Support Groups in Bee Cave, TX

Our ketamine-assisted therapy group offers a supportive space for healing through non-ordinary states of consciousness. Led by a psychiatrist and therapist team, the group blends high or low dose ketamine with guided reflection, somatic awareness, and integrative processing. It’s ideal for those navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, or emotional numbness who feel called to go deeper than talk therapy alone. Each session is held in a calm setting that encourages rest and insight, with oneself and others. Participants often leave with greater clarity, emotional ease, and a renewed sense of inner worth. Prior individual intake required before joining.
Photo of Qazi Javed - Blossom Ketamine, Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, ABIHM
Hosted by Blossom Ketamine
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, ABIHM
Group meets in Bee Cave, TX 78738
Our ketamine-assisted therapy group offers a supportive space for healing through non-ordinary states of consciousness. Led by a psychiatrist and therapist team, the group blends high or low dose ketamine with guided reflection, somatic awareness, and integrative processing. It’s ideal for those navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, or emotional numbness who feel called to go deeper than talk therapy alone. Each session is held in a calm setting that encourages rest and insight, with oneself and others. Participants often leave with greater clarity, emotional ease, and a renewed sense of inner worth. Prior individual intake required before joining.
(512) 489-1691 View (512) 489-1691

More Groups Nearby

We provide mental health services including counseling/therapy and medication management. We accept most major commercial insurance plans, and try to get people in to see someone within a week. www.therapy-unlocked.com
Photo of Toby Collins - Therapy Unlocked, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Hosted by Therapy Unlocked
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Group meets in Round Rock, TX 78665
We provide mental health services including counseling/therapy and medication management. We accept most major commercial insurance plans, and try to get people in to see someone within a week. www.therapy-unlocked.com
(737) 727-3813 View (737) 727-3813
Adult therapy group for survivors of domestic violence who want to better understand the impact violence has had on themselves and their lives. Together, we will think about the messages we have received about violence and love. We get curious about those messages and explore how they have impacted our beliefs. Along the way we will learn a lot, feel a lot, and find strength in each other. Hopefully we will recognize new possibilities and uncover truths, too. Sessions include grounding and breathing exercises. Guide includes key information and questions, plus companion reflection prompts.
Photo of Ellen Payne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Ellen Payne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Round Rock, TX 78665
Adult therapy group for survivors of domestic violence who want to better understand the impact violence has had on themselves and their lives. Together, we will think about the messages we have received about violence and love. We get curious about those messages and explore how they have impacted our beliefs. Along the way we will learn a lot, feel a lot, and find strength in each other. Hopefully we will recognize new possibilities and uncover truths, too. Sessions include grounding and breathing exercises. Guide includes key information and questions, plus companion reflection prompts.
(512) 881-8673 View (512) 881-8673
Join the Queer Tarot Club Processing Therapy Group! :) Every Tuesday from 5-6:30 PM (virtually), LGBTQ+ individuals come together in a safe, supportive space to explore emotions and gain insight. Bring in a personal issue, and dive deep into symbolic imagery through tarot, while processing thoughts and feelings. Our group fosters connection and peer relationship-building, allowing members to share, reflect, and grow together. Whether you're a tarot enthusiast or new to it, this group is a welcoming space to explore your inner world with others who understand. Join us and discover the power of collective healing! <3
Photo of Angel Bierce, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Angel Bierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Group meets in Austin, TX 78701
Join the Queer Tarot Club Processing Therapy Group! :) Every Tuesday from 5-6:30 PM (virtually), LGBTQ+ individuals come together in a safe, supportive space to explore emotions and gain insight. Bring in a personal issue, and dive deep into symbolic imagery through tarot, while processing thoughts and feelings. Our group fosters connection and peer relationship-building, allowing members to share, reflect, and grow together. Whether you're a tarot enthusiast or new to it, this group is a welcoming space to explore your inner world with others who understand. Join us and discover the power of collective healing! <3
(830) 476-5912 View (830) 476-5912
This is a virtual group therapy for up to 6 patients who have either been in ED outpatient or post discharge. The focus of the group therapy is to continue the support, and tools to manage ED, and to engage in mind/body technique using medical extended reality. Using Thera VR™ , patients will process, engage with the therapist all using VR remotely. Patients will learn both CBT and DBT to work on improving both negative through processes, and healthy coping skills. This group is only offered for Texas state residents. Patients must have access to a headset ( Meta , PICO or HTC).
