Support Groups in Nevada

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This movement-based class integrates principles and techniques from dance/movement therapy to support self-expression, body awareness, and personal insight in a non-clinical setting. Each session begins with a guided warm-up incorporating breathwork, visualization, & stretching to help participants settle into their bodies. From there, participants are invited into a variety of movement explorations & optional group reflection. Practices may include authentic movement, improvisation, mindfulness, somatic awareness, & expressive gesture. The class is designed to encourage connection to the body’s natural rhythms, expand emotional expression, & cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and confidence. No dance experience is necessary.
Photo of Diane Davis, Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT
Hosted by Diane Davis
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89113
This movement-based class integrates principles and techniques from dance/movement therapy to support self-expression, body awareness, and personal insight in a non-clinical setting. Each session begins with a guided warm-up incorporating breathwork, visualization, & stretching to help participants settle into their bodies. From there, participants are invited into a variety of movement explorations & optional group reflection. Practices may include authentic movement, improvisation, mindfulness, somatic awareness, & expressive gesture. The class is designed to encourage connection to the body’s natural rhythms, expand emotional expression, & cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and confidence. No dance experience is necessary.
(702) 842-1195 View (702) 842-1195
A safe, empowering space for adult women to build resilience, share experiences, and heal together. This group supports women in navigating life’s challenges, fostering personal growth, and building meaningful connections. A free copy of Brené Brown’s book will be included. Feel free to reach out for more information!
Photo of Eden Thiess, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS
Hosted by Eden Thiess
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89129
A safe, empowering space for adult women to build resilience, share experiences, and heal together. This group supports women in navigating life’s challenges, fostering personal growth, and building meaningful connections. A free copy of Brené Brown’s book will be included. Feel free to reach out for more information!
(725) 527-7096 View (725) 527-7096
A MomCo meeting includes practical teaching through speakers, videos, and encouragement. Plus, there's usually food... food you didn't make! But more important, you'll get to have honest conversations with other moms who understand the joys and frustrations of motherhood. Topics include parenting, self-care, relationships, and personal growth along with fun icebreakers and activities. We meet the first Thursdays of the month from 5:30-7:00 PM at Maternal Minds Counseling (Summerlin) starting in September.
Photo of Jackie Marie Elo, Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC, ACS, PMH-C
Hosted by Jackie Marie Elo
Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC, ACS, PMH-C
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89128
A MomCo meeting includes practical teaching through speakers, videos, and encouragement. Plus, there's usually food... food you didn't make! But more important, you'll get to have honest conversations with other moms who understand the joys and frustrations of motherhood. Topics include parenting, self-care, relationships, and personal growth along with fun icebreakers and activities. We meet the first Thursdays of the month from 5:30-7:00 PM at Maternal Minds Counseling (Summerlin) starting in September.
(725) 237-5634 View (725) 237-5634
All attendees are in recovery from an eating disorder and most attendees will have co-occurring mood, anxiety, substance, or personality disorders. This is considered comprehensive DBT (mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation) that includes access to phone coaching, therapist weekly professional consultation team, and required individual therapy. The goal of this group is to build skills to come to gradually replace the function of the eating disorder behaviors and move towards a value based life worth living.
Photo of Chelsea Powell, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Chelsea Powell
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89148
All attendees are in recovery from an eating disorder and most attendees will have co-occurring mood, anxiety, substance, or personality disorders. This is considered comprehensive DBT (mindfulness, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation) that includes access to phone coaching, therapist weekly professional consultation team, and required individual therapy. The goal of this group is to build skills to come to gradually replace the function of the eating disorder behaviors and move towards a value based life worth living.
(702) 941-6886 View (702) 941-6886
This is an online group for adults who have experienced loss - of any kind. If you've experience grief and loss resulting from death, moving, divorce/break up, and any other types of loss that result in feelings of grief and life transitions, then this is a supportive group for you. This group is facilitated by Brandi Williams, MSW, CSW-I.
Photo of Jessica Hass - Theravada Mental Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC, LMFT, CSW-I
Hosted by Theravada Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC, LMFT, CSW-I
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89128
This is an online group for adults who have experienced loss - of any kind. If you've experience grief and loss resulting from death, moving, divorce/break up, and any other types of loss that result in feelings of grief and life transitions, then this is a supportive group for you. This group is facilitated by Brandi Williams, MSW, CSW-I.
(702) 718-5369 View (702) 718-5369
This is an open group to give mothers a supportive and safe environment. Sharing experiences in a safe space with other mothers who understand the challenges can lessen feelings of isolation and provide valuable tips. This group can offer emotional support and encouragement, reminding you that you are not alone in this journey. It is a $50 investment (for two sessions) at the beginning of the month to secure your spot.
