Support Groups in Greenland, NH

Learn three core skills that make real change possible: managing your emotions, changing unhelpful thoughts, and building a healthier environment. Our groups of 6–12 people offer a safe place to practice these skills. Built on a combined 60 years of practice and created by licensed clinicians that are seacoast residents, it uses a person-centered, trauma-informed approach. You’ll grow your confidence, improve your relationships, and build a plan to overcome substance use for good. You won’t get the same old “disease model.” You’ll get a clear, practical path forward. All groups include bridge psychiatry.
Photo of John Iudice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Hosted by John Iudice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Group meets in Greenland, NH 03840
Learn three core skills that make real change possible: managing your emotions, changing unhelpful thoughts, and building a healthier environment. Our groups of 6–12 people offer a safe place to practice these skills. Built on a combined 60 years of practice and created by licensed clinicians that are seacoast residents, it uses a person-centered, trauma-informed approach. You’ll grow your confidence, improve your relationships, and build a plan to overcome substance use for good. You won’t get the same old “disease model.” You’ll get a clear, practical path forward. All groups include bridge psychiatry.
(866) 930-7055 View (866) 930-7055
Grief and Loss with EMDR therapy group: Next group cohort will begin 11/6/24 EMDR has been found to be very effective both for individual and group sessions. The group will be very small (max 6) and will offer people a space to process their losses without having to talk through the details of their experience (unless they choose to share). Please email me to schedule a 15 minute consultation call to be sure this is the right group for you. My office is on the second floor, so the ability to climb stairs are required.
Photo of Jennifer L Moore, Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC
Hosted by Jennifer L Moore
Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC
Group meets in Greenland, NH 03840
Grief and Loss with EMDR therapy group: Next group cohort will begin 11/6/24 EMDR has been found to be very effective both for individual and group sessions. The group will be very small (max 6) and will offer people a space to process their losses without having to talk through the details of their experience (unless they choose to share). Please email me to schedule a 15 minute consultation call to be sure this is the right group for you. My office is on the second floor, so the ability to climb stairs are required.
(603) 420-2532 View (603) 420-2532
Learn three core skills that make real change possible: managing your emotions, changing unhelpful thoughts, and building a healthier environment. Our groups of 6–12 people offer a safe place to practice these skills. Built on a combined 60 years of practice and created by licensed clinicians that are seacoast residents, it uses a person-centered, trauma-informed approach. You’ll grow your confidence, improve your relationships, and build a plan to overcome substance use for good. You won’t get the same old “disease model.” You’ll get a clear, practical path forward. All groups include bridge psychiatry.
Photo of John Iudice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Hosted by John Iudice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Group meets in Greenland, NH 03840
Learn three core skills that make real change possible: managing your emotions, changing unhelpful thoughts, and building a healthier environment. Our groups of 6–12 people offer a safe place to practice these skills. Built on a combined 60 years of practice and created by licensed clinicians that are seacoast residents, it uses a person-centered, trauma-informed approach. You’ll grow your confidence, improve your relationships, and build a plan to overcome substance use for good. You won’t get the same old “disease model.” You’ll get a clear, practical path forward. All groups include bridge psychiatry.
(866) 930-7055 View (866) 930-7055
Learn three core skills that make real change possible: managing your emotions, changing unhelpful thoughts, and building a healthier environment. Our groups of 6–12 people offer a safe place to practice these skills. Built on a combined 60 years of practice and created by licensed clinicians that are seacoast residents, it uses a person-centered, trauma-informed approach. You’ll grow your confidence, improve your relationships, and build a plan to overcome substance use for good. You won’t get the same old “disease model.” You’ll get a clear, practical path forward. All groups include bridge psychiatry.
Photo of John Iudice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Hosted by John Iudice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MLADC
Group meets in Greenland, NH 03840
Learn three core skills that make real change possible: managing your emotions, changing unhelpful thoughts, and building a healthier environment. Our groups of 6–12 people offer a safe place to practice these skills. Built on a combined 60 years of practice and created by licensed clinicians that are seacoast residents, it uses a person-centered, trauma-informed approach. You’ll grow your confidence, improve your relationships, and build a plan to overcome substance use for good. You won’t get the same old “disease model.” You’ll get a clear, practical path forward. All groups include bridge psychiatry.
