Support Groups in San Diego, CA

8-week exploration for women in their 20s. Join a welcoming circle where young women support each other through life’s transitions. Share experiences, develop new skills, and build confidence in a space designed for authentic connection and personal growth. What You’ll Gain: Tools for setting healthy boundaries, Confidence in relationships and decision-making, Social media and self-image balance, Lasting connections with peers. Program Details: 8 weekly virtual sessions (90 minutes each). Small group setting (4-8 participants). Investment: $225 total, sliding scale available. Convenient and secure online format. Fill out our interest form: https://forms.gle/j8LtjKd5NvapTYom7
Photo of Carolina Lima Leal, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hosted by Carolina Lima Leal
Pre-Licensed Professional
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92108
Taking the first step in your mental health journey can feel both courageous and overwhelming, and I want you to know you’re not alone. As a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee at the Center for Mental Health Excellence (CFMHE), I’m here to walk alongside you with care, compassion, and curiosity. I approach each session with empathy, respect, and an unconditional belief in your ability to overcome and thrive. Whether you're navigating relationship struggles, family dynamics, or preparing for a life transition, I’m here to help you find clarity and connection. Supporting your growth is my favorite part of my work!
(619) 389-3198 View (619) 389-3198
For the past 30 years Help Therapy mental health provider partners have been able to assist members of our communities in a rather unique way, opening the doors to mental health services for a large number of individuals, couples, and families. Help Therapy mental health provider partners offers mental health counseling and psychological evaluations services in the home, facility, in an office setting, or via telehealth.
Photo of Annette Conway - #1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by #1 Psychological Evaluations & Testing Service
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92103
Established in 1993, Help Therapy features over 50 licensed neuropsychologists and psychologists for comprehensive evaluations, and over 100 LCSWs, LMFTs, and NPs offering therapy and medication management. Patients are carefully matched with providers suited to their unique needs and preferences. Our experienced clinicians serve seniors, adults, families, couples and youth (age 7+) across California, ensuring personalized care for a diverse range of psychological needs.
(619) 815-7016 View (619) 815-7016
Photo of Ashlee Bolt, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Hosted by Ashlee Bolt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92106
(858) 280-2985 View (858) 280-2985
Transitioning from intensive outpatient treatment can be challenging—our 12-week addiction aftercare group provides ongoing support to strengthen recovery and build resilience. With flexible, self-contained sessions, this group is perfect for anyone seeking to maintain sobriety, develop coping strategies, and foster a healthy lifestyle. Topics include relapse prevention, emotional regulation, building support networks, managing stress, and finding purpose. Whether you're looking to refine life skills, rebuild relationships, or establish long-term goals, this group offers a welcoming, supportive environment to help you thrive in recovery. Join anytime and start your journey to sustained wellness today.
Photo of J.m. Evosevich - LifeMark Behavioral Health, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CADC, BCBA, RN
Hosted by LifeMark Behavioral Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CADC, BCBA, RN
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92108
Empowering You to Thrive! Welcome to Lifemark Behavioral Health! Life can be tough, and we get that. At Lifemark Behavioral Health, we're here to help you find balance and well-being. Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore your feelings and emotions, gain valuable insights, and develop the tools you need to handle life's challenges. Together, we'll help you discover your inner strength and potential for positive change. Our Values At Lifemark Behavioral Health, we are guided by the following values: Integrity, Honesty & Authenticity: We believe in being genuine and truthful in all our interactions.
(619) 404-2623 View (619) 404-2623
Writing groups for consultation with mental health professionals and writing to learn about yourself.
Photo of Caroline de Pottel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Hosted by Caroline de Pottel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92122
I use an in-depth focus that has a practical application. I understand past and present difficulties within the context of family relationships. I think of each person as dynamic and changeable. When a person comes to me for help, I understand that person to be stuck in ways that are out of their conscious awareness. Work and/or relationship functioning can easily be blocked or limited. Changing is complex and requires the assistance of a skilled and caring professional. If you are ready to face the deeper issues interfering with your personal success, it is time to contact me.
(858) 997-1799 View (858) 997-1799
WSI has several clinicians with various specialties who each value genuineness with their patients. Clinicians in the group can consult with each other as needed to serve particular patients needs. Therapy groups are available on an interest basis.
