Support Groups in Temecula, CA

Welcome to our practice of dedicated mental health providers! Supporting fellow humans is at the core of our mission. Life's storms can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost. Here, you'll find a safe haven where we comprehend the complexities of your struggles. Our therapists excel in navigating the turbulent tides and guiding you to calmer shores. Therapy is our passion, and we're eager to accompany you on your journey. Seek refuge and discover the strength to surf life's storms with us by your side. Let's meet and embark on this transformative process together!
Photo of Christopher Figueroa, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Hosted by Christopher Figueroa
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92592
Welcome to our practice of dedicated mental health providers! Supporting fellow humans is at the core of our mission. Life's storms can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost. Here, you'll find a safe haven where we comprehend the complexities of your struggles. Our therapists excel in navigating the turbulent tides and guiding you to calmer shores. Therapy is our passion, and we're eager to accompany you on your journey. Seek refuge and discover the strength to surf life's storms with us by your side. Let's meet and embark on this transformative process together!
(951) 723-9712 View (951) 723-9712
Parenting teens or young adults who abuse drugs can be one of the most challenging times of our lives. Parents often feel isolated, angry, confused, guilty and wander if they are making the right decisions. A group process can help by providing professional guidance along with input from other parents who are experiencing similar difficulties.
Photo of Sylvia M Ybarra - Anxiety & Infidelity, Sylvia Ybarra MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Anxiety & Infidelity, Sylvia Ybarra MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92591
Parenting teens or young adults who abuse drugs can be one of the most challenging times of our lives. Parents often feel isolated, angry, confused, guilty and wander if they are making the right decisions. A group process can help by providing professional guidance along with input from other parents who are experiencing similar difficulties.
(951) 852-1870 View (951) 852-1870
Meets online/ for women who want high quality, healthy relationships. You will learn tools you to: Elevate &maintain healthy self-esteem - (be a confident Woman who knows your worth and feels deserving of all the good things in life). Get and sustain healthy, lasting relationships - (know how to create and keep a deep sense of closeness with the one you love). Peacefully resolve conflict - (learn to speak in a way that creates calmness). Communicate assertively & set healthy boundaries - (release the need to people-please so you can say "No" when you want to, know that what you need is important, and get what you want).
Photo of Paula Parra - Peace of Wisdom Therapy- Paula Parra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Peace of Wisdom Therapy- Paula Parra, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
Meets online/ for women who want high quality, healthy relationships. You will learn tools you to: Elevate &maintain healthy self-esteem - (be a confident Woman who knows your worth and feels deserving of all the good things in life). Get and sustain healthy, lasting relationships - (know how to create and keep a deep sense of closeness with the one you love). Peacefully resolve conflict - (learn to speak in a way that creates calmness). Communicate assertively & set healthy boundaries - (release the need to people-please so you can say "No" when you want to, know that what you need is important, and get what you want).
(310) 627-2847 View (310) 627-2847
You may have found me because you were accused or charged with domestic violence and are ordered to complete the Batterer’s Intervention & Prevention Program (BIPP). I can help you to complete the program and will walk with you through the whole 52 weeks. I am here to help any one in need of completing this program. I have various group times and groups and offer some individual classes. I am BIPP certified through the courts and can provide documentation if needed. If you know that the relationship patterns you have are unhealthy or toxic then come join a group.
Photo of Lindsey J Ritter-Ingorvaia - Empowered Path Clinical Counseling, PC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CBTF, CAMS
Hosted by Empowered Path Clinical Counseling, PC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, CBTF, CAMS
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92592
You may have found me because you were accused or charged with domestic violence and are ordered to complete the Batterer’s Intervention & Prevention Program (BIPP). I can help you to complete the program and will walk with you through the whole 52 weeks. I am here to help any one in need of completing this program. I have various group times and groups and offer some individual classes. I am BIPP certified through the courts and can provide documentation if needed. If you know that the relationship patterns you have are unhealthy or toxic then come join a group.
(951) 944-2689 View (951) 944-2689
Many individuals are struggling (especially those with addictive tendencies) with exactly what is meant by spiritual development. Using materials from Carl Jung, Thomas Merton and many others, what is meant by spiritual developed and explored.
Photo of Stephen Thomas Prystash, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Stephen Thomas Prystash
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
Many individuals are struggling (especially those with addictive tendencies) with exactly what is meant by spiritual development. Using materials from Carl Jung, Thomas Merton and many others, what is meant by spiritual developed and explored.
