Support Groups in Tippecanoe County, IN

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Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Caralyn M Wendling, Counselor, MS, LMHC, LAC
Hosted by Caralyn M Wendling
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LAC
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 637-4884 View (765) 637-4884
Dawson Counseling & Performance specializes in the full spectrum of behavioral health, wellness, and sport/performance services, helping individuals achieve balance, resilience, and peak potential. Our providers offer expertise from complex health challenges to elite performance. We focus on each individual's specific needs to tailor treatment so that you can experience real change. We offer individual counseling for ages 12+, as well as couples counseling. We also offer psychological testing for ages 4+, which is a comprehensive process to evaluate how each individual uniquely functions. Common areas of assessment include: ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, and other mental health concerns.
Photo of Jadelyn Sanders, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, LMHCA
Hosted by Jadelyn Sanders
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSEd, LMHCA
Group meets in Lafayette, IN 47901
Dawson Counseling & Performance specializes in the full spectrum of behavioral health, wellness, and sport/performance services, helping individuals achieve balance, resilience, and peak potential. Our providers offer expertise from complex health challenges to elite performance. We focus on each individual's specific needs to tailor treatment so that you can experience real change. We offer individual counseling for ages 12+, as well as couples counseling. We also offer psychological testing for ages 4+, which is a comprehensive process to evaluate how each individual uniquely functions. Common areas of assessment include: ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, and other mental health concerns.
(765) 201-0528 View (765) 201-0528
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Morgan Killian, Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, Intern
Hosted by Morgan Killian
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, Intern
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 785-3615 View (765) 785-3615
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Joe Muskat, Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Hosted by Joe Muskat
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 722-2889 View (765) 722-2889
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Tara Striegel, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, HS-BCP
Hosted by Tara Striegel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, HS-BCP
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 544-5629 View (765) 544-5629
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Cat Sorenson, Counselor, LMHC
Hosted by Cat Sorenson
Counselor, LMHC
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 637-4884 View (765) 637-4884
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Dana Kirkwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Hosted by Dana Kirkwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 305-5522 View (765) 305-5522
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Ashley Grubb, Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Hosted by Ashley Grubb
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 637-4884 View (765) 637-4884
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Ariana Stankovic, Counselor, LMHC
Hosted by Ariana Stankovic
Counselor, LMHC
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 268-9709 View (765) 268-9709
Please continue to contact me with your interest and availability. Connections is an online group with a goal to foster connections with those who are struggling with similar issues such as depression, anxiety, boundaries, motivation, self-esteem, guilt & shame, anger management, grief & loss, thinking errors, codependency, and much, much more! The group meets once per week to gain support from peers through group discussion. The group is educational and interactive focusing on a different topic each week to gain skills and better regulate emotions. Space is limited, contact me today to reserve your spot.
Photo of Morgan Salazar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Morgan Salazar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Lafayette, IN 47905
Please continue to contact me with your interest and availability. Connections is an online group with a goal to foster connections with those who are struggling with similar issues such as depression, anxiety, boundaries, motivation, self-esteem, guilt & shame, anger management, grief & loss, thinking errors, codependency, and much, much more! The group meets once per week to gain support from peers through group discussion. The group is educational and interactive focusing on a different topic each week to gain skills and better regulate emotions. Space is limited, contact me today to reserve your spot.
(765) 563-2906 View (765) 563-2906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Abby Smolinske, Mental Health Associate, LMHC-A, ATR-P
Hosted by Abby Smolinske
Mental Health Associate, LMHC-A, ATR-P
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 536-3608 View (765) 536-3608
Dawson Counseling & Performance specializes in the full spectrum of behavioral health, wellness, and sport/performance services, helping individuals achieve balance, resilience, and peak potential. Our providers offer expertise from complex health challenges to elite performance. We focus on each individual's specific needs to tailor treatment so that you can experience real change. We offer individual counseling for ages 12+, as well as couples counseling. We also offer psychological testing for ages 4+, which is a comprehensive process to evaluate how each individual uniquely functions. Common areas of assessment include: ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, and other mental health concerns.
Photo of Kelsey Dawson, Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Hosted by Kelsey Dawson
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Group meets in Lafayette, IN 47901
