Support Groups in Centerville, UT

Center for Growth and Potential provides comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, adults and families here in Utah. Our professionally trained and licensed staff are devoted to helping you manage life's difficulties and learn healthy ways to process relationships and emotions.
Photo of Alana Jacobs-Davis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, BC
Hosted by Alana Jacobs-Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, BC
Group meets in Centerville, UT 84014
Center for Growth and Potential provides comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, adults and families here in Utah. Our professionally trained and licensed staff are devoted to helping you manage life's difficulties and learn healthy ways to process relationships and emotions.
(385) 213-1052 View (385) 213-1052
Center for Growth and Potential provides comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, adults and families here in Utah. Our professionally trained and licensed staff are devoted to helping you manage life's difficulties and learn healthy ways to process relationships and emotions.
Photo of Dr. John Perovich, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Dr. John Perovich
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Centerville, UT 84014
Center for Growth and Potential provides comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, adults and families here in Utah. Our professionally trained and licensed staff are devoted to helping you manage life's difficulties and learn healthy ways to process relationships and emotions.
(385) 442-9746 View (385) 442-9746
The Center for Growth and Potential provides comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, and families in Utah. Our professionally trained and licensed staff are devoted to helping you manage life's difficulties and stress and learn healthy ways to process relationships and emotions. We help you understand yourself and others and thereby achieve optimal success. We help children and adolescents achieve success with their friends, families, and in school and sports. We are proud that for many years we have served our military personnel and their families.
Photo of Russell Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CMHC
Hosted by Russell Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CMHC
Group meets in Centerville, UT 84014
The Center for Growth and Potential provides comprehensive mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, and families in Utah. Our professionally trained and licensed staff are devoted to helping you manage life's difficulties and stress and learn healthy ways to process relationships and emotions. We help you understand yourself and others and thereby achieve optimal success. We help children and adolescents achieve success with their friends, families, and in school and sports. We are proud that for many years we have served our military personnel and their families.
(801) 614-7114 View (801) 614-7114
Currently taking names for the next group starting in January. This small, in person, group is for women looking for healing around partner’s out of control sexual behaviors-OCSB (i.e. porn or sex addiction). This attachment-based group will provide a safe place to process experiences and build support. Participants will learn more about OCSB, reduce trauma, create values-based and sex-positive agreements, improve communication, and make intentional decisions about relationships. Because group is time limited, participants must commit to all 8 sessions. 1 individual intake session is required to prepare for group ($200).
Photo of Alice Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Hosted by Alice Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Group meets in Centerville, UT 84014
Currently taking names for the next group starting in January. This small, in person, group is for women looking for healing around partner’s out of control sexual behaviors-OCSB (i.e. porn or sex addiction). This attachment-based group will provide a safe place to process experiences and build support. Participants will learn more about OCSB, reduce trauma, create values-based and sex-positive agreements, improve communication, and make intentional decisions about relationships. Because group is time limited, participants must commit to all 8 sessions. 1 individual intake session is required to prepare for group ($200).
(801) 316-8168 View (801) 316-8168
GROUP STARTING IN SEPTEMBER. This ONLINE group is for women in UT or ID looking for healing around partner’s out of control sexual behaviors-OCSB (i.e. porn or sex addiction). This attachment-based group will provide a safe place to process and build support. Participants will learn about OCSB, reduce trauma, create values-based and sex-positive agreements, improve communication, and make intentional decisions about relationships. Because group is time limited, participants must commit to all 8 sessions. 2 individual sessions are required before starting group.
Photo of Alice Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Hosted by Alice Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CST
Group meets in Centerville, UT 84014
GROUP STARTING IN SEPTEMBER. This ONLINE group is for women in UT or ID looking for healing around partner’s out of control sexual behaviors-OCSB (i.e. porn or sex addiction). This attachment-based group will provide a safe place to process and build support. Participants will learn about OCSB, reduce trauma, create values-based and sex-positive agreements, improve communication, and make intentional decisions about relationships. Because group is time limited, participants must commit to all 8 sessions. 2 individual sessions are required before starting group.
