Support Groups in Floresville, TX

Providing mental health services.
Photo of Mary Ann Sieracki - New Directions Counseling Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LSOTP
Hosted by New Directions Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LSOTP
Group meets in Floresville, TX 78114
Providing mental health services.
(830) 637-7593 View (830) 637-7593

More Groups Nearby

RO DBT Skills class. 30 weeks. 1.5 hours. $65 per class. Class is structured to learn the RO DBT skills.
Photo of Becca Allen - Becca Allen Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CEDS-C, PMH-C, LMHC
Hosted by Becca Allen Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CEDS-C, PMH-C, LMHC
Group meets in Alamo Heights, TX 78209
RO DBT Skills class. 30 weeks. 1.5 hours. $65 per class. Class is structured to learn the RO DBT skills.
(726) 263-3599 View (726) 263-3599
At Succor Urgent Psychiatric Care, we provide fast, compassionate, and expert mental health care when you need it most. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or a crisis, our dedicated team is here to support you. We offer urgent psychiatric evaluations, medication management, crisis intervention, and short-term therapy to help you regain stability and clarity. Your mental health matters, and you don’t have to face it alone. Get the care you deserve—walk in or call today. Relief starts here.
Photo of Ernest Tabi Abunaw - Succor Urgent Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist, MD
Hosted by Succor Urgent Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78212
At Succor Urgent Psychiatric Care, we provide fast, compassionate, and expert mental health care when you need it most. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or a crisis, our dedicated team is here to support you. We offer urgent psychiatric evaluations, medication management, crisis intervention, and short-term therapy to help you regain stability and clarity. Your mental health matters, and you don’t have to face it alone. Get the care you deserve—walk in or call today. Relief starts here.
(210) 981-4007 View (210) 981-4007
Take 2 Counseling offers an 8-week Men's Sex Addiction Support Group for those who are struggling with sexual compulsivity, utilizing Patrick Carnes' workbook, Facing the Shadows. The group meets weekly for 90 minutes over an 8-week period. The cost is $25 per week, plus the cost of the workbook. Please contact us if you are interested in joining a Sex Addiction Support Group.
Photo of Christopher Gulde, Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, MA, LPC , CSAT
Hosted by Christopher Gulde
Licensed Professional Counselor, MD, MA, LPC , CSAT
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78209
Take 2 Counseling offers an 8-week Men's Sex Addiction Support Group for those who are struggling with sexual compulsivity, utilizing Patrick Carnes' workbook, Facing the Shadows. The group meets weekly for 90 minutes over an 8-week period. The cost is $25 per week, plus the cost of the workbook. Please contact us if you are interested in joining a Sex Addiction Support Group.
(210) 361-7887 View (210) 361-7887
Childhood trauma is defined as an event(s) experienced by a child that is emotionally painful, frightening, or distressful, which can lead to lasting mental and physical effects. Symptoms of childhood trauma in adults can include anger, depression, emotional outbursts, addiction, low self-esteem, and social disconnectedness.The group will an provide an open, safe, supportive space for adult survivors of childhood trauma to build connections and friendships while healing from trauma together.
Photo of Christine Rivlin, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, NCC, MA, MS, LPC
Hosted by Christine Rivlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, NCC, MA, MS, LPC
Group meets in La Vernia, TX 78121
Childhood trauma is defined as an event(s) experienced by a child that is emotionally painful, frightening, or distressful, which can lead to lasting mental and physical effects. Symptoms of childhood trauma in adults can include anger, depression, emotional outbursts, addiction, low self-esteem, and social disconnectedness.The group will an provide an open, safe, supportive space for adult survivors of childhood trauma to build connections and friendships while healing from trauma together.
(830) 282-8170 View (830) 282-8170
There Is More Counseling is a virtual therapy practice providing thoughtful, integrative counseling for individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship concerns, and significant life transitions. Therapy here is not about rushing toward quick fixes. It’s about creating a safe, steady space where you can explore your story, strengthen coping skills, and experience meaningful, lasting change. We serve individuals seeking meaningful, long-term growth in a steady and supportive space. Our approach is personalized and draws from evidence-based modalities. Treatment is tailored to each client’s unique experiences, relationships, and goals by focusing on lasting change.
Photo of Macy Durham, Licensed Professional Counselor, M.S., LPC, NCC
Hosted by Macy Durham
Licensed Professional Counselor, M.S., LPC, NCC
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78209
There Is More Counseling is a virtual therapy practice providing thoughtful, integrative counseling for individuals navigating anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship concerns, and significant life transitions. Therapy here is not about rushing toward quick fixes. It’s about creating a safe, steady space where you can explore your story, strengthen coping skills, and experience meaningful, lasting change. We serve individuals seeking meaningful, long-term growth in a steady and supportive space. Our approach is personalized and draws from evidence-based modalities. Treatment is tailored to each client’s unique experiences, relationships, and goals by focusing on lasting change.
