Support Groups in Medford, NJ

Research shows the likelihood long-term recovery increases significantly if loved ones are actively involved. Families can sign up on HOPETRACKER.ORG for free access to a 10-session course on addiction. You also get a community of thousands of other families to offer advice on questions like "should I be prescription testing?" or "how do I know when they hit 'rock bottom'?"
Photo of Pamela Tambini - Ambrosia Treatment Center, Treatment Center, MSW
Hosted by Ambrosia Treatment Center
Treatment Center, MSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Group meets in Medford, NJ 08055
Don't settle for any generic treatment center. You deserve care that actually helps you stay sober for good and recover from mental health challenges. Backed by 10-years of experience, 10K+ success stories, hundreds of verified positive online reviews and partnerships with both the NFL and university researchers, Ambrosia is the change you've been looking for. Offering dual diagnosis and trauma treatment programs. We specialize in treating substance abuse, depression, anxiety, bi-polar disorder, PTSD, ADHD and other cases.
(855) 291-8336 View (855) 291-8336
Practice
Photo of Tricia-Leigh Brunner, Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Tricia-Leigh Brunner
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Medford, NJ 08055
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am an Imago relationship expert specializing in individual and couples therapy. I've helped numerous couples reconnect, build healthy marriages and work through the challenges of divorce and finding love again. At the core of my work is an integrative approach that helps women and men accept themselves more and connect to others in meaningful ways. My experience in private practice and community mental health settings provides individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship issues with a collaborative coaching approach.
(973) 556-4054 View (973) 556-4054