(801) 316-8168 View (801) 316-8168
A retreat is held once a month to help women explore their values, use those values to express their wants, and develop healthy boundary setting, grounding skills, and practical communication skills. Clients will practice the content learned in class through discussions, dance, mindfulness, outdoor activities, group role-plays, and games. PRIVATE PAY RETREAT $10.00. NEXT GROUP ON: April 15, 2023, from 10 am to 1 pm
Photo of Sandra Chacon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Sandra Chacon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Centerville, UT 84014
A retreat is held once a month to help women explore their values, use those values to express their wants, and develop healthy boundary setting, grounding skills, and practical communication skills. Clients will practice the content learned in class through discussions, dance, mindfulness, outdoor activities, group role-plays, and games. PRIVATE PAY RETREAT $10.00. NEXT GROUP ON: April 15, 2023, from 10 am to 1 pm
(385) 458-8795 View (385) 458-8795
Photo of Kelly Morse, Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Kelly Morse
Counselor, LPC
Group meets in Centerville, UT 84014
(801) 421-9878 View (801) 421-9878

More Groups Nearby

Offering two separate groups that can me attended concurrently. One focuses on psychoeducation and the other on support/connection. The psychoeducation group is a prerequisite to the support/connection. To learn more, refer to my website > Offerings > Group. Website is listed in my Psychology Today profile. After reading about the details on my website, reach out if you are interested!
Photo of Korilynn C. Bartley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CMHC, NCC
Hosted by Korilynn C. Bartley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CMHC, NCC
Group meets in South Jordan, UT 84095
Offering two separate groups that can me attended concurrently. One focuses on psychoeducation and the other on support/connection. The psychoeducation group is a prerequisite to the support/connection. To learn more, refer to my website > Offerings > Group. Website is listed in my Psychology Today profile. After reading about the details on my website, reach out if you are interested!
(385) 262-8282 View (385) 262-8282
Yoga for Addiction is a donation-based ($15 suggested donation) group based on the principles of 12 step recovery and the ancient wisdom of yoga. You can expect 45 minutes or so of beginner-friendly yoga followed by a 45 minute 12 Step meeting. The 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are used with permission. First Wednesday of each month we practice a long guided iRest Meditation for deep relaxation and restoration in place of a physical yoga practice. Open to ANYONE struggling with ANY addiction or impacted by the addictive behaviors of others (friends/family).
Photo of Steven R Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Steven R Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Salt Lake City, UT 84115
Yoga for Addiction is a donation-based ($15 suggested donation) group based on the principles of 12 step recovery and the ancient wisdom of yoga. You can expect 45 minutes or so of beginner-friendly yoga followed by a 45 minute 12 Step meeting. The 12 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are used with permission. First Wednesday of each month we practice a long guided iRest Meditation for deep relaxation and restoration in place of a physical yoga practice. Open to ANYONE struggling with ANY addiction or impacted by the addictive behaviors of others (friends/family).
(801) 717-9905 View (801) 717-9905
Encompass Life Therapy offers support for a wide range of mental and emotional health challenges: Trauma and PTSD: Including complex trauma, sexual trauma, medical trauma, and attachment trauma. Anxiety and Mood Disorders: Such as depression, anxiety disorders, and perinatal mental health conditions. Life Adjustments and Grief & Loss: Comprehensive support for processing grief and navigating significant life changes. Other Concerns: Addressing ADHD, OCD, relationship challenges, personality disorders, self-harming behaviors, and self-image struggles.
Photo of Heather Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Hosted by Heather Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Group meets in Layton, UT 84041
Encompass Life Therapy offers support for a wide range of mental and emotional health challenges: Trauma and PTSD: Including complex trauma, sexual trauma, medical trauma, and attachment trauma. Anxiety and Mood Disorders: Such as depression, anxiety disorders, and perinatal mental health conditions. Life Adjustments and Grief & Loss: Comprehensive support for processing grief and navigating significant life changes. Other Concerns: Addressing ADHD, OCD, relationship challenges, personality disorders, self-harming behaviors, and self-image struggles.
(801) 760-4874 View (801) 760-4874
Heroes Within – Kids (Ages 8–12) is an in-person art therapy group designed to support emotional expression, self-confidence, and resilience through creative exploration. Using the metaphor of the “hero,” children engage in art-making to explore emotions, strengths, challenges, and problem-solving skills in a supportive group setting. Group is facilitated by a graduate art therapy intern, under supervision of a licensed art therapist, and offers structure, and peer connection while honoring each child’s developmental needs. A brief parent consultation is required prior to enrollment.