(726) 263-0689 View (726) 263-0689
Radius Psychotherapy, PLLC is a San Antonio-based private clinical practice established to provide relational mental health care. The practice operates around a straightforward premise: meaningful change happens when individuals, couples, and groups expand beyond their established comfort zones within a secure, practical therapeutic space. Radius Psychotherapy emphasizes authentic connection, collaborative goal-setting, and direct, real-world application. The clinical philosophy is built on mutual engagement and transparency. Our practitioners prioritize the therapeutic alliance. Theory provides the map, but genuine human connection, active listening, and consistent accountability drive the actual work.
Photo of Adam M Avila, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Hosted by Adam M Avila
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78210
Radius Psychotherapy, PLLC is a San Antonio-based private clinical practice established to provide relational mental health care. The practice operates around a straightforward premise: meaningful change happens when individuals, couples, and groups expand beyond their established comfort zones within a secure, practical therapeutic space. Radius Psychotherapy emphasizes authentic connection, collaborative goal-setting, and direct, real-world application. The clinical philosophy is built on mutual engagement and transparency. Our practitioners prioritize the therapeutic alliance. Theory provides the map, but genuine human connection, active listening, and consistent accountability drive the actual work.
(210) 871-9146 View (210) 871-9146
This summer, join me for workshops exploring Spirituality, Grief and Sexuality. We'll engage these themes through reflection, conversation and embodied practices. We’ll explore the sacred, grief and our sacred sexuality. Through honest conversation, creative and somatic practices, plus the power of community, we will begin to reconnect with ourselves moving toward greater wholeness, compassion and clarity. These workshops are an invitation to explore your Spirituality (June), your Grief (July) or your relationship to your body (August) with care and compassion. Together, we will create a space where the sacred, our losses and our sexuality can be held with dignity and care.
Photo of Beth Stanley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Hosted by Beth Stanley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78209
This summer, join me for workshops exploring Spirituality, Grief and Sexuality. We'll engage these themes through reflection, conversation and embodied practices. We’ll explore the sacred, grief and our sacred sexuality. Through honest conversation, creative and somatic practices, plus the power of community, we will begin to reconnect with ourselves moving toward greater wholeness, compassion and clarity. These workshops are an invitation to explore your Spirituality (June), your Grief (July) or your relationship to your body (August) with care and compassion. Together, we will create a space where the sacred, our losses and our sexuality can be held with dignity and care.
(210) 405-1626 View (210) 405-1626
Positive Relational Couples Therapy (PRCT) is an eight-week virtual, culturally affirming, strength-based group intervention designed to support LGBTQIA+ military couples in strengthening relationships and overall well-being. The program integrates positive psychology (PERMA), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Relational Cultural Theory (RCT), and multicultural and social justice frameworks to address both relational skills and the impact of minority stress. Sessions emphasize building well-being through positive emotions, engagement, meaning, and accomplishment, while later sessions focus on communication, conflict management, intimacy, and shared meaning. Throughout the group, couples explore their intersecting identities and engage in experiential activities promoting emotional connection.
Photo of Crystal Morris, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CSC
Hosted by Crystal Morris
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CSC
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78209
Positive Relational Couples Therapy (PRCT) is an eight-week virtual, culturally affirming, strength-based group intervention designed to support LGBTQIA+ military couples in strengthening relationships and overall well-being. The program integrates positive psychology (PERMA), Gottman Method Couples Therapy, Relational Cultural Theory (RCT), and multicultural and social justice frameworks to address both relational skills and the impact of minority stress. Sessions emphasize building well-being through positive emotions, engagement, meaning, and accomplishment, while later sessions focus on communication, conflict management, intimacy, and shared meaning. Throughout the group, couples explore their intersecting identities and engage in experiential activities promoting emotional connection.
(254) 791-5815 View (254) 791-5815
The Art Way provides a safe, compassionate space for adults to explore creativity, self-expression and community through guided artistic learning and the Open Studio Process. We believe in the power of art to foster personal growth, connection and joy, regardless of experience or skill level. We envision a world where everyone has the opportunity to unlock their artistic potential in a supportive community, using creativity as a tool for self-discovery, healing and meaningful connections. Through The Art Way, we aim to cultivate a space where art is accessible, empowering, and transformative for all.
Photo of Beth Stanley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Hosted by Beth Stanley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78209
The Art Way provides a safe, compassionate space for adults to explore creativity, self-expression and community through guided artistic learning and the Open Studio Process. We believe in the power of art to foster personal growth, connection and joy, regardless of experience or skill level. We envision a world where everyone has the opportunity to unlock their artistic potential in a supportive community, using creativity as a tool for self-discovery, healing and meaningful connections. Through The Art Way, we aim to cultivate a space where art is accessible, empowering, and transformative for all.