Photo of Jocelyn Ruvalcaba-Ramos, LPC Intern, MA
Hosted by Jocelyn Ruvalcaba-Ramos
LPC Intern, MA
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89118
This is an open group to give mothers a supportive and safe environment. Sharing experiences in a safe space with other mothers who understand the challenges can lessen feelings of isolation and provide valuable tips. This group can offer emotional support and encouragement, reminding you that you are not alone in this journey. It is a $50 investment (for two sessions) at the beginning of the month to secure your spot.
(702) 577-0724 View (702) 577-0724
Based on over 40 years of research with thousands of couples, The Art & Science of Love Couples Workshop is an intimate weekend workshop that will give you new insights and research-based skills that can dramatically improve the intimacy and friendship in your relationship and help you manage conflict in a healthy, positive way. This workshop is limited to seven couples and provides an opportunity for learning, reflection, and resetting. The workshop will be held July 25th-27th, 2025 in Las Vegas, NV. Please visit: https://irwsh.com under EVENTS to find out more information and register.
Photo of Mesha L Ellis - Mesha Ellis, Relationship & Sex Therapist, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Mesha Ellis, Relationship & Sex Therapist
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89145
Based on over 40 years of research with thousands of couples, The Art & Science of Love Couples Workshop is an intimate weekend workshop that will give you new insights and research-based skills that can dramatically improve the intimacy and friendship in your relationship and help you manage conflict in a healthy, positive way. This workshop is limited to seven couples and provides an opportunity for learning, reflection, and resetting. The workshop will be held July 25th-27th, 2025 in Las Vegas, NV. Please visit: https://irwsh.com under EVENTS to find out more information and register.
(678) 905-7862 View (678) 905-7862
Perinatal (before or after pregnancy) Mood and Anxiety Disorder effect 1 in 5 to 7 women and their families. Mending Mac Counseling works passionately with those experiencing PMAD for women, partners and families. You are not alone. Together, we work through these adjustments and transitions with a collaborative model to help make motherhood a happier time for you and your family. Parenthood can be challenging and often times would require adjustments and support. That's where Mending Mac Counseling comes in.
Photo of Dr. J'aime Nicole MacPherson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, PhD
Hosted by Dr. J'aime Nicole MacPherson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, PhD
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89134
Perinatal (before or after pregnancy) Mood and Anxiety Disorder effect 1 in 5 to 7 women and their families. Mending Mac Counseling works passionately with those experiencing PMAD for women, partners and families. You are not alone. Together, we work through these adjustments and transitions with a collaborative model to help make motherhood a happier time for you and your family. Parenthood can be challenging and often times would require adjustments and support. That's where Mending Mac Counseling comes in.
(702) 872-3714 View (702) 872-3714
Begin healing from perinatal loss and grief while surrounded by understanding individuals facing similar circumstances. This free support group is intended for individuals struggling with miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, early infant death, molar pregnancies, and other perinatal complications. All are welcome.
Photo of Thrive Wellness Reno - Thrive Wellness Reno, Treatment Center
Hosted by Thrive Wellness Reno
Treatment Center
Group meets in Reno, NV 89501
Begin healing from perinatal loss and grief while surrounded by understanding individuals facing similar circumstances. This free support group is intended for individuals struggling with miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, early infant death, molar pregnancies, and other perinatal complications. All are welcome.
(775) 258-7361 View (775) 258-7361
I provide a space in which widows/widowers can relate to others who are grieving. This is non-denominational but faith can play a part of your story. My goal is to lead the group through the challenges of widowhood: finances, being alone, fearful of the future, the pain of loss, and family issues. Call to meet me before you start attending. This group is free of charge.
Photo of Jean K Lerner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Hosted by Jean K Lerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Group meets in Henderson, NV 89052
I provide a space in which widows/widowers can relate to others who are grieving. This is non-denominational but faith can play a part of your story. My goal is to lead the group through the challenges of widowhood: finances, being alone, fearful of the future, the pain of loss, and family issues. Call to meet me before you start attending. This group is free of charge.
(702) 500-0203 View (702) 500-0203
What is Seeking Safety? Seeking Safety was designed for people with a history of trauma and/or addiction. Trauma means a distressing event such as a child abuse, major accident, combat, domestic violence, natural disaster, etc. Addiction means destructive use of alcohol, drugs, gambling, food, shopping, etc. It focuses on coping skills to help you become more safe in your relationships, thinking, and actions. It focuses on your strengths and helps you increase them. It has 25 topics. Every session of Seeking Safety is structured with a check-in, an inspiring quotation, discussion, and check-out. (Summary by Lisa M. Najavits, PhD/ developer of model).
