Support Groups in Bordentown, NJ

Mothers play an integral role in their family’s and in society. This group will offer moms the opportunity to self-reflect and share insights about their experiences trying to make it all happen between parenting, homemaking, succeeding in their careers, maintaining their health, friendships and other important relationships. The group will offer coping tools, and nurture a sense of community to help moms break free from isolation and initiate a solid self-care practice. Group therapy for moms offers several great benefits: 1) Sense of community 2) Support network 3) Perspective and insight 4) Skill development 5) Safe space.
Photo of Renu Kaur - Mind Care Therapy | Inclusive MH Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Mind Care Therapy | Inclusive MH Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bordentown, NJ 08505
Are you feeling out of balance? Do you struggle with holding yourself accountable? Are the expectations of the many roles you hold too demanding? Cultural norms, high stress jobs, lack of time, absence of self-care are all major contributing factors to low satisfaction with life. Together, we can rediscover your strengths and build the toolkit you need to better manage the distress you experience and restore your sense of fulfillment. We offer a variety of services and modalities for care and will build a personalized treatment plan to meet your specific needs.
(862) 292-9111 View (862) 292-9111
A 6 week group designed to teach you different strategies and techniques to help foster greater awareness about trauma, anxiety, and stress and how it impacts your functioning. Techniques include: guided meditations, EMDR, and EFT Tapping techniques. The focus of groups is to help reduce negative self-talk and worry, and learn to reduce your reactions to triggers while also increasing greater awareness, greater feelings of being settled, greater connection to a higher power, and better ability to manage day-to-day stressors. This group has a strong spiritual component, incorporating ideas of higher consciousness. *This is a VIRTUAL group.
Photo of Edwige (Eddie) Theokas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, ACS, NCC
Hosted by Edwige (Eddie) Theokas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bordentown, NJ 08505
According to the outside world, you "have it all". But little do they know what is going up there in your head and your heart. You are anxious, stressed and overwhelmed. You have managed to survive the day to day stresses of life, but life is becoming overwhelming for you these days. Something major happens and the trauma and hurts from the past come flooding back into your life. What worked before is no longer working. The laundry is piling up, you've got to make sure the kids get to school on time, your spouse asks you "what's for dinner" and you want to scream. You know there is more. Let me help you transform your life.
(609) 542-2338 View (609) 542-2338
At Acacia Life Therapy, our mission is to empower individuals to achieve mental and emotional longevity through expert, compassionate care. Drawing inspiration from the Acacia tree, revered in ancient Egypt as a symbol of resilience, protection, enlightenment, and renewal. In the same vein, as Acacia's steadfast presence spanning across diverse landscapes, we aim to cultivate an environment where resilience is not merely a trait but a way of life, where the spirit thrives even amidst adversity, echoing the enduring legacy of the revered Acacia tree through the ages.
Photo of Benjamin Gatliff - Acacia Life Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Hosted by Acacia Life Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bordentown, NJ 08505
Now serving Georgia and Florida. At Acacia Life Therapy, our mission is to empower individuals to achieve mental and emotional longevity through expert, compassionate care. Drawing inspiration from the Acacia tree, revered in ancient Egypt as a symbol of resilience, protection, enlightenment, and renewal. Embodying the timeless qualities attributed to this majestic tree, our commitment is unwavering towards fostering personal growth and fortitude, enabling each individual not merely to withstand the trials of existence but to flourish in their wake.
(640) 222-0013 View (640) 222-0013
I offer 90 minute sessions for EMDR and Brain-spotting with the intention of helping to desensitize and reprocess distressing memories, resolve Adverse Childhood Experiences, and treat Attachment Wounding.
Photo of Betty Anne Nixon - EMDR Intensives Bordentown, Betty, Anne, Nixon, APN-C, PMHNPBC
Hosted by EMDR Intensives Bordentown
Betty, Anne, Nixon, APN-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bordentown, NJ 08505
I would like to help you with your symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or overwhelm. My approach is integrative, relational, warm, and at times direct. As an EMDR certified provider, I offer an opportunity to collaborate with compassion and curiosity to empower your felt sense of safety. We can identify triggers and calm your nervous system. Client is in the driver seat- can disclose or not disclose, access a memory or not- the power is in your hands. EMDR makes no promises about outcomes, but provides a top - down (thoughts, cognitions) and bottom-up (body sensations, feelings) approach for those motivated for change.
(609) 403-3872 View (609) 403-3872
This group focuses on understanding where anger comes from, coping mechanism, strategies, and practical solutions. Currently we have Virtual Support Group every Wednesdays 530pm-630pm.