(866) 930-7055 View (866) 930-7055

More Groups Nearby

Here are at Crossroads Recovery Center we understand the necessity for intensive outpatient services that help individuals cope with with the additional anxiety and depression symptoms that we are facing everyday there is support to help those who would benefit in a group setting of others who are experiencing similar difficulties. Call 603-912-4490 for an immediate intake.
Photo of Barry Pietrantonio - Crossroads Recovery Center, LLC, Treatment Center, LCMHC, LDAC
Hosted by Crossroads Recovery Center, LLC
Treatment Center, LCMHC, LDAC
Group meets in Salem, NH 03079
Here are at Crossroads Recovery Center we understand the necessity for intensive outpatient services that help individuals cope with with the additional anxiety and depression symptoms that we are facing everyday there is support to help those who would benefit in a group setting of others who are experiencing similar difficulties. Call 603-912-4490 for an immediate intake.
(603) 945-1152 View (603) 945-1152
Feel overwhelmed, scattered, or disconnected from yourself? This 4-week online group offers a supportive space to learn practical mindfulness skills that help you slow down, tune in, and respond to life with greater ease. Each week, we'll explore evidence-based techniques drawn from mindfulness-based approaches to reduce stress, quiet the inner critic, and cultivate presence. No prior experience needed — just a willingness to show up. Format: 4 sessions. Online via video. Private pay. Space is limited. Inquire to reserve your spot.
Photo of Laura Klain, Counselor, LCMHC, PCC
Hosted by Laura Klain
Counselor, LCMHC, PCC
Group meets in Londonderry, NH 03053
Feel overwhelmed, scattered, or disconnected from yourself? This 4-week online group offers a supportive space to learn practical mindfulness skills that help you slow down, tune in, and respond to life with greater ease. Each week, we'll explore evidence-based techniques drawn from mindfulness-based approaches to reduce stress, quiet the inner critic, and cultivate presence. No prior experience needed — just a willingness to show up. Format: 4 sessions. Online via video. Private pay. Space is limited. Inquire to reserve your spot.
(603) 207-8904 View (603) 207-8904
This is an 6 session council of your peers co-facilitated by Mary Ford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (https://change-with-more-ease.com), and Linda Tremblay, LCMHC, MLADC. We will gather on virtual zoom and Listen from the Heart. (Not listening in order to respond.) Share from the Heart (Not to impress or to know.) Be lean of speech (Practicing generosity and allowing space for others.) Spontaneity (Responding in the present moment, not pre-scripting.)
Photo of Linda Tremblay, Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ACHT
Hosted by Linda Tremblay
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ACHT
Group meets in Pittsfield, NH 03263
This is an 6 session council of your peers co-facilitated by Mary Ford, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (https://change-with-more-ease.com), and Linda Tremblay, LCMHC, MLADC. We will gather on virtual zoom and Listen from the Heart. (Not listening in order to respond.) Share from the Heart (Not to impress or to know.) Be lean of speech (Practicing generosity and allowing space for others.) Spontaneity (Responding in the present moment, not pre-scripting.)