Photo of Jacqueline Anthony, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Jacqueline Anthony
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89169
What is Seeking Safety? Seeking Safety was designed for people with a history of trauma and/or addiction. Trauma means a distressing event such as a child abuse, major accident, combat, domestic violence, natural disaster, etc. Addiction means destructive use of alcohol, drugs, gambling, food, shopping, etc. It focuses on coping skills to help you become more safe in your relationships, thinking, and actions. It focuses on your strengths and helps you increase them. It has 25 topics. Every session of Seeking Safety is structured with a check-in, an inspiring quotation, discussion, and check-out. (Summary by Lisa M. Najavits, PhD/ developer of model).
(702) 827-8721 View (702) 827-8721
As the fast paced lifestyle of this society drives us through day-to-day living, we can get wrapped up in the needs of others and loose sight of our own heart's desire. This group will help you slow down, and come back in touch with your true essence. On this journey of personal reflection and connection with other women, you will be inspired to live from your most authentic self and begin to trust your pure intuition; letting go of fear that keeps you second-guessing and holding back. By following your heart, you learn to take risks, to trust, and to grow.
Photo of Kelly Root, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Kelly Root
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Incline Village, NV 89451
As the fast paced lifestyle of this society drives us through day-to-day living, we can get wrapped up in the needs of others and loose sight of our own heart's desire. This group will help you slow down, and come back in touch with your true essence. On this journey of personal reflection and connection with other women, you will be inspired to live from your most authentic self and begin to trust your pure intuition; letting go of fear that keeps you second-guessing and holding back. By following your heart, you learn to take risks, to trust, and to grow.
(775) 200-9540 View (775) 200-9540
A group of highly trained Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Professional Counselors in Las Vegas, NV. Focusing on eliminating the effects of trauma on the mind, body and relationships. Issues surrounding PTSD, anxiety, trauma, depression and negative cycles in relationship are our focus. Several of our therapists integrate faith-based approaches as well. Trauma including first responders, military, sexual trauma, catastrophic events are areas of expertise for most of our clinicians. We use EMDR, mindfulness, parts work and other highly researched therapeutic models. We offer student rates and intern rates to help make therapy affordable.
Photo of Isabelle Parker - Beyond Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, Emdr
Hosted by Beyond Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, Emdr
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89129
A group of highly trained Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Professional Counselors in Las Vegas, NV. Focusing on eliminating the effects of trauma on the mind, body and relationships. Issues surrounding PTSD, anxiety, trauma, depression and negative cycles in relationship are our focus. Several of our therapists integrate faith-based approaches as well. Trauma including first responders, military, sexual trauma, catastrophic events are areas of expertise for most of our clinicians. We use EMDR, mindfulness, parts work and other highly researched therapeutic models. We offer student rates and intern rates to help make therapy affordable.
(702) 904-8226 View (702) 904-8226
Making Marriage Work is a live workshop of 8 hours of classes held on 4 evenings or 2-day classes that helps couples enrich their relationship quickly without 1:1 counseling. It's based on John Gottman's research, Imago Therapy, and D'Arcy’s 50 years helping couples create more happiness in their relationships. This is a science-based method perfect for committed couples in long-term relationships, premarital couples, couples of all ages and stages of relationship. You share with your partner in a class limited to 6 couples, held 4 times a year. CALL for information/enrollment.
Photo of D'Arcy Vanderpool, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PCC
Hosted by D'Arcy Vanderpool
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PCC
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89128
Making Marriage Work is a live workshop of 8 hours of classes held on 4 evenings or 2-day classes that helps couples enrich their relationship quickly without 1:1 counseling. It's based on John Gottman's research, Imago Therapy, and D'Arcy’s 50 years helping couples create more happiness in their relationships. This is a science-based method perfect for committed couples in long-term relationships, premarital couples, couples of all ages and stages of relationship. You share with your partner in a class limited to 6 couples, held 4 times a year. CALL for information/enrollment.
(725) 215-0659 View (725) 215-0659
This group is designed for children ages 5-10 who need support in dealing with issues related to ADHD and/or a Pervasive Developmental Disorder (such as Asperger's Disorder). The group utilizes play therapy, art therapy, and bibliotherapy to provide outlets in which the children can express their thoughts, feelings, and frustrations. Through the group process, the children also learn appropriate social skills, impulse control skills, and anger management techniques. Self-esteem building activities are also incorporated. The children not only learn necessary life skills, but they also form positive relationships with their peers.
Photo of Jennifer C Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Jennifer C Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89128
This group is designed for children ages 5-10 who need support in dealing with issues related to ADHD and/or a Pervasive Developmental Disorder (such as Asperger's Disorder). The group utilizes play therapy, art therapy, and bibliotherapy to provide outlets in which the children can express their thoughts, feelings, and frustrations. Through the group process, the children also learn appropriate social skills, impulse control skills, and anger management techniques. Self-esteem building activities are also incorporated. The children not only learn necessary life skills, but they also form positive relationships with their peers.