Photo of Erin Bogdanski - Offices Of Erin Bogdanski LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEO
Hosted by Offices Of Erin Bogdanski LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CEO
Group meets in Austin, TX 78759
This is a virtual group therapy for up to 6 patients who have either been in ED outpatient or post discharge. The focus of the group therapy is to continue the support, and tools to manage ED, and to engage in mind/body technique using medical extended reality. Using Thera VR™ , patients will process, engage with the therapist all using VR remotely. Patients will learn both CBT and DBT to work on improving both negative through processes, and healthy coping skills. This group is only offered for Texas state residents. Patients must have access to a headset ( Meta , PICO or HTC).
(510) 948-3340 View (510) 948-3340
This is an internal experience, led by Stephanie, to heal and let go of baggage that no longer serves you. Breakthrough Emotional Barriers, Repair Inner-child, Align with Self-Love while enjoying the live sounds from Sound Practitioner Natalie Ramos-Hernandez. All are welcome! Reach out for more questions or visit our website for more details.
Photo of Stephanie Cruz-Trevino - Vital Insight: EMDR-Brainspotting-SomaticTherapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Hosted by Vital Insight: EMDR-Brainspotting-SomaticTherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Group meets in Austin, TX 78735
This is an internal experience, led by Stephanie, to heal and let go of baggage that no longer serves you. Breakthrough Emotional Barriers, Repair Inner-child, Align with Self-Love while enjoying the live sounds from Sound Practitioner Natalie Ramos-Hernandez. All are welcome! Reach out for more questions or visit our website for more details.
(512) 872-2293 View (512) 872-2293
Austin men’s support group for connection, confidence, and real relationships. In-person, therapist-led men’s therapy group. Led by two licensed therapists trained in attachment-based and trauma-informed care, this men’s therapy group focuses on helping participants develop healthier relationships — with themselves and with others. Rather than advice-giving or debate, the group emphasizes real connection, emotional awareness, and mutual support. Topics may include: (1) Loneliness and social connection (2) Self-worth, shame, and confidence (3) Emotional regulation and communication (4) Anger, grief, and unmet needs (5) Boundaries, dating, and relationships (6) Building a sense of belonging and purpose
Photo of Phoebe Cocetti, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , LPC-A
Hosted by Phoebe Cocetti
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , LPC-A
Group meets in Austin, TX 78704
Austin men’s support group for connection, confidence, and real relationships. In-person, therapist-led men’s therapy group. Led by two licensed therapists trained in attachment-based and trauma-informed care, this men’s therapy group focuses on helping participants develop healthier relationships — with themselves and with others. Rather than advice-giving or debate, the group emphasizes real connection, emotional awareness, and mutual support. Topics may include: (1) Loneliness and social connection (2) Self-worth, shame, and confidence (3) Emotional regulation and communication (4) Anger, grief, and unmet needs (5) Boundaries, dating, and relationships (6) Building a sense of belonging and purpose
(512) 640-0442 View (512) 640-0442
Losing a pet is a profound loss — and one that's often minimized by others. Whether you've recently lost a beloved companion or are still carrying grief from years ago, this group offers a safe, compassionate space to be fully seen in your sorrow. Each month we gather online to share, reflect, and support one another through the unique experience of pet loss. Sessions draw on evidence-based grief frameworks and gentle, structured activities designed to help you process loss at your own pace. Free Monthly Online Group | Open to Texas Residents
Photo of Ann Cleland, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Hosted by Ann Cleland
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Group meets in Austin, TX 78723
Losing a pet is a profound loss — and one that's often minimized by others. Whether you've recently lost a beloved companion or are still carrying grief from years ago, this group offers a safe, compassionate space to be fully seen in your sorrow. Each month we gather online to share, reflect, and support one another through the unique experience of pet loss. Sessions draw on evidence-based grief frameworks and gentle, structured activities designed to help you process loss at your own pace. Free Monthly Online Group | Open to Texas Residents
(737) 352-4136 View (737) 352-4136
This is a weekly therapy group for adult male-identifying individuals who are interested in processing emotions, practicing vulnerability and healthy relationship skills, and connecting with other men in a way that is often not easily accessed in everyday life. Goals of the group are to share feelings and emotions, connect deeply, build community, explore masculinity and cultural roles, give and receive support, improve self-expression, alleviate anxiety, and build confidence.