(951) 638-3936 View (951) 638-3936
First of all, we are so sorry that you've experienced this loss . We and so many women in similar situations all over the world grieve with you and want to remind you that no matter how you feel, the truth is that this is not your fault. Experiencing a pregnancy loss means that you are probably feeling more sadness than you ever thought possible. Having a miscarriage can be very difficult. The emotional impact usually takes longer to heal than the physical recovery does. Allowing yourself to grieve the loss can help you come to accept it over time.
Photo of Chrissy Kortenhoeven, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
Hosted by Chrissy Kortenhoeven
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
First of all, we are so sorry that you've experienced this loss . We and so many women in similar situations all over the world grieve with you and want to remind you that no matter how you feel, the truth is that this is not your fault. Experiencing a pregnancy loss means that you are probably feeling more sadness than you ever thought possible. Having a miscarriage can be very difficult. The emotional impact usually takes longer to heal than the physical recovery does. Allowing yourself to grieve the loss can help you come to accept it over time.
(951) 382-5430 View (951) 382-5430
Contact office for information on individual sessions. Sessions are designed to equip you with the tools to respond appropriately. Some of the topics that will be covered are understanding anger, anger-triggering thoughts, quick tips to cooling down anger, communication skills, and setting boundaries. Volunteers and court-mandated are welcome. For more information click on the website.
Photo of Nicolette A Leflore - C3 Christ Centered Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, BCPCC, CAMS-II
Hosted by C3 Christ Centered Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, BCPCC, CAMS-II
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
Contact office for information on individual sessions. Sessions are designed to equip you with the tools to respond appropriately. Some of the topics that will be covered are understanding anger, anger-triggering thoughts, quick tips to cooling down anger, communication skills, and setting boundaries. Volunteers and court-mandated are welcome. For more information click on the website.
(951) 476-2708 View (951) 476-2708
This group is specifically for women who are the partners of those who have a sexual addiction. We will have both an educational piece and support system for those whom are experiencing trauma from being with a partner who has a sexual addiction. This will be a smaller group with 5-6 members and will be a closed group.
Photo of Michelle Cruz McKay, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Michelle Cruz McKay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
This group is specifically for women who are the partners of those who have a sexual addiction. We will have both an educational piece and support system for those whom are experiencing trauma from being with a partner who has a sexual addiction. This will be a smaller group with 5-6 members and will be a closed group.
(951) 468-3120 View (951) 468-3120
Welcome to our practice of dedicated mental health providers! Supporting fellow humans is at the core of our mission. Life's storms can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost. Here, you'll find a safe haven where we comprehend the complexities of your struggles. Our therapists excel in navigating the turbulent tides and guiding you to calmer shores. Therapy is our passion, and we're eager to accompany you on your journey. Seek refuge and discover the strength to surf life's storms with us by your side. Let's meet and travel on this transformative process together!
Photo of Jennifer Hyatt, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Jennifer Hyatt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92592
Welcome to our practice of dedicated mental health providers! Supporting fellow humans is at the core of our mission. Life's storms can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost. Here, you'll find a safe haven where we comprehend the complexities of your struggles. Our therapists excel in navigating the turbulent tides and guiding you to calmer shores. Therapy is our passion, and we're eager to accompany you on your journey. Seek refuge and discover the strength to surf life's storms with us by your side. Let's meet and travel on this transformative process together!
(951) 744-9145 View (951) 744-9145
I am currently accepting applications for parents/caregivers who want support as they navigate the world of having a child on the spectrum. Addressing the hardships, loss/grieving, fears, and accepting process of having a child or children on the spectrum. This group is focused on creating support for one another and processing the emotions involved. Please don't walk this journey alone and call to inquire on reserving your spot. Currently taking applications.
Photo of Sarah Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Hosted by Sarah Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
I am currently accepting applications for parents/caregivers who want support as they navigate the world of having a child on the spectrum. Addressing the hardships, loss/grieving, fears, and accepting process of having a child or children on the spectrum. This group is focused on creating support for one another and processing the emotions involved. Please don't walk this journey alone and call to inquire on reserving your spot. Currently taking applications.
(951) 350-1098 View (951) 350-1098
In this workshop you will learn tools to help turn your child's defiance into self-reliance. You will gain a better understanding of why your child behaves in certain ways and how you have the power to change those behaviors through positive discipline. You will also learn effective ways to help your child develop important life skills and characteristics. More info can be found on the website: http://www.healthyfamilybeginnings.com or get upcoming event details on Facebook by searching: Parenting with Positive Discipline- Temecula Valley.
Photo of Amanda Vadney, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CLE
Hosted by Amanda Vadney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CLE
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
In this workshop you will learn tools to help turn your child's defiance into self-reliance. You will gain a better understanding of why your child behaves in certain ways and how you have the power to change those behaviors through positive discipline. You will also learn effective ways to help your child develop important life skills and characteristics. More info can be found on the website: http://www.healthyfamilybeginnings.com or get upcoming event details on Facebook by searching: Parenting with Positive Discipline- Temecula Valley.