Photo of Mobin Chadha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMS-II
Hosted by Mobin Chadha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bordentown, NJ 08505
Are you feeling: Stressed? Burnt Out? Anxious? or Depressed? STRENGTH. EMPOWER. CHANGE
(732) 603-1526 View (732) 603-1526
This a virtual support group that is designed to identify challenges high school seniors are facing with COVID-19 pandemic such as the impact on their traditional milestones. The participants will be empowered to identify healthy coping strategies. The Support Groups will focus on identifying challenges and personal triggers, importance of mental and physical well being, and creating healthy boundaries and structure.
Photo of Mobin Chadha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMS-II
Hosted by Mobin Chadha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bordentown, NJ 08505
Are you feeling: Stressed? Burnt Out? Anxious? or Depressed? STRENGTH. EMPOWER. CHANGE
(732) 603-1526 View (732) 603-1526
Are you a recent graduate from a Masters' program and need supervision? I will be offering individual and group supervision to those who need to accumulate hours towards licensure.
Photo of Edwige (Eddie) Theokas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, ACS, NCC
Hosted by Edwige (Eddie) Theokas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bordentown, NJ 08505
According to the outside world, you "have it all". But little do they know what is going up there in your head and your heart. You are anxious, stressed and overwhelmed. You have managed to survive the day to day stresses of life, but life is becoming overwhelming for you these days. Something major happens and the trauma and hurts from the past come flooding back into your life. What worked before is no longer working. The laundry is piling up, you've got to make sure the kids get to school on time, your spouse asks you "what's for dinner" and you want to scream. You know there is more. Let me help you transform your life.
(609) 542-2338 View (609) 542-2338
We work intensively to help you navigate the storm of trauma. Instead of working for years on your trauma, we can transform your life in weeks. Intensives are completed in 4-8 hour blocks (typically Fridays), which allow you to process large chunks of traumatic events in a condensed time frame. You can let go and live the life you've always wanted to live.
Photo of Edwige (Eddie) Theokas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, ACS, NCC
Hosted by Edwige (Eddie) Theokas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bordentown, NJ 08505
According to the outside world, you "have it all". But little do they know what is going up there in your head and your heart. You are anxious, stressed and overwhelmed. You have managed to survive the day to day stresses of life, but life is becoming overwhelming for you these days. Something major happens and the trauma and hurts from the past come flooding back into your life. What worked before is no longer working. The laundry is piling up, you've got to make sure the kids get to school on time, your spouse asks you "what's for dinner" and you want to scream. You know there is more. Let me help you transform your life.
(609) 542-2338 View (609) 542-2338

More Groups Nearby

Clinical supervision for LSWs/LACs
Photo of Gina Abbondante, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Gina Abbondante
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Southampton, NJ 08088
Nothing is more important than the way you feel. Whether you see habits and long to change them, or are tired of worn out ways of being, tired of reliving patterns that feel too difficult to confront alone. I can help you find the disconnect between what you are currently experiencing and the person you know you are capable of becoming.
(609) 400-4790 View (609) 400-4790
Rebellious Wellness Counseling is a group of licensed practitioners who believe that in a society that profits from self-doubt, liking yourself is a rebellious act. Being authentic is difficult and sometimes difficult to even understand. We are compassionate, highly trained therapists that want to help you from wherever you are now to reach your goals, achieve your balance, and find your true center.
Photo of Rebecca A Christianson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Hosted by Rebecca A Christianson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Marlton, NJ 08053
Hello! I am Rebecca Christianson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. I am the founder of Rebellious Wellness Counseling in Marlton, NJ. With over 25 years of experience, I specialize in CBT, DBT, person-centered therapy, and rational emotive therapy. I am a private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Among my areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, personality disorders, grief and loss, divorce, and stress management. I work closely with other counselors in my practice including Annette Pineiro and Cierra Wright-Lee, who have additional specialties.
(856) 452-7706 View (856) 452-7706
My in-person divorce support group provides a compassionate space for those navigating the emotional and practical challenges of divorce. Whether you’re facing grief, co-parenting struggles, or rebuilding your life, this group offers guidance, connection, and tools to help you move forward with confidence. Led by a divorce coach and therapist, sessions focus on emotional resilience, communication, and self-growth. You’ll gain insight, support, and a sense of community with others who understand your journey. Whether newly separated or further along, this group empowers you to heal, regain stability, and create a fulfilling new chapter. $200 total
Photo of Amy Hamby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Hosted by Amy Hamby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Moorestown, NJ 08057
I see individuals and couples who are ready to deepen their self-awareness and break free from patterns rooted in past experiences. I work with those who want to understand how their history influences their present, whether in relationships, communication struggles, or personal growth. Together, we’ll explore your needs, uncover deeper insights, and create meaningful, lasting change so you can build healthier connections and a more fulfilling life.