Photo of Jen Hill, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Hosted by Jen Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Group meets in Austin, TX 78759
This is a weekly therapy group for adult male-identifying individuals who are interested in processing emotions, practicing vulnerability and healthy relationship skills, and connecting with other men in a way that is often not easily accessed in everyday life. Goals of the group are to share feelings and emotions, connect deeply, build community, explore masculinity and cultural roles, give and receive support, improve self-expression, alleviate anxiety, and build confidence.
(512) 831-4867 View (512) 831-4867
This group offers an intensive approach to teaching Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills- these skills focus on Mindfulness, Relationship Effectiveness, Regulating Emotions & Distress Tolerance. As teens learn these skills they are able to navigate life in a more wise, healthy and effective way! An IOP is great for those who might be struggling to make progress in individual therapy or are needing step-down care. Call us today if you think your teen could benefit from these skills!
Photo of Jimmy And Josh Myers - The Timothy Center, Treatment Center, PhD, LPC-S, CSAT-C2, PA-C
Hosted by The Timothy Center
Treatment Center, PhD, LPC-S, CSAT-C2, PA-C
Group meets in Austin, TX 78759
This group offers an intensive approach to teaching Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills- these skills focus on Mindfulness, Relationship Effectiveness, Regulating Emotions & Distress Tolerance. As teens learn these skills they are able to navigate life in a more wise, healthy and effective way! An IOP is great for those who might be struggling to make progress in individual therapy or are needing step-down care. Call us today if you think your teen could benefit from these skills!
(512) 598-4960 View (512) 598-4960
Virtual only weekly Narcissistic Abuse Recovery process group. Join others who 'get it' and process through relationship trauma. Facilitated by Catherine Castillo, therapist at Onyx Counseling and Wellness Center. Each group is $70. Held on Thursdays from 6pm-7:30pm.
Photo of Courtney Loyola - Courtney Loyola Onyx Counseling & Wellness Ctr, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Courtney Loyola Onyx Counseling & Wellness Ctr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Austin, TX 78704
Virtual only weekly Narcissistic Abuse Recovery process group. Join others who 'get it' and process through relationship trauma. Facilitated by Catherine Castillo, therapist at Onyx Counseling and Wellness Center. Each group is $70. Held on Thursdays from 6pm-7:30pm.
(737) 204-3769 View (737) 204-3769
The following was written by the group: "We are a processing group for trans men and transmasculine people (folx questioning also welcome) in all stages and desires of transition. We pride ourselves on our commitment to our own best mental health, our willingness to challenge and hold each other accountable and the compassionate space we hold for each other's vulnerabilities. If you are seeking community, support, companionship, and communication with like-minded individuals, please consider joining us."