Dawson Counseling & Performance specializes in the full spectrum of behavioral health, wellness, and sport/performance services, helping individuals achieve balance, resilience, and peak potential. Our providers offer expertise from complex health challenges to elite performance. We focus on each individual's specific needs to tailor treatment so that you can experience real change. We offer individual counseling for ages 12+, as well as couples counseling. We also offer psychological testing for ages 4+, which is a comprehensive process to evaluate how each individual uniquely functions. Common areas of assessment include: ADHD, Autism, Learning Disorders, and other mental health concerns.
(765) 237-9658 View (765) 237-9658
When you’re struggling to cope with the challenges in your life, starting therapy is a courageous step toward change. In a complex world, we believe in straightforward, compassionate support. Providing mental health counseling in Tippecanoe County, Lafayette, West Lafayette, Purdue, and surrounding areas. www.counselingsimplified.com
Photo of Kirby Bott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Hosted by Kirby Bott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
When you’re struggling to cope with the challenges in your life, starting therapy is a courageous step toward change. In a complex world, we believe in straightforward, compassionate support. Providing mental health counseling in Tippecanoe County, Lafayette, West Lafayette, Purdue, and surrounding areas. www.counselingsimplified.com
(765) 441-4782 View (765) 441-4782
This group will provide women with the opportunity to address the varied life experiences that we have as women. The demands placed on us as mothers, providers and the many roles we play will be addressed.
Photo of Ruth Miriam Kozienski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Hosted by Ruth Miriam Kozienski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
This group will provide women with the opportunity to address the varied life experiences that we have as women. The demands placed on us as mothers, providers and the many roles we play will be addressed.
(765) 560-1513 View (765) 560-1513
An in-person, outpatient group starting Wednesday, June 5th 2024 to assist you exploring your relationship with your body through experiential activities. This is a 6-week, in-person only, closed group geared for adults working towards eating disorder recovery. This group will explore topics including self-compassion, body checking, and your relationship with clothing and mirrors. This group is designed for those who have started body image work on their journey and want to dig deeper into thoughts, feelings and experiences related to body image in a safe group environment. Contact us today!
Photo of Emily Ervin, Counselor, LMHC
Hosted by Emily Ervin
Counselor, LMHC
Group meets in Lafayette, IN 47901
An in-person, outpatient group starting Wednesday, June 5th 2024 to assist you exploring your relationship with your body through experiential activities. This is a 6-week, in-person only, closed group geared for adults working towards eating disorder recovery. This group will explore topics including self-compassion, body checking, and your relationship with clothing and mirrors. This group is designed for those who have started body image work on their journey and want to dig deeper into thoughts, feelings and experiences related to body image in a safe group environment. Contact us today!
(765) 536-3709 View (765) 536-3709
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Natalie Heidenreich, Mental Health Associate
Hosted by Natalie Heidenreich
Mental Health Associate
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 295-6480 View (765) 295-6480
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Photo of Jessica Kobrick
Hosted by Jessica Kobrick
Verified Verified
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 248-4289 View (765) 248-4289
This group will provide the opportunity to address substance abuse issues and how these impact your life and relationships. I will provide unconditional acceptance and support in overcoming addiction.
Photo of Ruth Miriam Kozienski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Hosted by Ruth Miriam Kozienski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
This group will provide the opportunity to address substance abuse issues and how these impact your life and relationships. I will provide unconditional acceptance and support in overcoming addiction.
(765) 560-1513 View (765) 560-1513
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
Hosted by Rhyannon Shuck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
Life can be difficult. Counseling shouldn’t be. If you are feeling out of balance or in distress, it can feel defeating to reach out for help and be met with unreturned calls, waitlists, or therapists who are not taking new clients. We believe that you shouldn’t have to go through this alone. At Counseling Simplified, we help you feel better. We have no waitlists, evening and weekend appointments, and many of our therapists can see you within a week of your first contact. Book your appointment now with one of our therapists to get started.
(765) 358-5351 View (765) 358-5351
The Fall Teen Art Group is a short term psychotherapy group where teens can build self confidence, identify their stressors and build coping skills to manage their anxiety, depression and stress. It can also be a gentle introduction to considering individual psychotherapy. Each session will have a different focus and use different materials. Participants are always welcome to use the media they prefer. Through creating art, teens can build coping skills, practice mindfulness, learn to manage their stress, anxiety and depression and have fun! All supplies are provided, no experience necessary.
Photo of Dawn S Dilley, Psychologist, PhD, HSPP, She/Her
Hosted by Dawn S Dilley
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP, She/Her
Group meets in West Lafayette, IN 47906
The Fall Teen Art Group is a short term psychotherapy group where teens can build self confidence, identify their stressors and build coping skills to manage their anxiety, depression and stress. It can also be a gentle introduction to considering individual psychotherapy. Each session will have a different focus and use different materials. Participants are always welcome to use the media they prefer. Through creating art, teens can build coping skills, practice mindfulness, learn to manage their stress, anxiety and depression and have fun! All supplies are provided, no experience necessary.
(765) 268-9591 View (765) 268-9591

See more therapy options for Tippecanoe County

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Tippecanoe County?

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.