(702) 879-5867 View (702) 879-5867
The Sports Psychology & Counseling Group is an opportunity for individuals to identify issues and challenges related to self-concept/self-esteem, attitude, motivation, performance, injuries, anger management, and career development, among others. Sports Counseling Groups are offered for high school students, university, elite, professional, and retired athletes, including family, significant others, and friends. As a Board Certified Coach (BCC), Dr. Coleman has worked with a diverse group of athletes, is also a National Certified Career Counselor (NCCC), and a Diplomate in Sports Counseling.
Photo of Dr. Vicki D. Coleman, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LMFT, CCMHC, MAC/DAC, SAP/BCC
Hosted by Dr. Vicki D. Coleman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LMFT, CCMHC, MAC/DAC, SAP/BCC
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89117
The Sports Psychology & Counseling Group is an opportunity for individuals to identify issues and challenges related to self-concept/self-esteem, attitude, motivation, performance, injuries, anger management, and career development, among others. Sports Counseling Groups are offered for high school students, university, elite, professional, and retired athletes, including family, significant others, and friends. As a Board Certified Coach (BCC), Dr. Coleman has worked with a diverse group of athletes, is also a National Certified Career Counselor (NCCC), and a Diplomate in Sports Counseling.
(702) 830-7337 View (702) 830-7337
This is a safe space for teen girls to talk about issues, feel heard, and gain support from other girls going through similar experiences. Through this group, girls will be empowered to: make healthy decisions against stressors and perfectionism, become more independent and responsible to prepare for adulthood, create confidence in their accomplishments and body image, filter negative and positive influences, choose healthy relationships, and learn how to deal with bullies through conflict resolution. Facilitated by Lindsey Lee. EMAIL to register.
Photo of Lindsey Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, JD, LMFT, CADC-I
Hosted by Lindsey Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, JD, LMFT, CADC-I
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89117
This is a safe space for teen girls to talk about issues, feel heard, and gain support from other girls going through similar experiences. Through this group, girls will be empowered to: make healthy decisions against stressors and perfectionism, become more independent and responsible to prepare for adulthood, create confidence in their accomplishments and body image, filter negative and positive influences, choose healthy relationships, and learn how to deal with bullies through conflict resolution. Facilitated by Lindsey Lee. EMAIL to register.
(702) 945-0123 View (702) 945-0123
Treat yourself some "me" time, focused on breathing, relaxation, visualization and processing to connect mind and body. Expect a conversation about stress, intention and the connection between the breath, body and movement to release tension and stress. This will be a restorative class, no experience necessary. Bring an open mind and discover a safe place to process and experience support that focuses on the unique experiences of being a woman.
Photo of Christine C Salvo - Creative Conversations Counseling & Mediation LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC
Hosted by Creative Conversations Counseling & Mediation LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC
Group meets in Carson City, NV 89706
Treat yourself some "me" time, focused on breathing, relaxation, visualization and processing to connect mind and body. Expect a conversation about stress, intention and the connection between the breath, body and movement to release tension and stress. This will be a restorative class, no experience necessary. Bring an open mind and discover a safe place to process and experience support that focuses on the unique experiences of being a woman.
(775) 372-4460 View (775) 372-4460
Uncover how you can apply mindfulness to make powerful positive changes to your life instantly. Develop a greater sense of self- awareness and learn how to conquer emotional pain with the use of mindfulness techniques. *The group is conducted via video conferencing.
Photo of Tracy S Moore - Dr. Moore's Tele-Therapy, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I, PsyD
Hosted by Dr. Moore's Tele-Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I, PsyD
Group meets in Las Vegas, NV 89107
Uncover how you can apply mindfulness to make powerful positive changes to your life instantly. Develop a greater sense of self- awareness and learn how to conquer emotional pain with the use of mindfulness techniques. *The group is conducted via video conferencing.
(702) 935-6316 View (702) 935-6316
You are invited to experience SoulCollage®, a process of engaging your inner knowledge through creative expression. No art experience required, just curiosity and willingness to explore your inner self. SoulCollage® is a creative and transformative process in which you create your own personal deck of collaged cards.
Photo of Paulette Gill - Art Therapy Studio of Reno, Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC
Hosted by Art Therapy Studio of Reno
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC
Group meets in Reno, NV 89502
You are invited to experience SoulCollage®, a process of engaging your inner knowledge through creative expression. No art experience required, just curiosity and willingness to explore your inner self. SoulCollage® is a creative and transformative process in which you create your own personal deck of collaged cards.
(775) 514-8642 View (775) 514-8642

See more therapy options for Nevada

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Nevada?

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.