Support Groups in Taylor, MI

We offer the Maximum Weight Management Hypnosis Groups each quarter (or more often depending on interest). Groups can also be performed at your home or work location with a minimum of 5 attendees (in addition to yourself). If you arrange a home or work group session, you receive the course free of charge.
Photo of David R Wright - Counseling and Therapy Associates, Treatment Center, MA, LPC, NCC
Hosted by Counseling and Therapy Associates
Treatment Center, MA, LPC, NCC
Group meets in Taylor, MI 48180
We offer the Maximum Weight Management Hypnosis Groups each quarter (or more often depending on interest). Groups can also be performed at your home or work location with a minimum of 5 attendees (in addition to yourself). If you arrange a home or work group session, you receive the course free of charge.
(313) 986-1243 View (313) 986-1243
Therapy services are an effect method for improving mental health. Talk therapy aims to ease anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses. These mental health issues may become most clear during extreme life events, but are often pre-existing. There are many types of therapy services, and meeting with one of our clinical mental health counselors is an important part of finding the type of treatment that will work for you. This is always done in a safe and confidential setting, where you or your loved one will work with our team to find the right approach.
Photo of Tehila Zaks (Zuroff), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, LMSW
Hosted by Tehila Zaks (Zuroff)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, LMSW
Group meets in Taylor, MI 48180
Therapy services are an effect method for improving mental health. Talk therapy aims to ease anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses. These mental health issues may become most clear during extreme life events, but are often pre-existing. There are many types of therapy services, and meeting with one of our clinical mental health counselors is an important part of finding the type of treatment that will work for you. This is always done in a safe and confidential setting, where you or your loved one will work with our team to find the right approach.
(845) 415-1289 View (845) 415-1289
This group is a therapeutic Dungeons and Dragons group, Wise Mind Warriors, at Evolution Mental Health. I am a certified therapeutic game master and avid tabletop player. I have been a dungeon master/game master for multiple different types of tabletop games over the past decade. I am also a Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (DBT) and have experience running therapy groups. This group is a cumulation of my passion for tabletop games, therapy, and helping folks. This is my first Dungeons and Dragons therapeutic group. This group is projected to start after the holidays, in February 2026.
Photo of Nicole Townley, Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Hosted by Nicole Townley
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Group meets in Taylor, MI 48180
This group is a therapeutic Dungeons and Dragons group, Wise Mind Warriors, at Evolution Mental Health. I am a certified therapeutic game master and avid tabletop player. I have been a dungeon master/game master for multiple different types of tabletop games over the past decade. I am also a Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (DBT) and have experience running therapy groups. This group is a cumulation of my passion for tabletop games, therapy, and helping folks. This is my first Dungeons and Dragons therapeutic group. This group is projected to start after the holidays, in February 2026.
(313) 631-4807 View (313) 631-4807

More Groups Nearby

Help your teen improve coping & reduce anxiety with our 6-week educational courses! $125 weekly - 1 hour personalized coaching sessions. Includes text & email support in between sessions, personalized coaching workbook, action plan assignments after 6 weeks & parent/family involvement. *Are you still unsure if this service is right for your teen? Check out our 5-Star Google reviews about working with our teen skills coach, McKenzie, to learn more about the potential impact of this service!
Photo of McKenzie Luker - Wise Practice Skills, CTRS
Hosted by Wise Practice Skills
Verified Verified
Group meets in Troy, MI 48098
Help your teen improve coping & reduce anxiety with our 6-week educational courses! $125 weekly - 1 hour personalized coaching sessions. Includes text & email support in between sessions, personalized coaching workbook, action plan assignments after 6 weeks & parent/family involvement. *Are you still unsure if this service is right for your teen? Check out our 5-Star Google reviews about working with our teen skills coach, McKenzie, to learn more about the potential impact of this service!
(248) 422-0507 View (248) 422-0507
New group starting! Discover nature & yourself to find calm. Nature journaling is the practice of recording observations & experiences in nature. It is mindfulness & reflection, deepening connection with nature, gaining a better understanding of self, body awareness & relaxation, to reduce stress & anxiety. Guided group format in a local nature area. $25 per session. https://www.facebook.com/knelsonLMSW/
Photo of Kathleen Nelson - Kathleen Nelson, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, GC-C
Hosted by Kathleen Nelson, LMSW, ACSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW, GC-C
Group meets in Ann Arbor, MI 48104
New group starting! Discover nature & yourself to find calm. Nature journaling is the practice of recording observations & experiences in nature. It is mindfulness & reflection, deepening connection with nature, gaining a better understanding of self, body awareness & relaxation, to reduce stress & anxiety. Guided group format in a local nature area. $25 per session. https://www.facebook.com/knelsonLMSW/
(734) 720-1792 View (734) 720-1792
DBT for adolescents is an evidence-based approach and the gold standard of treatment for individuals suffering from intense emotional outbursts, identity confusion, interpersonal difficulties, impulsivity, risky behaviors, and teen-parent conflict. It incorporates emotion regulation skills, distress tolerance skills, interpersonal effectiveness skills, family problem-solving skills, and mindfulness skills for adolescents 13-18 requiring more comprehensive treatment than standard Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT). Each DBT module is about 5-6 weeks long.