(603) 509-3107 x603661 View (603) 509-3107 x603661
Here are at Crossroads due to the necessity for intensive outpatient services that help individuals cope with with the additional anxiety and depression symptoms that we are facing everyday there is support to help those who would benefit in a group setting of others who are experiencing similar difficulties. Call our office at 603-912-4490 for an immediate intake. All groups are in person
Hosted by Lori Eaton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Group meets in Salem, NH 03079
Here are at Crossroads due to the necessity for intensive outpatient services that help individuals cope with with the additional anxiety and depression symptoms that we are facing everyday there is support to help those who would benefit in a group setting of others who are experiencing similar difficulties. Call our office at 603-912-4490 for an immediate intake. All groups are in person
(603) 912-4490 View (603) 912-4490
I facilitate Bi-weekly and Monthly Consultation Groups for licensed practicing psychotherapists. This experience intends to support clinical work and can meet the annual requirement for consultation time by the professional licensing boards. The 90 minute groups are limited to 6 members. Groups offered: 1) General Therapy Consultation Groups supporting various therapeutic approaches of the participating therapists, 2) EMDR Consultation for Level II EMDR trained therapists, and 3) Integrative (e.g., EFT, Gottman...) Couples Therapy Consultation. All groups function within a safe and focused Reflecting Team format. Application requirements: an individual interview, resume, and a professional liability insurance binder.
Photo of Mark D Moses, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Mark D Moses
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Portsmouth, NH 03801
I facilitate Bi-weekly and Monthly Consultation Groups for licensed practicing psychotherapists. This experience intends to support clinical work and can meet the annual requirement for consultation time by the professional licensing boards. The 90 minute groups are limited to 6 members. Groups offered: 1) General Therapy Consultation Groups supporting various therapeutic approaches of the participating therapists, 2) EMDR Consultation for Level II EMDR trained therapists, and 3) Integrative (e.g., EFT, Gottman...) Couples Therapy Consultation. All groups function within a safe and focused Reflecting Team format. Application requirements: an individual interview, resume, and a professional liability insurance binder.
(603) 728-4515 View (603) 728-4515
Take a look at our website www.bedfordfamilytherapy.com. We have practice locations in Exeter and Bedford, NH as well as Charlotte, NC. In addition to individual, couples and family therapy, we also offer a division called INTEGRATE which provides ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis), SLP (Speech and Language Pathology); ADHD and Executive Function Coaching; Case Management; Supplement Support; Life Coaching and Executive Consulting. We believe in treating the whole person systemically. Please reach out to our intake coordinator, Deb Belleau, at 603-606-1233 x 208 for more information!
Photo of Lisa Boldin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA/MSW, LICSW
Hosted by Lisa Boldin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA/MSW, LICSW
Group meets in Exeter, NH 03833
Take a look at our website www.bedfordfamilytherapy.com. We have practice locations in Exeter and Bedford, NH as well as Charlotte, NC. In addition to individual, couples and family therapy, we also offer a division called INTEGRATE which provides ABA (Applied Behavioral Analysis), SLP (Speech and Language Pathology); ADHD and Executive Function Coaching; Case Management; Supplement Support; Life Coaching and Executive Consulting. We believe in treating the whole person systemically. Please reach out to our intake coordinator, Deb Belleau, at 603-606-1233 x 208 for more information!
(888) 891-4166 x208 View (888) 891-4166 x208
Crossroads offers Substance Use Disorder Intensive Outpatient Program located at our office at 155 Main Street in Salem NH. This IOP helps each individual client return to a setting condusive to returning to work and home setting. Client work Awareness, Mindfulness and Acceptance and interact with other like minded individuals with all types of addiction issues related to substance use.
Hosted by Lori Eaton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Group meets in Salem, NH 03079
Crossroads offers Substance Use Disorder Intensive Outpatient Program located at our office at 155 Main Street in Salem NH. This IOP helps each individual client return to a setting condusive to returning to work and home setting. Client work Awareness, Mindfulness and Acceptance and interact with other like minded individuals with all types of addiction issues related to substance use.
