Support Groups in Denver, CO

At Higher Sights Counseling we have a team of dedicated and trained psychotherapists who specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse. Our therapists use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and a combination of many more researched-based approaches specified for your unique needs. Visit us today at HigherSightsCounseling.com to learn more!
Photo of Lindsay Bishop - Higher Sights Counseling (Accepting New Clients!), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Higher Sights Counseling (Accepting New Clients!)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Denver, CO 80211
At Higher Sights Counseling we have a team of dedicated and trained psychotherapists who specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse. Our therapists use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, the Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and a combination of many more researched-based approaches specified for your unique needs. Visit us today at HigherSightsCounseling.com to learn more!
(720) 340-5881 View (720) 340-5881
Our groups are for those looking for additional support outside of individual therapy or as a step down from a higher level of care (IOP). Group sessions consist of discussion around DBT coping skills and various other special topics, such as attachment style, mental health and money, relationships, and boundaries. The groups are small (capped at 8 clients) and meet weekly for 90 minutes.
Photo of Jonah Shuman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Jonah Shuman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Denver, CO 80210
Our groups are for those looking for additional support outside of individual therapy or as a step down from a higher level of care (IOP). Group sessions consist of discussion around DBT coping skills and various other special topics, such as attachment style, mental health and money, relationships, and boundaries. The groups are small (capped at 8 clients) and meet weekly for 90 minutes.
(303) 952-8041 View (303) 952-8041
The Reflective Parenting model introduces an approach to parenting that aims to promote family relationships and reduces parent-child conflicts. Parents can expect to develop a better understanding of their child’s emotions and behaviors, helping the child to feel both understood and of value. The approach also helps to de-escalate difficult situations and reduces behavioral and emotional outbursts. Reflective Parenting is a model of parenting based on theoretical ideas from mentalization – the ability of a parent to understand the thoughts, feelings and intentions behind the behavior of both themselves and their child.
Photo of Elena V. Dvoskina, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Elena V. Dvoskina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Denver, CO 80230
The Reflective Parenting model introduces an approach to parenting that aims to promote family relationships and reduces parent-child conflicts. Parents can expect to develop a better understanding of their child’s emotions and behaviors, helping the child to feel both understood and of value. The approach also helps to de-escalate difficult situations and reduces behavioral and emotional outbursts. Reflective Parenting is a model of parenting based on theoretical ideas from mentalization – the ability of a parent to understand the thoughts, feelings and intentions behind the behavior of both themselves and their child.
(720) 706-2526 View (720) 706-2526
The role of parenting is hard enough even when you can count on the biological connection and love from a child. But what about when you’re joining the family in a step-parent role? Where is the manual for that? Whether you're adding your own biological kids to the family, having marriage challenges around parenting styles and roles, or dealing with the effects of a high conflict &/or abusive biological parent, or anything regarding blending, consider joining for an opportunity to connect with and support other individuals who share a similar journey and experience in this unique role.
Photo of Olivia Woodring, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC, CNHP
Hosted by Olivia Woodring
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC, CNHP
Group meets in Denver, CO 80210
The role of parenting is hard enough even when you can count on the biological connection and love from a child. But what about when you’re joining the family in a step-parent role? Where is the manual for that? Whether you're adding your own biological kids to the family, having marriage challenges around parenting styles and roles, or dealing with the effects of a high conflict &/or abusive biological parent, or anything regarding blending, consider joining for an opportunity to connect with and support other individuals who share a similar journey and experience in this unique role.
(720) 575-1670 View (720) 575-1670
This is a group for adults who are suffering from depression, anxiety, or relationship issues. Process group therapy offers a safe, interpersonal, and dynamic environment where each group member could share and gain insight into their emotional and relationship struggles by interacting with other members and the group's leader. Please note that process groups are different from support groups. If you'd like to watch a process group in action, please search "Group, Season 1, Episode 1" on YouTube.
Photo of Larry K Mortazavi, Psychiatrist, MD, CGP, FABP
Hosted by Larry K Mortazavi
Psychiatrist, MD, CGP, FABP
Group meets in Denver, CO 80209
This is a group for adults who are suffering from depression, anxiety, or relationship issues. Process group therapy offers a safe, interpersonal, and dynamic environment where each group member could share and gain insight into their emotional and relationship struggles by interacting with other members and the group's leader. Please note that process groups are different from support groups. If you'd like to watch a process group in action, please search "Group, Season 1, Episode 1" on YouTube.