More Groups Nearby

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
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
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
Being in a room with others who also struggle with similar things to you can be validating and incredibly supportive. Have you been diagnosed with PTSD and struggle to understand why you have the reactions that you have? Come and learn about the biology of trauma and ways to cope with the symptoms of PTSD. This informative group is held on Thursday nights at 6pm in person. The group must have a minimum of 3 people to run.
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
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 specializes in working with people who suffer with anxiety & depression & who have considered suicide. The facilitators use various techniques to teach participants ways to manage their symptoms outside of group meetings. Struggling with these issues can often cause feelings of shame, guilt and embarrassment, which can lead to detachment from friends, family and other important relationships. This group allows for connection with others battling the same things in order to lessen the feelings of isolation. This is a closed group that meets for 6 weeks, starting April 9th 2020. Full Participation required. HSA & FSA accepted for payment. Call Now to reserve your space.
Photo of Help For Parents Network Inc - HELP for Parents Network, Inc, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, BC-TMH
Hosted by HELP for Parents Network, Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS, BC-TMH
Not Verified Not Verified
Group meets in Mount Laurel, NJ 08054
The HELP for Parents Network passionately serves the emotional needs of adults, children, couples and families, who are struggling to cope with the demands of their everyday life. Our mental health counseling services are tailored to the needs of the individual client or family. We meet people where they are and help them to reach their full potential, regardless of their challenges. We offer sessions in the office, online via video or chat and in some cases we can meet in your home. Our evaluations are not covered by insurance. We will be happy to provide you with a Superbill to present to your insurance company for reimbursement.
(609) 400-4170 View (609) 400-4170
At the end of the day, are you left with restless thoughts, increased anxiety added stress and frustrations? It can make for a difficult evening and a turbulent time in bed when trying to sleep. Come in and let us help you unwind your mind. Our Guided Meditation sessions are meant to help you let go of the day so you can transition home and be present for your life after work. This is an excellent way to release the stress from the week and start your weekend relaxed and calm. Cost $8.00 per class. Register on line at mindfulhealthacupuncture.com
Photo of Lori Posner - Center for Mindful Health and Acupuncture, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Hosted by Center for Mindful Health and Acupuncture
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Marlton, NJ 08053
Lori Posner, MS, LMFT provides individual, couples, family therapy and clinical supervision. At CMHA, Lori has partnered with other therapists who share her vision. We bring together a wide range of experiences and education to tailor approaches for individual, couple and family needs. Relational therapies can improve communication, result in better conflict resolution skills and deepen understanding of each other's perspectives. We treat a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, grief, infidelity, parent child conflict, and build parenting teams. For more information contact Lori at the number above.
(856) 446-5088 View (856) 446-5088
Have you been hurt by your husband's sexual betrayal/infidelity? Do you feel lost wishing you could connect with other women of God who've experienced similar pain? Studies reveal that we heal best when we have people in our lives who know our story but are still “happy to be with us"-people who will listen without judging even if we hurt. That kind of safety grows attachment bonds, which produce joy, becoming one of our tools for healing. This group commits to putting God at the center while showing up in love for one another & ourselves.
Photo of Rebecca Tocco, Pastoral Counselor, CpastC, ORDM, NCCA, APS
Hosted by Rebecca Tocco
Pastoral Counselor, CpastC, ORDM, NCCA, APS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Moorestown, NJ 08057
As an Ordained Minister, Certified Clinical Pastoral Counselor & Spiritual Coach my style is one filled with compassion, warmth & authenticity. I believe in giving people a safe place to let their guard down and be vulnerable, while being heard and understood. I love helping others grow into a deeper relationship with God. I desire to walk along side of marriages & offer them tools to work through seasons of hardship. I long to bring hope to those wrestling with codependency, rejection, loneliness, depression, anxiety, and self-worth. I'm passionate about seeing those in addiction set free and those affected by the addiction healed.
(609) 293-5740 View (609) 293-5740
Narcissistic abuse can erode your sense of identity and leave you doubting your emotions, needs, and experiences. This group offers a safe and supportive space to process the effects of chronic invalidation and emotional manipulation. Together we will explore ways to rebuild self-trust, strengthen boundaries, and untangle the confusion left behind. Through connection and shared understanding, you will begin to reclaim your voice and your truth. Healing in community is powerful, and you do not have to navigate this alone. This group is a place to feel seen, supported, and understood as you begin to move forward.
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
building support and encouragement through sharing our experiences, strength and hope. developing a community of people who are working through depression and anxiety as well so you know you're not alone. Setting goals and accountability for positive changes in thought and behavior.
Photo of Michael Wood, Pastoral Counselor
Hosted by Michael Wood
Pastoral Counselor
Verified Verified
Group meets in Moorestown, NJ 08057
I seek to help people who struggle in life with depression, anxiety(fear), unhealthy thought patterns, feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities, loneliness, trouble in relationships and marriages, and the impact of past traumas.
(609) 793-8875 View (609) 793-8875
Inner Balance Psychology Center is a practice that provides individual, couples, family and group therapy to children, adolescents and adults. We specialize in many psychological disorders including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, childhood behavioral and learning disorders, grief/loss, trauma, relationship problems, women' issues, divorce/separation and family discord.
Photo of Dawn Raffa, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Dawn Raffa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Marlton, NJ 08053
I provide an empathetic, supportive and caring atmosphere to assist my clients in developing trust to work collaboratively on finding realistic solutions to their problems using evidence based treatment. My treatment approaches include CBT, ACT and ERP for individuals suffering from various disorders and psychological distress. In addition, to psychotherapy, I conduct psychological evaluations/testing, psychoeducational testing, ADHD evaluations, independent medical evaluations and biofeedback. Moreover, I have a background with PIP and workman's comprehension clients as well as with parent coordination.
(609) 997-9708 View (609) 997-9708
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 Cierra Wright-Lee, Counselor
Hosted by Cierra Wright-Lee
Counselor
Verified Verified
Group meets in Marlton, NJ 08053
Listennn! I'm here to help! Igotchu boo! Seriously, certain days and experiences are harder for some than others. No matter the issue, if it is big for you, then it is important, and deserves an objective listening ear coupled with some "real talk" from someone who cares deeply for your well-being. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma, parent-child relational issues, millennial 'tings', or the struggles of simply BEING in these days and times, please allow me to help. The heart of my work is always to highlight and elevate the beauty, diversity, capability, and creativity of individuals.
(856) 386-5474 View (856) 386-5474
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
A stress-busting, fun-loving group program for children and teens that teaches mindfulness and positive coping skills.
Photo of Meg Clark Soriano - Center for Counseling and Education LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, RPT-S
Hosted by Center for Counseling and Education LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Group meets in Marlton, NJ 08053
We are a compassionate and highly skilled team of therapists committed to providing personalized care for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Our practice is widely respected for offering cutting-edge therapeutic services in a warm, supportive, and confidential setting. We take pride in developing tailored treatment plans that honor each client's unique history, strengths, and individual needs.
(856) 362-4001 View (856) 362-4001
Counseling and Mental health
Photo of Valsamma Joy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Hosted by Valsamma Joy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Palmyra, NJ 08065
I have the most experience working with the adult population. My ideal client is not someone with a specific diagnosis or past experience. It is someone who is battling something within them and is seeking a helping hand to hold on. Treatment with the most appropriate medication can help a person overcome and persevere. I hope to work with patients who really want to make a change in their lives. I like to treat my patients holistically with medications that safely help them. I hope that my patients seek my guidance because they want to challenge themselves. Together, we can make tomorrow a better day.
(732) 440-3016 View (732) 440-3016
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
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
Hello! I invite you to join us, the first and third Saturday of the month, for mom-to-mom. We are hoping to create a space to give and receive support, parenting strategies, stress management techniques, and anything else that arises with motherhood. We welcome all moms from all stages of motherhood. Please reserve your spot-- limited space is available-- Hope to see you there!
Photo of Caitlin Archibald, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Hosted by Caitlin Archibald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Moorestown, NJ 08057
When individuals experience trauma or significant life stressors, it is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or as though things are coming apart at the seams. My passion is to assist people in feeling a little less overwhelmed and in becoming a little more put back together each week. I work with children, adults, couples, and families who wish to move toward feeling content, whole, and safe- both within themselves and with each other.
(856) 347-3048 View (856) 347-3048

See more therapy options for Medford

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Medford?

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.