Photo of Noah Garcia - NextQuest Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hosted by NextQuest Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Group meets in Austin, TX 78736
The following was written by the group: "We are a processing group for trans men and transmasculine people (folx questioning also welcome) in all stages and desires of transition. We pride ourselves on our commitment to our own best mental health, our willingness to challenge and hold each other accountable and the compassionate space we hold for each other's vulnerabilities. If you are seeking community, support, companionship, and communication with like-minded individuals, please consider joining us."
(512) 229-9087 View (512) 229-9087
Is your lack of self-confidence preventing you from meeting personal goals for important areas in your life such as your relationships and career? This group will provide the support you need as you learn how to motivate yourself and take risks to improve your feelings of self-worth.
Photo of Anne R Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Hosted by Anne R Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Group meets in Austin, TX 78759
Is your lack of self-confidence preventing you from meeting personal goals for important areas in your life such as your relationships and career? This group will provide the support you need as you learn how to motivate yourself and take risks to improve your feelings of self-worth.
(512) 649-0096 View (512) 649-0096
This group is open to adults who struggle with any type of anxiety--worry, panic, social anxiety, OCD, health anxiety or other challenges. The group focuses on the concepts and skills that can be applied to all anxiety issues. Example topics are identifying and changing unhelpful ways of thinking, facing avoided and feared situations, and communicating effectively; The “Anxious in Austin” group offers the unique opportunity of learning new ways of coping with your anxiety while connecting with and receiving support from others like you. If anxiety has made you feel alone and misunderstood, this group may be what you are looking for.
Photo of Diana Elaine Damer - Anxiety Treatment Center of Austin, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Anxiety Treatment Center of Austin
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Austin, TX 78757
This group is open to adults who struggle with any type of anxiety--worry, panic, social anxiety, OCD, health anxiety or other challenges. The group focuses on the concepts and skills that can be applied to all anxiety issues. Example topics are identifying and changing unhelpful ways of thinking, facing avoided and feared situations, and communicating effectively; The “Anxious in Austin” group offers the unique opportunity of learning new ways of coping with your anxiety while connecting with and receiving support from others like you. If anxiety has made you feel alone and misunderstood, this group may be what you are looking for.
(512) 649-0027 View (512) 649-0027
Our elementary social skills program runs for 12-weeks during the Fall and Spring, for children ages 10-12. Each 2-hour group session is limited to 6 participants. We use a broad and flexible framework based on the groups shared interests: Canvas art curriculum, ACT Matrix, and AIM (Accept, Identify, Move) to explore and practice elements of psychological flexibility and social emotional learning (SEL) in a fun and casual way. ***This group is appropriate for any elementary-aged child who may enjoy a small group setting with opportunities to interact, learn, and practice skills within a neurodivergent safe-space
Photo of Erin Lopez-Brooks, MEd, BCBA, LBA, IBA
Hosted by Erin Lopez-Brooks
Verified Verified
Group meets in Round Rock, TX 78664
Our elementary social skills program runs for 12-weeks during the Fall and Spring, for children ages 10-12. Each 2-hour group session is limited to 6 participants. We use a broad and flexible framework based on the groups shared interests: Canvas art curriculum, ACT Matrix, and AIM (Accept, Identify, Move) to explore and practice elements of psychological flexibility and social emotional learning (SEL) in a fun and casual way. ***This group is appropriate for any elementary-aged child who may enjoy a small group setting with opportunities to interact, learn, and practice skills within a neurodivergent safe-space
(512) 488-4284 View (512) 488-4284
In this group, the emphasis is on process: our reactions, urges, and beliefs evoked by others. By being in a warm group environment, we are able to discover and work with many parts of ourselves that impact our relationships. You can expect a rewarding experience of developing meaningful connection and rich insights. This group is ideal for people who: --feel stuck in their individual therapy --want to explore their most authentic selves --feel dissatisfied, anxious, or overwhelmed by social interactions in their lives --experience overwhelm, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulty, and/or low self-confidence --seek an affordable option for ongoing therapy.