(210) 405-1626 View (210) 405-1626
This is a group for men from all walks of life looking to find support and community. Males make up approximately 50% of the population yet account for over 80% of the suicides (per CDC). While this group is not exclusively meant for those dealing with suicidal thoughts, the battle against suicide starts with community support. The aim for this group is to provide a place for men to share, grow, and heal without judgment. We will address topics including but not limited to; self confidence, parenting, divorce / breakups, and lessons learned from lived experiences.
Photo of Campbell Owen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Hosted by Campbell Owen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78209
This is a group for men from all walks of life looking to find support and community. Males make up approximately 50% of the population yet account for over 80% of the suicides (per CDC). While this group is not exclusively meant for those dealing with suicidal thoughts, the battle against suicide starts with community support. The aim for this group is to provide a place for men to share, grow, and heal without judgment. We will address topics including but not limited to; self confidence, parenting, divorce / breakups, and lessons learned from lived experiences.
(726) 237-7806 View (726) 237-7806
Working with providers to process racial trauma in the sand tray
Photo of Alyssa Cedillo, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S, TX/CO
Hosted by Alyssa Cedillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S, TX/CO
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78212
Working with providers to process racial trauma in the sand tray
(210) 762-4715 View (210) 762-4715
Weekly 1 hour. $50 per class. 6 week course. This course has been designed to help moms learn to cope effectively with this new phase of life. Skills will be taught to help address anxiety and depression, along with the many emotions that are common during this time. Other topics that will be addressed will be body image, nutrition, sleep, asserting needs, and navigating the adjustment into motherhood.
Photo of Becca Allen - Becca Allen Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CEDS-C, PMH-C, LMHC
Hosted by Becca Allen Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CEDS-C, PMH-C, LMHC
Group meets in Alamo Heights, TX 78209
Weekly 1 hour. $50 per class. 6 week course. This course has been designed to help moms learn to cope effectively with this new phase of life. Skills will be taught to help address anxiety and depression, along with the many emotions that are common during this time. Other topics that will be addressed will be body image, nutrition, sleep, asserting needs, and navigating the adjustment into motherhood.
(726) 263-3599 View (726) 263-3599
Alpha Mike (Abort Mission): Veteran Society of Suicide Survivors (AM/VS3). Alpha Mike, a therapy group led by retired Army Major (Infantry), former Airborne Ranger (enlisted), with deployments to Colombia and Afghanistan. VS3’s mission: teach veterans the “How” of their suicide ideation; the pathway they took from situation normal to the terminal act of self-destruction. Suicide is a process, not impulsive, nor independent event; it is a decision, a derived ‘path of least resistance’ to end suffering, pain, guilt, shame, etc. Abort Mission! Consolidate and Reorganize, and Reconstitute; Take Charge of Your Life’s Mission!
Photo of Sergio R. Villarreal, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MA, MJA
Hosted by Sergio R. Villarreal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MA, MJA
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78217
Alpha Mike (Abort Mission): Veteran Society of Suicide Survivors (AM/VS3). Alpha Mike, a therapy group led by retired Army Major (Infantry), former Airborne Ranger (enlisted), with deployments to Colombia and Afghanistan. VS3’s mission: teach veterans the “How” of their suicide ideation; the pathway they took from situation normal to the terminal act of self-destruction. Suicide is a process, not impulsive, nor independent event; it is a decision, a derived ‘path of least resistance’ to end suffering, pain, guilt, shame, etc. Abort Mission! Consolidate and Reorganize, and Reconstitute; Take Charge of Your Life’s Mission!
(830) 999-2308 View (830) 999-2308
Why join a group? Most people struggle in some way in their relationships, whether it be feeling unsatisfied, disconnected, or trapped in the same patterns. Group therapy provides a safe environment that allows group members to develop a deeper understanding of how and why they interact with others in the way that they do, and how at times they might get in their own way when pursuing relationship goals. Group therapy also serves as a relationship “laboratory” where members can try out new ways of relating to themselves and others.
Photo of Jacob Pickard, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Jacob Pickard
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78202
Why join a group? Most people struggle in some way in their relationships, whether it be feeling unsatisfied, disconnected, or trapped in the same patterns. Group therapy provides a safe environment that allows group members to develop a deeper understanding of how and why they interact with others in the way that they do, and how at times they might get in their own way when pursuing relationship goals. Group therapy also serves as a relationship “laboratory” where members can try out new ways of relating to themselves and others.