(951) 639-8263 View (951) 639-8263
By Invitation Only. Client must be in Recovery for Sexual Addiction weekly.
Photo of Tracy D Tacquard, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, CMAT-S, EMDR, PIT
Hosted by Tracy D Tacquard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, CMAT-S, EMDR, PIT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
By Invitation Only. Client must be in Recovery for Sexual Addiction weekly.
(682) 260-6918 View (682) 260-6918
Are you ready for 2019? With the turn of a new year, there is a lot of focus on getting into physical shape, working those holiday pounds off.. At Renewed Hope Counseling we are passionate about helping you get into shape not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well. Sign up for one of our 6 week boot camps to start the year off right: Social Skills (teens), Pre-marital, and Parenting, Grief and Loss.
Photo of Tania Mclean-Nicholas, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Hosted by Tania Mclean-Nicholas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
Are you ready for 2019? With the turn of a new year, there is a lot of focus on getting into physical shape, working those holiday pounds off.. At Renewed Hope Counseling we are passionate about helping you get into shape not just physically but mentally and emotionally as well. Sign up for one of our 6 week boot camps to start the year off right: Social Skills (teens), Pre-marital, and Parenting, Grief and Loss.
(951) 432-5313 View (951) 432-5313
Bienvenido/a! Soy Psicóloga con experiencia en terapia individual, de familia, pareja, y niños. Ofresco terapias para la gran mayoría de los problemas psicológicos: depresión, ansiedad, estrés, problemas familiares, y conflicto de pareja. Soy dedicada en mi trabajo con mis clientes y me esfuerzo por ofrecer un ambiente seguro y calido. Si le gustaría hacer una cita, favor de ponerse en contacto conmigo y juntos exploraremos el cambio que busca.
Photo of Dr. Martha Ruiz-Shank, Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Hosted by Dr. Martha Ruiz-Shank
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92591
Bienvenido/a! Soy Psicóloga con experiencia en terapia individual, de familia, pareja, y niños. Ofresco terapias para la gran mayoría de los problemas psicológicos: depresión, ansiedad, estrés, problemas familiares, y conflicto de pareja. Soy dedicada en mi trabajo con mis clientes y me esfuerzo por ofrecer un ambiente seguro y calido. Si le gustaría hacer una cita, favor de ponerse en contacto conmigo y juntos exploraremos el cambio que busca.
(951) 309-9746 View (951) 309-9746
Redefine and strengthen the mother/daughter relationship during the daughter’s adolescent years. Adolescence is a confusing time for mothers and daughters as the daughter begins to pull away from her mother. The transition from dependence upon parents to reliance on “self” is a normal stage of adolescent development. As daughters struggle to differentiate themselves and find their independence, it seems as if they push their mothers away even further. However, daughters need their mothers even more during adolescence, just in a different way! Learn ways to communicate, strengthen the mother/daughter bond, and stay connected during this transition time.
Photo of Kelly Lynn Wheeler, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Hosted by Kelly Lynn Wheeler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92591
Redefine and strengthen the mother/daughter relationship during the daughter’s adolescent years. Adolescence is a confusing time for mothers and daughters as the daughter begins to pull away from her mother. The transition from dependence upon parents to reliance on “self” is a normal stage of adolescent development. As daughters struggle to differentiate themselves and find their independence, it seems as if they push their mothers away even further. However, daughters need their mothers even more during adolescence, just in a different way! Learn ways to communicate, strengthen the mother/daughter bond, and stay connected during this transition time.
(951) 438-7958 View (951) 438-7958
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) offers structured support for emotional regulation, stress coping, and improved relationships. The six session program covers various DBT skills, ultimately aiming to promote healing and reclaiming a sense of self-control. Do you experience extreme or up-and-down emotions? Is it difficult to manage your emotions effectively? Are you wanting to feel more in control of your emotions? In this Emotional Regulation Skills Group you will learn how to: Understand Your Emotions, Identify and Label Emotions, Reduce Emotional Vulnerability, Tolerate Intense Emotions, Increase Positive Emotions, and Build Emotional Resilience.
Photo of Taylor Wikel, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Taylor Wikel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) offers structured support for emotional regulation, stress coping, and improved relationships. The six session program covers various DBT skills, ultimately aiming to promote healing and reclaiming a sense of self-control. Do you experience extreme or up-and-down emotions? Is it difficult to manage your emotions effectively? Are you wanting to feel more in control of your emotions? In this Emotional Regulation Skills Group you will learn how to: Understand Your Emotions, Identify and Label Emotions, Reduce Emotional Vulnerability, Tolerate Intense Emotions, Increase Positive Emotions, and Build Emotional Resilience.