(720) 613-2465 View (720) 613-2465
Rebuilding Seminars has helped thousands begin a new, healthier chapter in life. Our group process is both rapid and effective. It is the antidote to the isolation that can often accompany a relationship’s end. They are offered in both Niwot and Cherry Creek. See our website for the upcoming class schedule www.Rebuildingseminars.com
Photo of Kathy Decker Kahn, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACC, PLLC
Hosted by Kathy Decker Kahn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACC, PLLC
Group meets in Denver, CO 80246
Rebuilding Seminars has helped thousands begin a new, healthier chapter in life. Our group process is both rapid and effective. It is the antidote to the isolation that can often accompany a relationship’s end. They are offered in both Niwot and Cherry Creek. See our website for the upcoming class schedule www.Rebuildingseminars.com
(720) 386-4852 View (720) 386-4852
Are you struggling with social anxiety or lack of social connection? Top psychology research states that humans are wired for social connection and it is, in fact, necessary for our survival. Our society has become more and more disconnected with the rise of technology and an increase in mental health related issues. Although the disconnection has increased, our need for connection remains the same. This is a 6-week group therapy course designed for people to develop communication strategies, reduce negative self-talk and alleviate social anxiety as well as create connection with like-minded others.
Photo of Elyse Dunham Emdr, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Hosted by Elyse Dunham Emdr
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Group meets in Denver, CO 80218
Are you struggling with social anxiety or lack of social connection? Top psychology research states that humans are wired for social connection and it is, in fact, necessary for our survival. Our society has become more and more disconnected with the rise of technology and an increase in mental health related issues. Although the disconnection has increased, our need for connection remains the same. This is a 6-week group therapy course designed for people to develop communication strategies, reduce negative self-talk and alleviate social anxiety as well as create connection with like-minded others.
(720) 815-4867 View (720) 815-4867
This is a six-week closed group starting on April 10th. You'll learn about trauma's impact on our thinking, feeling, and behaviors and how we, on a neurological and body level, heal from trauma. This group will bring a clearer understanding of our actions, reactions, and the path to greater healing. This group is tailored for individuals who resonate with common struggles related to PTSD and relational challenges and desire for deeper healing. This is a closed coed group. $200 up front deposit required. Total group cost: $300 *No deposit or cost for for those with Colorado Medicaid.
Photo of Chelsea Van Essen - Logos Healing Institute, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Logos Healing Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Denver, CO 80210
This is a six-week closed group starting on April 10th. You'll learn about trauma's impact on our thinking, feeling, and behaviors and how we, on a neurological and body level, heal from trauma. This group will bring a clearer understanding of our actions, reactions, and the path to greater healing. This group is tailored for individuals who resonate with common struggles related to PTSD and relational challenges and desire for deeper healing. This is a closed coed group. $200 up front deposit required. Total group cost: $300 *No deposit or cost for for those with Colorado Medicaid.
(303) 622-3919 View (303) 622-3919
Spiritual based group psychotherapy is group therapy with a spiritual grounding. That means that the people who chose to be group members have a belief in a Power greater than themselves that can help them in their process. This group is for people who have done some work, either therapy, spiritual direction, or 12-step work. Myself and Karen Holland, LPC, will be starting a weekly coed group in the next few months (April-May 2022). Please contact myself or Karen if you are interested, limited availability
Photo of John A Otte, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by John A Otte
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Denver, CO 80222
Spiritual based group psychotherapy is group therapy with a spiritual grounding. That means that the people who chose to be group members have a belief in a Power greater than themselves that can help them in their process. This group is for people who have done some work, either therapy, spiritual direction, or 12-step work. Myself and Karen Holland, LPC, will be starting a weekly coed group in the next few months (April-May 2022). Please contact myself or Karen if you are interested, limited availability
(720) 924-4775 View (720) 924-4775
Waitlist for September 2024 is open. Hi! I'm SK Wilder. I'm a licensed therapist and survivor of religious trauma. This group is for adults ages 20+ who have experienced adverse religious experiences and would like to connect with others who have similar experiences. This group will run weekly for 10 weeks. The group structure is to start with a mindfulness practice. Then we will focus on a topic to process and reflect each week. We will end with a closing ritual. Email today to grab your spot for this next group!
Photo of Sarah Kate Wilder, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd, EdS
Hosted by Sarah Kate Wilder
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd, EdS
Group meets in Denver, CO 80223
Waitlist for September 2024 is open. Hi! I'm SK Wilder. I'm a licensed therapist and survivor of religious trauma. This group is for adults ages 20+ who have experienced adverse religious experiences and would like to connect with others who have similar experiences. This group will run weekly for 10 weeks. The group structure is to start with a mindfulness practice. Then we will focus on a topic to process and reflect each week. We will end with a closing ritual. Email today to grab your spot for this next group!