Photo of Hasti A Raveau - Mala Child & Family Institute, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Mala Child & Family Institute
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Plymouth, MI 48170
DBT for adolescents is an evidence-based approach and the gold standard of treatment for individuals suffering from intense emotional outbursts, identity confusion, interpersonal difficulties, impulsivity, risky behaviors, and teen-parent conflict. It incorporates emotion regulation skills, distress tolerance skills, interpersonal effectiveness skills, family problem-solving skills, and mindfulness skills for adolescents 13-18 requiring more comprehensive treatment than standard Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT). Each DBT module is about 5-6 weeks long.
(734) 219-0541 View (734) 219-0541
Psychiatric Mental and Behavioral Health Services We are Licensed and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NPs in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. We believe that every patient deserves the best mental health care, and it's our job to deliver it! We pride ourselves on going the extra mile to provide research-driven holistic psychiatric care.
Photo of Mohammed Joz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, APNP
Hosted by Mohammed Joz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, APNP
Group meets in Ann Arbor, MI 48108
Psychiatric Mental and Behavioral Health Services We are Licensed and Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health NPs in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. We believe that every patient deserves the best mental health care, and it's our job to deliver it! We pride ourselves on going the extra mile to provide research-driven holistic psychiatric care.
(248) 983-1070 View (248) 983-1070
Healthy Minds Counseling Service is Metro Detroit's premier counseling agency geared toward providing exceptional therapeutic experiences for the community at large. Healthy Minds Counseling Services recognizes the importance of establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship that focuses on building confident healthy minds.... Lets talk!
Photo of Kevin Sanders, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA LPC
Hosted by Kevin Sanders
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA LPC
Group meets in Southfield, MI 48076
Healthy Minds Counseling Service is Metro Detroit's premier counseling agency geared toward providing exceptional therapeutic experiences for the community at large. Healthy Minds Counseling Services recognizes the importance of establishing a healthy therapeutic relationship that focuses on building confident healthy minds.... Lets talk!
(313) 631-4169 View (313) 631-4169
For teens to learn social skills, skills to help with ADHD, and emotion regulation skills while playing DnD. 4-5 players per group, and each group member will have their own individualized treatment plan. Great for teens who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning difficulties, and social skills. Materials given: 3D printed Character, binder, and more. The group includes 1 hour a week with a counseling intern to learn skills to use in group. Please visit our website and fill out interest form. For teens 12-17. We bill insurance first with parents to pay any remaining of $60. Medicaid clients are free.
Photo of Andrea Abadie - Prosperity Counseling and Supervision, Counselor, MS, LPC
Hosted by Prosperity Counseling and Supervision
Counselor, MS, LPC
Group meets in Ypsilanti, MI 48197
For teens to learn social skills, skills to help with ADHD, and emotion regulation skills while playing DnD. 4-5 players per group, and each group member will have their own individualized treatment plan. Great for teens who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, learning difficulties, and social skills. Materials given: 3D printed Character, binder, and more. The group includes 1 hour a week with a counseling intern to learn skills to use in group. Please visit our website and fill out interest form. For teens 12-17. We bill insurance first with parents to pay any remaining of $60. Medicaid clients are free.
(734) 270-6264 View (734) 270-6264
Through self-reflection, we gain valuable insights into our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Our therapists are here to guide you in this process, helping you uncover patterns and understand the underlying causes of your experiences. With these insights, you can build greater resilience, empowering you to navigate life’s challenges with strength and adaptability. Empathy is at the core of our practice. We provide a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we will work towards fostering empathy not only towards others but also towards yourself, enhancing your emotional well-being and relationships.
Photo of Henry Bass, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Hosted by Henry Bass
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Group meets in Ann Arbor, MI 48103
Through self-reflection, we gain valuable insights into our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Our therapists are here to guide you in this process, helping you uncover patterns and understand the underlying causes of your experiences. With these insights, you can build greater resilience, empowering you to navigate life’s challenges with strength and adaptability. Empathy is at the core of our practice. We provide a compassionate and non-judgmental environment where you can feel heard and understood. Together, we will work towards fostering empathy not only towards others but also towards yourself, enhancing your emotional well-being and relationships.