(603) 912-4490 View (603) 912-4490
Due to Covid, WSW is not offering any new groups at this time. MaryBeth is a member of Women Supporting Women as well as a peer group leader. WSW is a wellness center located in Exeter NH.: "WSW offers workshops and gatherings to empower, educate, inspire, and uplift." Please connect with this link to read more about the center and the groups that are offered there: http://wswcenter.com/WSW/WSW_Home.html
Photo of Marybeth Stemp, Counselor, LMHC
Hosted by Marybeth Stemp
Counselor, LMHC
Group meets in Exeter, NH 03833
Due to Covid, WSW is not offering any new groups at this time. MaryBeth is a member of Women Supporting Women as well as a peer group leader. WSW is a wellness center located in Exeter NH.: "WSW offers workshops and gatherings to empower, educate, inspire, and uplift." Please connect with this link to read more about the center and the groups that are offered there: http://wswcenter.com/WSW/WSW_Home.html
(978) 278-3847 View (978) 278-3847
In these 8 week sessions, we will review some of the underlying tenets of the narrative worldview. There will be opportunities to do self-reflective writing using narrative questions. Each participant will identify an area of interest that they would like to pursue using narrative inquiry, and we will serve as witnesses for each other as we explore these practices. Next session beginning in Fall of 2026, when there are enough people to begin. For more information, and to register your interest, email me at jodyransom@comcast.net and see my website at www.centerfornarrativecoaching.com.
Photo of Jody Ransom, Psychologist, PsyD, PCC
Hosted by Jody Ransom
Psychologist, PsyD, PCC
Group meets in Exeter, NH 03833
In these 8 week sessions, we will review some of the underlying tenets of the narrative worldview. There will be opportunities to do self-reflective writing using narrative questions. Each participant will identify an area of interest that they would like to pursue using narrative inquiry, and we will serve as witnesses for each other as we explore these practices. Next session beginning in Fall of 2026, when there are enough people to begin. For more information, and to register your interest, email me at jodyransom@comcast.net and see my website at www.centerfornarrativecoaching.com.
(603) 952-4434 View (603) 952-4434
If you could have left already, you would have. If insight alone were enough, you wouldn’t still feel pulled back into the same cycle — the hope, the anxiety, the waiting, the urge to reach out, and the confusion that follows. This 12-week group program focuses on: Understanding trauma bonds and anxious–avoidant attachment patterns, Calming attachment activation without using the relationship for relief, Recognizing protest behaviors and responding without self-abandonment, Setting boundaries without guilt or cruelty, Rebuilding internal safety, self-trust, and emotional capacity, Learning how to stay connected to yourself — even when attachment is triggered.
Photo of Julie Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Hosted by Julie Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Group meets in Portsmouth, NH 03801
If you could have left already, you would have. If insight alone were enough, you wouldn’t still feel pulled back into the same cycle — the hope, the anxiety, the waiting, the urge to reach out, and the confusion that follows. This 12-week group program focuses on: Understanding trauma bonds and anxious–avoidant attachment patterns, Calming attachment activation without using the relationship for relief, Recognizing protest behaviors and responding without self-abandonment, Setting boundaries without guilt or cruelty, Rebuilding internal safety, self-trust, and emotional capacity, Learning how to stay connected to yourself — even when attachment is triggered.
(888) 267-2989 View (888) 267-2989
This group is for court mandated and/or self mandated clients involved in domestic violence. Using the EMERGE model, this group runs for 36 weeks. Each week is 1.5 hours in length. The group meets on Saturdays from 10:00AM - 11:30 AM live via secure video. There is a rolling admission to this group. Begins July 2020
Photo of Philip A Meher - New England Anger Management - Rev. Philip Meher , Counselor, MA, MEd, LCMHC, CAMT
Hosted by New England Anger Management - Rev. Philip Meher
Counselor, MA, MEd, LCMHC, CAMT
Group meets in Portsmouth, NH 03801
This group is for court mandated and/or self mandated clients involved in domestic violence. Using the EMERGE model, this group runs for 36 weeks. Each week is 1.5 hours in length. The group meets on Saturdays from 10:00AM - 11:30 AM live via secure video. There is a rolling admission to this group. Begins July 2020
(603) 736-7017 View (603) 736-7017
There is a story being told about you. Perhaps it was handed to you in childhood, wrapped in the language of other people's fear or disappointment. Perhaps it arrived later — through a marriage that didn't hold, a season of loss with no clear ending, or the slow erosion of a dream deferred. And perhaps you have been living inside that story for so long that you have begun to mistake it for the truth. This group is built on a different premise. Drawing on narrative therapy, we begin with a deceptively simple idea: the problem is not you. The problem is the problem.