Photo of Candace Fanale, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Candace Fanale
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92117
I specialize in general clinical psychology (various anxiety and mood disorders), health psychology, and evidence-based practice. I use cognitive behavioral therapy with a collaborate approach. At the beginning of treatment, we work toward figuring out what isn’t working for you and how to initially get you some symptom relief. I value getting to know you and your thoughts, beliefs, and coping strategies. I help you find ways to cope that are more effective. I strive for genuine relationships with my clients at any stage of adulthood where we can discuss issues openly. You are included in treatment-related decisions.
(619) 737-3935 View (619) 737-3935
Weekly professionally facilitated outpatient group psychotherapy is an essential aspect of treatment and healing for men with Out of Control Sexual Behavior. A central skill for sexual health and Out of Control Sexual Behavior recovery is to regain control of sexual behavior, strengthen relationships and confidently learn and maintain a personal vision of sexual health. Group assessment prior to selection for group membership is required. All group members must attend individual therapy with a therapist of their choice throughout group membership. Group size maximum 8 members.
Photo of Douglas Braun-Harvey, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CST, CST-S
Hosted by Douglas Braun-Harvey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CST, CST-S
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92108
How do I know if my sexual behavior is out of control? For many men this question is very subjective and they unfortunately wait for a spouse, loved one or their employer to discover their hidden sexual life before considering help. At The Harvey Institute we believe the most important person to evaluate his personal conflict with regulating sexual behavior is the man experiencing the dilemma. We help men contemplate "What is your conflict with your sexual behavior?" and "What is your vision for your sexual health?" We strive to provide a safe, sexually informed and confidential space for sexual health conversations.
(619) 964-8288 View (619) 964-8288
Dr. Mann offers a 3 hour parenting skills workshop called Child-Adult Relationship Enhancement (CARE). CARE involves learning positive parenting skills for interacting with children and teens. Parents learn and practice ways to connect with children, support social-emotional learning, give effective directions, and address mild problematic behaviors. Workshops meet by Zoom.
Photo of Dr. Andrea Mann, Psychiatrist, DO
Hosted by Dr. Andrea Mann
Psychiatrist, DO
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92122
I'm a psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience who provides psychotherapy as well as medication when indicated. I have a special interest in helping individuals with anxiety disorders, difficulty with professional and personal relationships, and those going through life transitions. I have an open, integrative approach with experience working with a wide range of ages, disorders, and cultural backgrounds.
(858) 923-4769 View (858) 923-4769
Mild TBI/Post-Concussive Education/Support Group (free). Any person with a history of mild TBI/concussion may attend this group. This support group will take place on the first Monday of each month from 6PM-7:30PM. Attendees may attend virtually or in person. Link will be posted closer to the date of the first group. The first group will meet on February 6, 2023. The topics of each group will be posted the week before. Topics will include Headaches, Sleep, Mood Changes (Depression/Anxiety), Social Communication, Cognitive Strategies, Community Resources/Referrals. Contact Dr. Green at cgreen@empowerneurorehab.com.
Photo of Dr. Chloe Green, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Dr. Chloe Green
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92126
CGreen Psychology, Inc offers a comprehensive range of specialized services, including neuropsychological evaluation, cognitive rehabilitation, and psychoeducational evaluations for ADHD and Learning Disabilities. Led by Dr. Green, a seasoned professional with expertise in the treatment of adults and adolescents dealing with Traumatic Brain Injury, and other Neurological and Neurodevelopmental Disorders. At CGreen Psychology Inc, the main objective is to empower clients by optimizing their physical, cognitive, and emotional functions, all while ensuring that interventions align with the client's personal goals.
(858) 330-0747 View (858) 330-0747
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) provides DBT skills training groups that provide skills to decrease anxiety, depression, and feeling out of control. DBT also helps to increase communication skills and decrease relationship issues. Call or email PEP today for more information - 619.787.6676 - www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. If you're having a hard time communicating effectively with other people, controlling high intensity emotions, or just existing comfortably, DBT can help. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) helps to decrease depression, anxiety, addictions, mood disorders, emotional eating, impulse control disorders, personality disorders, self harm & suicidal behaviors. Call or email PEP today for more information!