(734) 954-9053 View (734) 954-9053
Based on attachment theory and person-centered play therapy, I provide group work that helps parents feel supported, understand what each behavior is saying and how to address it in a way that feels unique for each parent/ child. You will learn more skills and feel empowered as a parent. Call me if you are interested and want to learn more!
Photo of Liz DeLandsheer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Liz DeLandsheer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Royal Oak, MI 48067
Based on attachment theory and person-centered play therapy, I provide group work that helps parents feel supported, understand what each behavior is saying and how to address it in a way that feels unique for each parent/ child. You will learn more skills and feel empowered as a parent. Call me if you are interested and want to learn more!
(248) 965-0587 View (248) 965-0587
Group for women whom have experienced domestic abuse/violence. Provide support and healing in a safe place. We will explore Signs & Tactics of DV; Power and Control; Cycle/Phases of DV; PPO’s (Personal Protection Order); codependency; DV and PTSD; Healthy versus unhealthy relationships; Gaslighting and why people stay in Toxic Relationships; Affects of DV on Children; Trauma Bonding; DV & Trauma root causes of PTSD
Photo of Arnise O Parker Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Arnise O Parker Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Southfield, MI 48034
Group for women whom have experienced domestic abuse/violence. Provide support and healing in a safe place. We will explore Signs & Tactics of DV; Power and Control; Cycle/Phases of DV; PPO’s (Personal Protection Order); codependency; DV and PTSD; Healthy versus unhealthy relationships; Gaslighting and why people stay in Toxic Relationships; Affects of DV on Children; Trauma Bonding; DV & Trauma root causes of PTSD
(947) 600-5845 View (947) 600-5845
6-Week Career Counseling Workshop: This group will help you to determine what the right career path is for you. It includes career assessments and feedback. In addition, I will help you examine a deeper understand of what you value in a career, how your skills can apply, and what area of interest is your top priority to pursue. This information is then combined to assist you with a more detailed understanding of yourself and gain the confidence to take that next big step- change jobs or re-enter the workforce. Improve your resume and interviewing skills as well.
Photo of Liz DeLandsheer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Liz DeLandsheer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Royal Oak, MI 48067
6-Week Career Counseling Workshop: This group will help you to determine what the right career path is for you. It includes career assessments and feedback. In addition, I will help you examine a deeper understand of what you value in a career, how your skills can apply, and what area of interest is your top priority to pursue. This information is then combined to assist you with a more detailed understanding of yourself and gain the confidence to take that next big step- change jobs or re-enter the workforce. Improve your resume and interviewing skills as well.
(248) 965-0587 View (248) 965-0587
“Power” Sessions are 30-minute, solutions-focused sessions designed to fit your busy life. Each week, you’ll learn one evidence-based skill or concept to deepen your connection—whether in marriage, dating, or plural partnerships. Centered on practical application, each session concludes with a targeted homework assignment to reinforce the new skill throughout the week. Grounded in proven methods like the Gottman Method, ACT, these sessions empower you to address challenges, improve communication, and strengthen intimacy. With Power Sessions, you’ll consistently build a resilient, fulfilling relationship—one quick, impactful step at a time.
Photo of Chris Couling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Hosted by Chris Couling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Group meets in Ann Arbor, MI 48104
“Power” Sessions are 30-minute, solutions-focused sessions designed to fit your busy life. Each week, you’ll learn one evidence-based skill or concept to deepen your connection—whether in marriage, dating, or plural partnerships. Centered on practical application, each session concludes with a targeted homework assignment to reinforce the new skill throughout the week. Grounded in proven methods like the Gottman Method, ACT, these sessions empower you to address challenges, improve communication, and strengthen intimacy. With Power Sessions, you’ll consistently build a resilient, fulfilling relationship—one quick, impactful step at a time.
(734) 999-3579 View (734) 999-3579
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. At Empowerment Journey Hub, our CBT services are designed to help individuals manage a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and more. Our CBT therapy is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they receive the most effective and personalized care possible.
Photo of Shanti Turner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Hosted by Shanti Turner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Group meets in Pontiac, MI 48342
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a highly effective form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. At Empowerment Journey Hub, our CBT services are designed to help individuals manage a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, and more. Our CBT therapy is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, ensuring that they receive the most effective and personalized care possible.