(609) 881-2975 View (609) 881-2975
Yoga helps to integrate the mind and the body. The goal of yoga is to increase flexibility, increase the ability to quiet the mind, and to increase life force energy in the body. If you struggle with depression, anxiety, or PTSD body movement can change your body chemistry and increase positive neurotransmitters. Yoga increases the mind body connection and can be helpful in reducing mental health symptoms, and relaxing the nervous system. In yoga we learn to regulate our breath and manage our reactions. This yoga class will focus on breathing techniques, balance, and flexibility.
Photo of Jennifer Pugliese, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Jennifer Pugliese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Moorestown, NJ 08057
I specialize in working with people who are struggling to live the life they desire due to the effects of traumatic events that happened in their past. Identifying how the past is impacting current functioning and self-beliefs can empower a person to make changes in their life. The goal is to help a person make connections between their past trauma and their current beliefs, emotions, and behaviors, and understand how the body experiences symptoms. The focus is on understanding how a person’s past can affect their present, and increasing the use of resources that can help the person unpack their past and live a more fulfilled life.
(609) 913-2487 View (609) 913-2487
The Hopewell Springs Counseling Center (HSCC) of Marlton, NJ is proud to have a clinical staff comprised of only doctoral level licensed psychologists! We are your South Jersey center for the professional evaluation and treatment of a multitude of psychological issues. In addition to conducting formal psychological evaluations, our psychologists specialize in the professional treatment of anxiety (worries, fears, OCD, panic, trauma, social), depression (sadness, grief, poor self esteem, loss of pleasure, hopelessness), stress and coping deficits, relationship issues, behavioral issues, and more.
Photo of Michael P Ferenschak, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Michael P Ferenschak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Marlton, NJ 08053
Welcome! I am here to help you with your anxiety, depression, relationships, and more. My name is Dr. Mike, and I'm a Licensed Psychologist in NJ and Pennsylvania. My experience includes serving as Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of NJ (UMDNJ). Following my tenure with UMDNJ, I joined the Hopewell Springs Counseling Center and currently serve as the center's Assistant Director. I earned my doctorate in Clinical Psychology from La Salle University, and also completed a fellowship at the VA in Maryland with a focus on evidence-based treatment.
(856) 281-3135 View (856) 281-3135
Weekly psychotherapy coaching sessions offered via zoom. Ongoing group chat via Whatsapp provides additional support in-between calls. Throughout this program, various topics will be covered, including: Body Image & Self Esteem, Self-Talk & Affirmations, Self-Compassion & Forgiveness, Dr. Amy’s Four “L” Method To Coping With Painful Emotions, and much more!
Photo of Amy Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Hosted by Amy Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
It is my life purpose and passion to help others develop inner resilience and self compassion to navigate their deep personal growth journey. I offer both traditional psychotherapy and holistic modalities, giving people HOPE and tools they need to heal emotional wounds and behavioral patterns. I specialize in working with individuals, couples and families who are motivated to have better relationships with themselves and their loved ones.
(609) 473-3857 View (609) 473-3857
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a type of talk therapy offered in a group setting that can support emotional regulation. In this group, we welcome everyone, we lean on each other, and work together towards learning new coping skills. This group is great for many different people experiencing different struggles, but it can particularly support social anxiety, generalized anxiety, life transitions, and relationship communication. This cost-effective approach to therapy offers a sense of community and group healing not offered in 1:1 sessions.
Photo of Rebecca Christianson - Rebellious Wellness Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hosted by Rebellious Wellness Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Group meets in Marlton, NJ 08053
At Rebellious Wellness Counseling (RWC), we believe in the importance of being yourself and living authentically - rebelling against the pressures of who others want you to be and what society makes us believe about success and happiness. We are here to support you in doing the work to be and stay authentic. RWC is a well-known therapy practice in South Jersey founded by Rebecca Christianson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in individual, couples, and family therapy. Rebecca is an interactive, solution-focused therapist. She offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each client.