Photo of Sue Boyd - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, LMFT
Hosted by Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD, LMFT
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92108
Is excessive worry or sadness limiting your life? Do you want to feel better and live a life worth living? Helping our clients overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, panic, excessive worry & depression is our primary focus. By using proven therapy methods (We are Dialectical Behavior Therapy - DBT specialists) we will focus on specific problems, solutions, skills & reachable goals. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) provides DBT skills training groups that provide skills to decrease anxiety, depression, and feeling out of control. DBT also helps to increase communication skills and decrease relationship issues. Call or email PEP today for more information - 619.787.6676 - www.PersonalEvolutionPsychotherapy.com. If you're having a hard time communicating effectively with other people, controlling high intensity emotions, or just existing comfortably, DBT can help. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) helps to decrease depression, anxiety, addictions, mood disorders, emotional eating, impulse control disorders, personality disorders, self harm & suicidal behaviors. Call or email PEP today for more information!
Photo of Kira Sweetlove - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Hosted by Kira Sweetlove - Personal Evolution Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92108
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed out or sad to the point that you can't live the life you want? Do you want to feel better & have a life worth living? Personal Evolution Psychotherapy (PEP) is a team of therapists that use Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) to overcome social anxiety, depression, communication & relationship issues, family conflict, panic, excessive worry & depression. We provide much more than traditional talk therapy & help you get results to help control your emotions & your life. By doing this we can help more quickly.
(619) 787-6676 View (619) 787-6676
One of the best ways to destress, connect to yourself and build better relationships with others is to slow down and set some time for to create. This group is set in a gallery and sacred indegenous space in the creative and dynamic neighborhood of Logan Heights and uses art therapy and multidiciplinary materials to facilitated the exploration and processing of overwhelming feelings by finding coping skills within the art process. No art experience necessary.
Photo of Berenice Vazquez Badillo, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC
Hosted by Berenice Vazquez Badillo
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92113
Sometimes it becomes challenging managing the ebb and flow of life and we become isolated, stressed and overwhelmed. Our past wounds always seem to sneak up on us when we least expect. Life transitions can be difficult in that they take much adjustment and effort. There is such a pressing need to invest in yourself and in the building of healthy relationships. You need to spark the parts of yourself that harnests vitality and make life worth living. Investing in your mental health can reveal solutions as well as provide you skills that will last a lifetime. Whatever your need we can work together to find solutions.
(619) 340-0529 View (619) 340-0529
This is a curriculum-based group for individuals undergoing immigration proceedings or whose loved ones are involved in an immigration process. Please call the office for more information or to sign up.
Photo of Mariela G Shibley, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Mariela G Shibley
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92101
People who consider psychotherapy are typically searching not only for specific expertise but also the kind of relationship that will allow them to let their guard down and engage in self-exploration. The best therapy is done when the patient and therapist have a strong working relationship. I truly care about my patients and I work collaboratively with them to help them increase their self-awareness and enhance the quality of their lives. As a bilingual psychologist, I specialize in acculturation and immigration issues, including conducting psychological evaluations for immigration court and criminal defense.
(619) 900-4189 View (619) 900-4189
I facilitate a Men's group that supports each man in their quest to live their lives with integrity and passion. This gathering of men has been going on for 8 years now, and the men support each other, learn from each other, compassionately challenge each other, etc. The Men's group is psycho-dynamic, psycho-educational, and experiential too; men often participate in psycho-drama, NLP patterns and techniques, visualization, meditation, mindfulness exercises, etc. It's been am amazing journey working with each man who has participated in our circle, and I feel so blessed to have these men in my life.
Photo of John Brandeis Boesky, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Hosted by John Brandeis Boesky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92116
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Master NLP Practitioner, IFS Practitioner, Dharma Life Coach, and Sports Psychology Consultant, I LOVE my profession; my work is my passion! I feel deeply fulfilled when my support and guidance empowers my clients to achieve their goals and desired outcomes. I offer my clients my engaged presence, insights, intuition, knowledge, transformative tools and techniques, and resources to generate lots of momentum as they endeavor to grow and live their best lives. So if you’re seeking out a seasoned guide with a warm lantern to walk beside you on your heroic journey, please give me a call!!
(619) 378-4512 View (619) 378-4512
Grief is the natural reaction to loss. Grief is both a universal and a personal experience. This is a support group for those who have experienced personal losses. Participants will explore, within a trusting and nurturing environment, their reactions to loss, learn about the grieving process, develop strategies for coping and begin to integrate this change into their lives in order to move forward. We will explore topics such as the stages of grief, common grief reactions, myths about grieving and moving forward.