(210) 526-0456 View (210) 526-0456
This a Christian faith based group utilizing the book "Breaking Free On The Wings Of Forgiveness." Group members will dive into the life trials presented in the book and reflect on similar life trials in their lives relating to forgiveness. Members will explore their typical responses and how those relate to their faith and biblical view. Group Tentative schedule will be Tues nights from 7:30pm-8:30 pm lasting for 8 weeks. If interested, please email or call to be placed on the waiting list.
Photo of Erica Felisa Thompson - Beneath The Surface Therapy Solutions LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Hosted by Beneath The Surface Therapy Solutions LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Group meets in Converse, TX 78109
This a Christian faith based group utilizing the book "Breaking Free On The Wings Of Forgiveness." Group members will dive into the life trials presented in the book and reflect on similar life trials in their lives relating to forgiveness. Members will explore their typical responses and how those relate to their faith and biblical view. Group Tentative schedule will be Tues nights from 7:30pm-8:30 pm lasting for 8 weeks. If interested, please email or call to be placed on the waiting list.
(210) 742-5136 View (210) 742-5136
Just as your body requires daily nourishment and excercise, so does your mind. Constant thoughts and worries can cause our minds to decay and draw us away from our center and creativity. The mind fitness group meets to increase mind power through meditation, energy work, mindfulness and mind-body relaxation. You will learn how to stop excessive and intrusive thoughts, calm your mind, recover its strength and purity and explore the depths of your true self.
Photo of Khadijat Quadri, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, NCC, CHT, LCMHC
Hosted by Khadijat Quadri
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, NCC, CHT, LCMHC
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78228
Just as your body requires daily nourishment and excercise, so does your mind. Constant thoughts and worries can cause our minds to decay and draw us away from our center and creativity. The mind fitness group meets to increase mind power through meditation, energy work, mindfulness and mind-body relaxation. You will learn how to stop excessive and intrusive thoughts, calm your mind, recover its strength and purity and explore the depths of your true self.
(919) 283-3692 View (919) 283-3692
A FREE Support Group for those who have Lost a Loved One to Suicide This safe and confidential space provides support as we navigate the complex journey of grief together. Losing a loved one to suicide can feel isolating, but here, you are not alone. In this group, you can openly express emotions, share experiences, and connect with others who understand. We offer coping strategies, resources, and a nurturing community for your unique grieving process. Confidentiality is a priority, ensuring a trusted and safe environment for all. Together, we can honor our loved ones, find strength, and support each other on the path to healing.
Photo of Kelly Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Hosted by Kelly Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Group meets in Schertz, TX 78154
A FREE Support Group for those who have Lost a Loved One to Suicide This safe and confidential space provides support as we navigate the complex journey of grief together. Losing a loved one to suicide can feel isolating, but here, you are not alone. In this group, you can openly express emotions, share experiences, and connect with others who understand. We offer coping strategies, resources, and a nurturing community for your unique grieving process. Confidentiality is a priority, ensuring a trusted and safe environment for all. Together, we can honor our loved ones, find strength, and support each other on the path to healing.
(210) 314-1606 View (210) 314-1606
DBT has emerged as a highly effective evidenced based treatment. It targets under-controlled or emotionally dysregulated behavior through a skills-based approach that addresses the needs of individuals who struggle with strong and difficult emotions, impulsivity, and chaos in their lives. Standard treatment includes weekly individual and group therapy. The skills groups are made up of 4 modules (a total of 24 weeks): core mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. You can enter and leave the class at the beginning of a module. Visit https://www.sanantoniodbtcbt.com for current class times.
Photo of Lori Prado - Center for Dialectical & Cognitive Behav Therapies, Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC-S, LCSW, PsyD
Hosted by Center for Dialectical & Cognitive Behav Therapies
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC-S, LCSW, PsyD
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78209
DBT has emerged as a highly effective evidenced based treatment. It targets under-controlled or emotionally dysregulated behavior through a skills-based approach that addresses the needs of individuals who struggle with strong and difficult emotions, impulsivity, and chaos in their lives. Standard treatment includes weekly individual and group therapy. The skills groups are made up of 4 modules (a total of 24 weeks): core mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. You can enter and leave the class at the beginning of a module. Visit https://www.sanantoniodbtcbt.com for current class times.
(210) 742-4282 View (210) 742-4282
We are an exclusively virtual group that operates in Texas and Virginia. We are trauma focused in our approach. We serve English and Spanish speaking clients
Photo of Kristee Barker - SanaVida TeleCounseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-DBT
Hosted by SanaVida TeleCounseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, C-DBT
Group meets in San Antonio, TX 78209
We are an exclusively virtual group that operates in Texas and Virginia. We are trauma focused in our approach. We serve English and Spanish speaking clients
(726) 263-3022 View (726) 263-3022

See more therapy options for Floresville

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Floresville?

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.