(951) 386-2317 View (951) 386-2317
The group is designed for individuals with passionate spirits and firm beliefs who want personal growth toward self-love and improving relationships with others. You will learn to live a life "worth living" by managing emotions in a compassionate, loving, and responsible manner. If this sounds like you or someone has expressed concern about how you manage your emotions, please give yourself a chance for positive change and allow us to show you the dialectical behavioral approach to reach your goals. The group consists of an initial consultation, 10 Online structured meetings, personal commitment or homework after each meeting.
Photo of Griselda J Tuchan Pineda - Cognitive Behavioral Services, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MPA, PsyD, LMFT
Hosted by Cognitive Behavioral Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MPA, PsyD, LMFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
The group is designed for individuals with passionate spirits and firm beliefs who want personal growth toward self-love and improving relationships with others. You will learn to live a life "worth living" by managing emotions in a compassionate, loving, and responsible manner. If this sounds like you or someone has expressed concern about how you manage your emotions, please give yourself a chance for positive change and allow us to show you the dialectical behavioral approach to reach your goals. The group consists of an initial consultation, 10 Online structured meetings, personal commitment or homework after each meeting.
(323) 402-5655 View (323) 402-5655
Storm Haven Counseling & Wellness is a private group practice offering compassionate, personalized mental health care. Our skilled therapists provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy, both in-person and via teletherapy. We specialize in anxiety, trauma, depression, and life transitions, supporting diverse populations, including LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse clients. Our warm, welcoming environment promotes peace and comfort, encouraging clients to explore their strengths. Our practitioners engage with the community and pursue professional development to ensure high-quality care. At Storm Haven, we guide you on your path to mental wellness with resilience and authenticity.
Photo of Britney Ann Smith, Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Hosted by Britney Ann Smith
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92591
Storm Haven Counseling & Wellness is a private group practice offering compassionate, personalized mental health care. Our skilled therapists provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy, both in-person and via teletherapy. We specialize in anxiety, trauma, depression, and life transitions, supporting diverse populations, including LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse clients. Our warm, welcoming environment promotes peace and comfort, encouraging clients to explore their strengths. Our practitioners engage with the community and pursue professional development to ensure high-quality care. At Storm Haven, we guide you on your path to mental wellness with resilience and authenticity.
(951) 612-9755 View (951) 612-9755
Welcome to our practice of dedicated mental health providers! Supporting fellow humans is at the core of our mission. Life's storms can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost. Here, you'll find a safe haven where we comprehend the complexities of your struggles. Our therapists excel in navigating the turbulent tides and guiding you to calmer shores. Therapy is our passion, and we're eager to accompany you on your journey. Seek refuge and discover the strength to surf life's storms with us by your side. Let's meet and embark on this transformative process together!
Photo of Marinna Hartwick, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Hosted by Marinna Hartwick
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92591
Welcome to our practice of dedicated mental health providers! Supporting fellow humans is at the core of our mission. Life's storms can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling lost. Here, you'll find a safe haven where we comprehend the complexities of your struggles. Our therapists excel in navigating the turbulent tides and guiding you to calmer shores. Therapy is our passion, and we're eager to accompany you on your journey. Seek refuge and discover the strength to surf life's storms with us by your side. Let's meet and embark on this transformative process together!
(909) 765-0926 View (909) 765-0926
This group is designed to empower pre- teens by providing a supportive space to explore and build essential life skills. Through engaging activities and discussions, participants will work on boosting self-esteem, managing intense emotions, and learning healthy stress management techniques. The group focuses on equipping teens with tools for effective communication, helping them express themselves clearly and confidently in all areas of life. GROUP STARTS JUNE 2nd @ 3:30-5pm. Please contact Mallory at (909) 742.0081. Please text me with information and a good time to call you.
Photo of Mallory Joye Thysell, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, ART
Hosted by Mallory Joye Thysell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, ART
Group meets in Temecula, CA 92590
This group is designed to empower pre- teens by providing a supportive space to explore and build essential life skills. Through engaging activities and discussions, participants will work on boosting self-esteem, managing intense emotions, and learning healthy stress management techniques. The group focuses on equipping teens with tools for effective communication, helping them express themselves clearly and confidently in all areas of life. GROUP STARTS JUNE 2nd @ 3:30-5pm. Please contact Mallory at (909) 742.0081. Please text me with information and a good time to call you.
(951) 433-1998 View (951) 433-1998

See more therapy options for Temecula

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Temecula?

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.