(810) 255-9090 View (810) 255-9090
Where Hearts Breathe Again is a virtual faith-centered support group for Millennial and Gen Z women seeking space to slow down, connect, heal, and care for their emotional well-being. It's a six-session group experience where women can explore topics such as identity, emotional regulation, trauma, relationships, and mental rest in a supportive community. Together, we make space for honest conversation, reflection, faith, and meaningful connection.
Photo of Sinita Hankins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Hosted by Sinita Hankins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Group meets in Detroit, MI 48226
Where Hearts Breathe Again is a virtual faith-centered support group for Millennial and Gen Z women seeking space to slow down, connect, heal, and care for their emotional well-being. It's a six-session group experience where women can explore topics such as identity, emotional regulation, trauma, relationships, and mental rest in a supportive community. Together, we make space for honest conversation, reflection, faith, and meaningful connection.
(313) 936-6660 View (313) 936-6660
The Detroit Storytelling Therapy Collective is a therapeutic group that uses storytelling and guided discussion to support emotional healing and self-awareness. Grounded in narrative therapy principles, participants explore life experiences, identity, and personal challenges in a supportive environment. Through shared storytelling and reflection, individuals examine how personal narratives influence emotions, behaviors, and relationships. The group promotes emotional regulation, resilience, and insight while fostering connection and community support. Participants are encouraged to recognize strengths within their stories and develop healthier perspectives that support growth and overall emotional well-being.
Photo of Takara Montgomery - Heavy on the Introspection, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Heavy on the Introspection
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Group meets in Detroit, MI 48238
The Detroit Storytelling Therapy Collective is a therapeutic group that uses storytelling and guided discussion to support emotional healing and self-awareness. Grounded in narrative therapy principles, participants explore life experiences, identity, and personal challenges in a supportive environment. Through shared storytelling and reflection, individuals examine how personal narratives influence emotions, behaviors, and relationships. The group promotes emotional regulation, resilience, and insight while fostering connection and community support. Participants are encouraged to recognize strengths within their stories and develop healthier perspectives that support growth and overall emotional well-being.
(734) 537-8062 View (734) 537-8062
Weekly psychotherapy group concerned with the work of female liberation. We discuss every topic that concerns women (past, present, and future). We practice skills of connection and belonging. We recognize that all of our early wounding is relational, and we strive to co-create a sacred, healing space of sisterhood. Minimum 6 month commitment. Group consists of past and present clients, so contact me about individual work if you think you may want to join the Group. Currently has a waitlist.
Photo of Cynthia Ransley, Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Hosted by Cynthia Ransley
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Group meets in Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Weekly psychotherapy group concerned with the work of female liberation. We discuss every topic that concerns women (past, present, and future). We practice skills of connection and belonging. We recognize that all of our early wounding is relational, and we strive to co-create a sacred, healing space of sisterhood. Minimum 6 month commitment. Group consists of past and present clients, so contact me about individual work if you think you may want to join the Group. Currently has a waitlist.
(734) 206-7147 View (734) 206-7147
This is a once a month, on-going, open therapy group for individuals who identify as male and have experienced sexual abuse in their past (from ages 0 to 17). You must be under treatment with a counselor at MBHS in order to join the group. Please contact MBHS for more information.
Photo of Mark McMillan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Hosted by Mark McMillan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Group meets in Ferndale, MI 48220
This is a once a month, on-going, open therapy group for individuals who identify as male and have experienced sexual abuse in their past (from ages 0 to 17). You must be under treatment with a counselor at MBHS in order to join the group. Please contact MBHS for more information.
(248) 422-0891 View (248) 422-0891
Galvin Growth Group is a diverse practice of therapists with specialized backgrounds, including children & adolescents, adults, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD & executive functioning, alcohol and substance abuse. We do psychological evaluations as well. Many of our therapists have a background in K-12 education, they help children thrive both in school and in their personal lives. Some therapists specialize in working with adults, including individuals, couples, and adults with addiction issues. Our approach is integrative and includes techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, client-centered therapy, behavioral approaches, and motivational interviewing. We offer Animal Assisted Therapy.
Photo of Connor J. O'Keefe, Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Hosted by Connor J. O'Keefe
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Group meets in Novi, MI 48375
Galvin Growth Group is a diverse practice of therapists with specialized backgrounds, including children & adolescents, adults, adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD & executive functioning, alcohol and substance abuse. We do psychological evaluations as well. Many of our therapists have a background in K-12 education, they help children thrive both in school and in their personal lives. Some therapists specialize in working with adults, including individuals, couples, and adults with addiction issues. Our approach is integrative and includes techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, client-centered therapy, behavioral approaches, and motivational interviewing. We offer Animal Assisted Therapy.
(248) 800-6943 View (248) 800-6943

See more therapy options for Taylor

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Taylor?

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.