P Yang
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Palo Alto, CA 94306
www.penbh.com
(650) 308-9215 View (650) 308-9215

See more therapy options for Palo Alto

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Palo Alto?

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.