(856) 644-7669 View (856) 644-7669
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a powerful therapy for individuals who have trouble regulating emotions & behaviors. These groups help replace problematic thought / behavior patterns with more adaptive ways of coping to create a "life worth living." We focus on 4 skills modules: 1) Mindfulness, 2) Distress Tolerance, 3) Emotion Regulation, & 4) Interpersonal Effectiveness. Our Intermediate & Advanced groups integrate didactic skills training with a psychodynamic group process, helping clients utilize existing skill-based knowledge in current life situations. Our next group will launch in Summer 2025.
Photo of Dr. Christopher G. Deussing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, C-DBT
Hosted by Dr. Christopher G. Deussing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
Dr. Deussing has helped many people with a variety of psychological presentations including mood disorders, trauma, grief, addiction, & personality disorders. Currently, three of his primary focuses are Borderline Personality Disorder, Ketamine Therapy, & Men's Mental Health. Dr. Deussing's core competencies are Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Modern Psychoanalysis, & Psychedelic Therapy. He is a creative clinician who uses a humanistic client-centered approach. Dr. Deussing is an expert group facilitator licensed to practice in 6 states (PA, NJ, DE, CO, FL, & HI). He also provides training, supervision, & consultation services.
(215) 478-6815 View (215) 478-6815
The Hopewell Springs Counseling Center (HSCC) of Marlton, NJ is proud to have a clinical staff comprised of only doctoral level licensed psychologists! We are your South Jersey center for the professional evaluation and treatment of a multitude of psychological issues. In addition to conducting formal psychological evaluations, our psychologists specialize in the professional treatment of anxiety (worries, fears, OCD, panic, trauma, social), depression (sadness, grief, poor self esteem, loss of pleasure, hopelessness), stress and coping deficits, relationship issues, behavioral issues, and more.
Photo of Deborah Chiumento, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Deborah Chiumento
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Marlton, NJ 08053
Seeking out a therapist can be difficult, yet it's a courageous first step to bettering your life. My practice is devoted to helping people through life's challenges and transitions using a non-judgmental approach. If you are struggling with self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, or other challenges unique to your life, my collaborative and skills based approach will be helpful for you. I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist in New Jersey with many years of experience in helping people like you. I use evidence based treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
(856) 422-4059 View (856) 422-4059
Girls Loving Our Whole Selves - this is a 5 week program to help young women begin the process to heal and thrive after sexual assault.
Photo of Carolyn Piro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Carolyn Piro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Moorestown, NJ 08057
Hey there - you've taken that first step and are poking around Psychology Today. Or maybe you've been here before and are curious about therapy. That's great. I work with people and couples who understand that therapy is a process and that there are no quick fixes. Most of the people who walk through my doors know that life could be better, but don't quite know how to make that happen. They are ready for change. I work with couples and individuals who believe they have limited options in therapy. You are welcome here. Most of my clients want to address trauma, anxiety, stress, affair recovery, poor communication, and depression.
(609) 622-4246 View (609) 622-4246
Rebellious Wellness Counseling is happy to introduce a fun weekly therapeutic emotion regulation and social skills based group for elementary aged children. The group uses evidenced based cognitive-behavioral approaches and mindfulness strategies to provide clients with the tools they need to reach their goals and manage their emotions. Main areas of focus will be anxiety, self esteem, emotion regulation, impulse control, and social skills.
Photo of Annette M Pineiro (Individuals Families Couples Groups), Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, NCC
Hosted by Annette M Pineiro (Individuals Families Couples Groups)
Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Marlton, NJ 08053
**ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS VIA TELETHERAPY AND IN PERSON** Annette M. Pineiro is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in individual, couples, and family counseling. She provides therapy to clients of any age, race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, and disability. Her goal as a therapist is to create a warm, safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can share their stories. Annette supports her clients to reach realistic goals by providing them with motivation, empathy, and effective coping skills.
(856) 259-1268 View (856) 259-1268
The groups will be design to provide support, healthy socialization and education. Each member will assist the other members in a journey of self discovery and uncover your genuine self.
Photo of Joanne R Fadool - Genuine Me of South Jersey Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Hosted by Genuine Me of South Jersey Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Marlton, NJ 08053
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Life Coach. I have 30 years experience providing crisis intervention, counseling and advocacy services to all aged individuals exposed to childhood trauma and life altering experiences. I provide a safe nurturing environment to help my client heal and provide guidance to assist them in achieving an authentic, productive, rewarding and happier lifestyle.
(609) 372-2086 View (609) 372-2086

See more therapy options for Bordentown

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Bordentown?

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.