Photo of Kalee Gower, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Kalee Gower
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Austin, TX 78703
In this group, the emphasis is on process: our reactions, urges, and beliefs evoked by others. By being in a warm group environment, we are able to discover and work with many parts of ourselves that impact our relationships. You can expect a rewarding experience of developing meaningful connection and rich insights. This group is ideal for people who: --feel stuck in their individual therapy --want to explore their most authentic selves --feel dissatisfied, anxious, or overwhelmed by social interactions in their lives --experience overwhelm, depression, anxiety, relationship difficulty, and/or low self-confidence --seek an affordable option for ongoing therapy.
(512) 561-0393 View (512) 561-0393
7-10 women working on empowering one another to explore vulnerability while building inner resilience to manage external pressures. We use breath work, bilateral stimulation and inner child work to release old wounds and generate new ways of being. ***Reach out as we are creating a wait list for the next program!
Photo of Stephanie Cruz-Trevino - Vital Insight: EMDR-Brainspotting-SomaticTherapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Hosted by Vital Insight: EMDR-Brainspotting-SomaticTherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Group meets in Round Rock, TX 78664
7-10 women working on empowering one another to explore vulnerability while building inner resilience to manage external pressures. We use breath work, bilateral stimulation and inner child work to release old wounds and generate new ways of being. ***Reach out as we are creating a wait list for the next program!
(512) 872-2293 View (512) 872-2293
Based on Renee Trudeau's book, A Mothers Guide to Self Renewal: How to reclaim, rejuvenate and re-balance your life. These groups are structured coaching programs designed for women at all life stages. Topics include: reconnecting with who you are, strategies and insights for balanced living, managing your energy, saying no and asking for help, the transformative power of self care, reclaiming adventure and unleashing your creativity.
Photo of Christie Sprowls, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Christie Sprowls
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Austin, TX 78704
Based on Renee Trudeau's book, A Mothers Guide to Self Renewal: How to reclaim, rejuvenate and re-balance your life. These groups are structured coaching programs designed for women at all life stages. Topics include: reconnecting with who you are, strategies and insights for balanced living, managing your energy, saying no and asking for help, the transformative power of self care, reclaiming adventure and unleashing your creativity.
(512) 649-9371 View (512) 649-9371
We aren’t meant to carry everything alone—healing thrives in connection. While individual therapy is powerful, there’s something special about being truly seen in a group. This group can help you to deepen self-awareness and understanding, empowering you to show up more authentically and confidently in your relationships. Healing together can be transformative. Join us in this in-person therapy group for BIPOC folks (including biracial and multiracial individuals). Cost: Optum + Aetna accepted; $60 Private Pay with sliding scale available (3-month minimum commitment). Join at any time!
Photo of Purna Bajekal, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Purna Bajekal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Group meets in Austin, TX 78756
We aren’t meant to carry everything alone—healing thrives in connection. While individual therapy is powerful, there’s something special about being truly seen in a group. This group can help you to deepen self-awareness and understanding, empowering you to show up more authentically and confidently in your relationships. Healing together can be transformative. Join us in this in-person therapy group for BIPOC folks (including biracial and multiracial individuals). Cost: Optum + Aetna accepted; $60 Private Pay with sliding scale available (3-month minimum commitment). Join at any time!
(737) 530-8123 View (737) 530-8123
Loss is everywhere and it affects everything. This 8 week group is designed to provide tools and community to help manage the varied emotions that come with grief. Often, the grief journey is scary and chaotic like a tidal wave, this group offers a boat to help keep you afloat.
Photo of Julie James, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Hosted by Julie James
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Group meets in Pflugerville, TX 78660
Loss is everywhere and it affects everything. This 8 week group is designed to provide tools and community to help manage the varied emotions that come with grief. Often, the grief journey is scary and chaotic like a tidal wave, this group offers a boat to help keep you afloat.
(512) 861-8293 x5 View (512) 861-8293 x5

See more therapy options for Bee Cave

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Bee Cave?

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.