(720) 734-5082 View (720) 734-5082
This is a 6-week container designed to help you connect more deeply with yourself while in community with other embodied women. This group is for women who want to experience or deepen their somatic embodiment practices, want to connect with other women who value their healing & growth, are committed to attending all 6 group sessions, and who identify as young-ish professionals, recovering perfectionists, women managing anxiety, and fellow healers, therapists, or women in caregiving roles. Investment is $375 for all six 90 minute virtual/telehealth sessions. Group will be capped at 10 women.
Photo of Sarah Forde, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CYT
Hosted by Sarah Forde
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CYT
Group meets in Denver, CO 80211
This is a 6-week container designed to help you connect more deeply with yourself while in community with other embodied women. This group is for women who want to experience or deepen their somatic embodiment practices, want to connect with other women who value their healing & growth, are committed to attending all 6 group sessions, and who identify as young-ish professionals, recovering perfectionists, women managing anxiety, and fellow healers, therapists, or women in caregiving roles. Investment is $375 for all six 90 minute virtual/telehealth sessions. Group will be capped at 10 women.
(630) 489-6250 View (630) 489-6250
Life Coaching 101- DTC is a therapeutic group for adults meeting virtually. The group will offer support, education, perspective, and interventions for member's life goals. The group will help serve as an accountability partner and help create rhythm and consistency with the weekly group meetings. Now accepting new group members. Call 720.336.0030 or email Lauren at Lauren@counseling-colorado.com
Photo of Lauren Nicole Hughes - Counseling Colorado, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Hosted by Counseling Colorado, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC
Group meets in Denver, CO 80222
Life Coaching 101- DTC is a therapeutic group for adults meeting virtually. The group will offer support, education, perspective, and interventions for member's life goals. The group will help serve as an accountability partner and help create rhythm and consistency with the weekly group meetings. Now accepting new group members. Call 720.336.0030 or email Lauren at Lauren@counseling-colorado.com
(720) 548-1604 View (720) 548-1604
Have you experienced narcissistic abuse or a toxic relationship? Struggling to heal, move on, or find a therapist who gets it? Learn the cutting edge research on antagonistic/pathological relationships to help you understand the confusing, harmful dynamics and strategies to help you heal. Topics include: Understanding what makes you vulnerable, dealing with cognitive dissonance (why am I so stuck?), identifying and coping with trauma, preventing toxic relationships in the future and more in an intimate group of survivors. The next 6-Week Virtual Group begins 3/13/25. Visit chellipumphrey.com for details.
Photo of Chelli Pumphrey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTPII, NAST
Hosted by Chelli Pumphrey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTPII, NAST
Group meets in Denver, CO 80218
Have you experienced narcissistic abuse or a toxic relationship? Struggling to heal, move on, or find a therapist who gets it? Learn the cutting edge research on antagonistic/pathological relationships to help you understand the confusing, harmful dynamics and strategies to help you heal. Topics include: Understanding what makes you vulnerable, dealing with cognitive dissonance (why am I so stuck?), identifying and coping with trauma, preventing toxic relationships in the future and more in an intimate group of survivors. The next 6-Week Virtual Group begins 3/13/25. Visit chellipumphrey.com for details.
(720) 763-9301 View (720) 763-9301
Practical Applications of A Course In Miracles, let The Miraculous Be Natural! Every Monday night at the in Denver. 7:30 til 9. Donation..
Photo of Anna Rebecca Quinn, Counselor, LPC, RPT, IRT
Hosted by Anna Rebecca Quinn
Counselor, LPC, RPT, IRT
Group meets in Denver, CO 80210
Practical Applications of A Course In Miracles, let The Miraculous Be Natural! Every Monday night at the in Denver. 7:30 til 9. Donation..
(303) 720-7974 View (303) 720-7974
Explore and better understand the nature of resilience and how to develop and foster better self awareness, self confidence and self esteem. • What do we mean by self confidence and self esteem? • How is self-esteem built & destroyed • The Effects of High and Low Self-Esteem and the dangers of poor self esteem • Improving your self esteem: – The Pathological Critic Developing a Healthy Voice
Photo of Evan Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Hosted by Evan Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Group meets in Denver, CO 80210
Explore and better understand the nature of resilience and how to develop and foster better self awareness, self confidence and self esteem. • What do we mean by self confidence and self esteem? • How is self-esteem built & destroyed • The Effects of High and Low Self-Esteem and the dangers of poor self esteem • Improving your self esteem: – The Pathological Critic Developing a Healthy Voice
(720) 538-9671 View (720) 538-9671
Our group is composed of licensed, award-winning therapists in and around the Greater Denver Area (we also offer online therapy). At Westside Behavioral Care, we are committed to helping you find a therapist who is right for you and your family. Our many qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services and are here to help you. Please call 303-986-4197 for appointments. Our system is simple: no voice mail, no waiting, no sorting through lists. Call now to schedule your appointment.