Photo of Aimee Cornelius Pearson, Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Hosted by Aimee Cornelius Pearson
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92110
I help individuals work on life issues tied to anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, stress symptoms tied to childhood trauma, and families struggling with behavioral challenges. I teach communication skills that help with difficult relationships. These skills include helping my clients improve their power, voice, and contact with significant others. I lead groups that provide a safe environment to help heal emotional pain and teach new ways of relating to others. I employ many approaches in psychotherapy, including psychodynamic, gestalt, somatic experiencing, EMDR, Pesso-Boyden and cognitive behavioral. I offer testing and assessment for ADHD, PTSD and relational attachment issues.
(619) 456-0259 View (619) 456-0259
If you're dealing with Sexually compulsive behaviors and can't seem to stop, a group could be the best thing for you. I focus on utilizing the best treatment tools available and the support you need to help you move past your addictive behaviors. You'll get to interact with people who need help just like you. By listening to others and learning from their experiences and reactions, you get the help you need to recover from your sexual addiction. This is for men who are further along in their recovery looking for long term support, accountability and expert help.
Photo of Andrew Last - Oasis Counseling Group, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Hosted by Oasis Counseling Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92108
Does your sexuality feel out of control? Are you struggling to control compulsive sexual behaviors? We can help. Oasis Counseling has five Certified Sexual Addiction Therapists (CSAT) who can help you break free of these painful behaviors. Additionally, we specialize in betrayal trauma, couples therapy, trauma therapy using EMDR, anxiety disorders and depression. We perform both and individual, family and group therapy. Our staff works with clients of all ages and are there to help you. Reach out today to our intake coordinator to find the which therapist is the right fit for you.
(619) 346-4433 View (619) 346-4433
Are you ready to overcome the limiting beliefs, excuses and fears that inhibit you and your creative process? Are you eager to allow yourself the creative and personal breakthroughs that you know are possible? You're never too old, too poor, or have too little time to be the artist, painter, sculptor, guitarist, singer, dancer you are truly destined to be. Whether you are a professional artist or new to exploring your creativity, you are welcome at our Artist Way Circle. Together we will nurture your heart, mind, and creativity, wherever you are on your journey.
Photo of Jenny Vosacek, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Jenny Vosacek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92108
I believe in you. You’ve made it here, which means you’ve already taken action for change. Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered on your path to well being. You do not need to be on this journey alone. As a therapist, my goal is to understand your goals as deeply as possible. This will mean changing the way you think, feel, and act on a daily basis. Over time you'll develop useful strategies to modify your thoughts and behaviors. We will know our work is done when you are thriving in the life that you envision. You will take our work with you after we end and reap the benefits throughout your life.
(619) 664-4742 View (619) 664-4742
I offer a 6-week online group treatment program for individuals suffering from insomnia. This is based on CBT-I, the only proven long-term treatment protocol for insomnia endorsed by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. I have new groups starting regularly so check out my website or email me to get more info or be added to the waitlist!
Photo of Dr. Candice Seti, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Dr. Candice Seti
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92101
WINNER: Best Weight Loss Counseling Program 2023! I specialize in working with individuals struggling with weight loss and weight management. I provide an alternative strategy to weight loss based on cognitive therapy that allows people to change their life and their relationship with food, instead of just dieting. Treatment focuses on emotional eating, restructuring routines, and utilizing self-talk to help instead of sabotage. As a licensed personal training, I am also able to provide customized workout programs for clients to coincide with their weight management program. No more dieting! Learn more at www.MeOnlyBetter.com
(619) 452-1098 View (619) 452-1098
Photo of Chris Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MedFT, C-DBT
Hosted by Chris Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MedFT, C-DBT
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92127
(858) 330-4517 View (858) 330-4517
Transcendelic’s mission is transcendence through psychedelic experiences. We host a variety of holistic wellness retreats utilizing ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Ketamine is a legal psychedelic medicine that pairs well with psychotherapy in conjunction with a safe and compassionate space and time for healing. Depending on the setting, we incorporate other modalities for healing body, mind, and spirit.
Photo of Amy Milroy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Hosted by Amy Milroy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN
Group meets in San Diego, CA 92117
You deserve help, and I'm glad you're here! You may be experiencing ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, OCD, substance use, or other concerns, and you are seeking wellness. Appointments with me provide customized blends of medicine and therapy. I have special expertise in PTSD and CPTSD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Through my practice Phoenix Era Wellness, I offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP), regular psychiatric medication management, and general trauma-informed therapy in person in SoCal and via telehealth throughout CA, IL, and NM. With my team I provide KAP in holistic retreat settings in CA.
(858) 252-0529 View (858) 252-0529
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FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in San Diego?

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.