Photo of Nadine Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Hosted by Nadine Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Group meets in Exeter, NH 03833
There is a story being told about you. Perhaps it was handed to you in childhood, wrapped in the language of other people's fear or disappointment. Perhaps it arrived later — through a marriage that didn't hold, a season of loss with no clear ending, or the slow erosion of a dream deferred. And perhaps you have been living inside that story for so long that you have begun to mistake it for the truth. This group is built on a different premise. Drawing on narrative therapy, we begin with a deceptively simple idea: the problem is not you. The problem is the problem.
(603) 810-8605 View (603) 810-8605
An experiential, mindfulness-based program using evidence-based tools to learn and practice the skills of emotional regulation, mindfulness, meditation, distress tolerance skills, radical acceptance, and developing innate qualities to overcome stress, anxiety and anger. The purpose is to improve emotional health and increase psychological flexibility. You will learn the basics of Buddhism, and how they can translate to our Western world mental health solutions!
Photo of Meredith J Hamel, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCMHC, MLADC, IDSP
Hosted by Meredith J Hamel
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCMHC, MLADC, IDSP
Group meets in Rochester, NH 03867
An experiential, mindfulness-based program using evidence-based tools to learn and practice the skills of emotional regulation, mindfulness, meditation, distress tolerance skills, radical acceptance, and developing innate qualities to overcome stress, anxiety and anger. The purpose is to improve emotional health and increase psychological flexibility. You will learn the basics of Buddhism, and how they can translate to our Western world mental health solutions!
(603) 261-2365 View (603) 261-2365
Parenting Skills and Support Group: Focusing on presenting information on a variety of parenting topics and skills, followed by a period of discussion and mutual support for parents. Topics will include Parenting Styles, Child Development, Attachment and Anxiety, Discipline and Behavior Plans, Predictable Problems, Teenagers and Adolescence, Siblings and Family Dynamics, Family Culture and Values, and Common Mental Health Difficulties.
Photo of James Marston - Alliance Mental Health & Youth Consult Services, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Hosted by Alliance Mental Health & Youth Consult Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Group meets in Barrington, NH 03825
Parenting Skills and Support Group: Focusing on presenting information on a variety of parenting topics and skills, followed by a period of discussion and mutual support for parents. Topics will include Parenting Styles, Child Development, Attachment and Anxiety, Discipline and Behavior Plans, Predictable Problems, Teenagers and Adolescence, Siblings and Family Dynamics, Family Culture and Values, and Common Mental Health Difficulties.
(603) 343-2166 View (603) 343-2166
womens group forming, which combines equine assisted psychotherapy and traditional psychotherapy. Focus of group is on growth, change, increased self awareness,energizing for a stronger vision of life goals, identifying emotional blocks and increasing joy.
Hosted by Catherine Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT, ADC
Group meets in Kensington, NH 03833
womens group forming, which combines equine assisted psychotherapy and traditional psychotherapy. Focus of group is on growth, change, increased self awareness,energizing for a stronger vision of life goals, identifying emotional blocks and increasing joy.
(508) 213-8107 View (508) 213-8107
Open to women of all ages who struggle with any type of addiction. This group addresses the root of the problem and will introduce women to effective coping skills to help get over the addiction and move into a life worth living. Struggling with Codependency? We're starting a Codependency Group soon!
Photo of Jennifer Casey - Jennifer Casey, LADC Counseling, LLC , Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, BS
Hosted by Jennifer Casey, LADC Counseling, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, BS
Group meets in North Hampton, NH 03862
Open to women of all ages who struggle with any type of addiction. This group addresses the root of the problem and will introduce women to effective coping skills to help get over the addiction and move into a life worth living. Struggling with Codependency? We're starting a Codependency Group soon!
(207) 618-9431 View (207) 618-9431

See more therapy options for Greenland

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Greenland?

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.