Photo of Thomas Giles - Westside Behavioral Care - Therapists in Lakewood, Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Hosted by Westside Behavioral Care - Therapists in Lakewood
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Group meets in Denver, CO 80202
Our group is composed of licensed, award-winning therapists in and around the Greater Denver Area (we also offer online therapy). At Westside Behavioral Care, we are committed to helping you find a therapist who is right for you and your family. Our many qualified and compassionate counselors provide outstanding mental health services and are here to help you. Please call 303-986-4197 for appointments. Our system is simple: no voice mail, no waiting, no sorting through lists. Call now to schedule your appointment.
(720) 927-9493 View (720) 927-9493
After teaching meditation for several years, I've put these classes on hold since the pandemic. However, some clients have requested a brief introduction to meditation in the context of a therapy session. Most students discover they actually can meditate, and they come to love it, long for it, and find it subtly yet profoundly changing their lives for the better. As the interest in resuming classes has been high, I'll continue to assess and hope to resume classes again soon.
Photo of Beth Strong, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Beth Strong
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Denver, CO 80222
After teaching meditation for several years, I've put these classes on hold since the pandemic. However, some clients have requested a brief introduction to meditation in the context of a therapy session. Most students discover they actually can meditate, and they come to love it, long for it, and find it subtly yet profoundly changing their lives for the better. As the interest in resuming classes has been high, I'll continue to assess and hope to resume classes again soon.
(303) 900-7001 View (303) 900-7001
Are you struggling with social anxiety or lack of social connection? Top psychology research states that humans are wired for social connection and it is, in fact, necessary for our survival. Our society has become more and more disconnected with the rise of technology and an increase in mental health related issues. Although the disconnection has increased, our need for connection remains the same. This is a 6-week group therapy course designed for people to develop communication strategies, reduce negative self-talk and alleviate social anxiety as well as create connection with like-minded others.
Photo of Lauren Pollema, Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Lauren Pollema
Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Denver, CO 80218
Are you struggling with social anxiety or lack of social connection? Top psychology research states that humans are wired for social connection and it is, in fact, necessary for our survival. Our society has become more and more disconnected with the rise of technology and an increase in mental health related issues. Although the disconnection has increased, our need for connection remains the same. This is a 6-week group therapy course designed for people to develop communication strategies, reduce negative self-talk and alleviate social anxiety as well as create connection with like-minded others.
(720) 868-9597 View (720) 868-9597
Teen Chat is a weekly therapy group for rising 9th graders and high school teens to explore everyday stressors while learning practical coping skills & connecting with others in a brave, but safer space. When you’re an anxious teen, everyday situations are full of stress & persistent worry. From school to extracurriculars, the pressure to excel & take care of yourself…All while trying to make friends who like you for who you are & what you have to offer. It’s overwhelming. And the thing about these types of struggles are that they lead to really big feelings of panic, hopelessness, low self-esteem, self-harm, & more.
Photo of Jillene Chio, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hosted by Jillene Chio
Pre-Licensed Professional
Group meets in Denver, CO 80222
Teen Chat is a weekly therapy group for rising 9th graders and high school teens to explore everyday stressors while learning practical coping skills & connecting with others in a brave, but safer space. When you’re an anxious teen, everyday situations are full of stress & persistent worry. From school to extracurriculars, the pressure to excel & take care of yourself…All while trying to make friends who like you for who you are & what you have to offer. It’s overwhelming. And the thing about these types of struggles are that they lead to really big feelings of panic, hopelessness, low self-esteem, self-harm, & more.
(720) 740-0461 View (720) 740-0461
Wolff Child Psychology is an established child and family psychology practice in Colorado, supporting children and families through comprehensive, evidence-based evaluations, individualized therapy and coaching, and collaborative educational advocacy. Our team is recognized by parents, educators, and health care professionals for its dedication to uncovering each child’s strengths and challenges, and to providing thoughtful, relational, and science-based care. We are committed to serving families from diverse socioeconomic, racial, and cultural backgrounds and clients with neurodiverse profiles. We look forward to providing your child and family with the high-quality, personalized services the community has come to expect.
Photo of Brian Wolff, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Brian Wolff
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Denver, CO 80211
Wolff Child Psychology is an established child and family psychology practice in Colorado, supporting children and families through comprehensive, evidence-based evaluations, individualized therapy and coaching, and collaborative educational advocacy. Our team is recognized by parents, educators, and health care professionals for its dedication to uncovering each child’s strengths and challenges, and to providing thoughtful, relational, and science-based care. We are committed to serving families from diverse socioeconomic, racial, and cultural backgrounds and clients with neurodiverse profiles. We look forward to providing your child and family with the high-quality, personalized services the community has come to expect.
(303) 747-4015 View (303) 747-4015

See more therapy options for Denver

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Denver?

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.