Photo of Hollie Anderson, Art Therapist, CMHCi, ATRi
Hosted by Hollie Anderson
Art Therapist, CMHCi, ATRi
Group meets in Murray, UT 84107
Heroes Within – Kids (Ages 8–12) is an in-person art therapy group designed to support emotional expression, self-confidence, and resilience through creative exploration. Using the metaphor of the “hero,” children engage in art-making to explore emotions, strengths, challenges, and problem-solving skills in a supportive group setting. Group is facilitated by a graduate art therapy intern, under supervision of a licensed art therapist, and offers structure, and peer connection while honoring each child’s developmental needs. A brief parent consultation is required prior to enrollment.
(385) 483-5523 View (385) 483-5523
Our Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Group in Ogden is a structured, skills-based program designed to help you build effective coping strategies. Sections include emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. This group provides a supportive environment to learn and practice skills, leading to lasting behavioral change and improved quality of life. Participants can opt for participating in the full comprehensive DBT program, which includes individual therapy, skills group, and phone coaching, or a standalone skills group depending on your needs. We have both a day group and night group option to fit your schedule. Insurance / Medicaid accepted!
Photo of Elyssa Stubblefield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Elyssa Stubblefield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Ogden, UT 84401
Our Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Group in Ogden is a structured, skills-based program designed to help you build effective coping strategies. Sections include emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness. This group provides a supportive environment to learn and practice skills, leading to lasting behavioral change and improved quality of life. Participants can opt for participating in the full comprehensive DBT program, which includes individual therapy, skills group, and phone coaching, or a standalone skills group depending on your needs. We have both a day group and night group option to fit your schedule. Insurance / Medicaid accepted!
(385) 475-2629 View (385) 475-2629
Check out gingergrovecollective.com for details on our upcoming free Samhain-themed event to introduce the group. Ginger Grove Systems Circle is a biweekly peer support group for DID systems in the Salt Lake area. We focus on internal communication, system cooperation, skill-building, and reducing isolation. Evidence-based support grounded in the ISSTD Phase-Oriented Treatment Model and trauma-informed care. All parts welcome. We honor each alter's autonomy with the goal of multiple functionality—not integration. Biweekly, 2-hour sessions. Pricing: drop-in ($60), 6-session package ($300), or 12-session package ($550). Individual therapy with a licensed therapist is required.
Photo of Annelise Parkes Murphy - Ginger Grove Collective, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Hosted by Ginger Grove Collective
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Group meets in South Jordan, UT 84095
Check out gingergrovecollective.com for details on our upcoming free Samhain-themed event to introduce the group. Ginger Grove Systems Circle is a biweekly peer support group for DID systems in the Salt Lake area. We focus on internal communication, system cooperation, skill-building, and reducing isolation. Evidence-based support grounded in the ISSTD Phase-Oriented Treatment Model and trauma-informed care. All parts welcome. We honor each alter's autonomy with the goal of multiple functionality—not integration. Biweekly, 2-hour sessions. Pricing: drop-in ($60), 6-session package ($300), or 12-session package ($550). Individual therapy with a licensed therapist is required.
(385) 284-0334 View (385) 284-0334
Creative Relief is a 9-week art therapy group for teens (ages 14–18) living with chronic pain or illness. In a supportive, creative space, participants explore emotions, build coping tools, and connect with peers who understand. Each session blends guided art-making, mindfulness, and reflection to support self-expression and stress relief. No art experience needed. Meets Thursdays 5:00-6:30 PM, Nov 13–Jan 22 at Radiant Mind Wellness in Murray, UT. Co-facilitated by Jonelle Edwards, ACMHC, ATR-P and Hollie Anderson, Art Therapy Intern. Supervised by Kate Wingard, LCMHC, ATR-BC, Clinical Director.
Photo of Jonelle Edwards, Counselor, ACMHC, ATR-P
Hosted by Jonelle Edwards
Counselor, ACMHC, ATR-P
Group meets in Murray, UT 84107
Creative Relief is a 9-week art therapy group for teens (ages 14–18) living with chronic pain or illness. In a supportive, creative space, participants explore emotions, build coping tools, and connect with peers who understand. Each session blends guided art-making, mindfulness, and reflection to support self-expression and stress relief. No art experience needed. Meets Thursdays 5:00-6:30 PM, Nov 13–Jan 22 at Radiant Mind Wellness in Murray, UT. Co-facilitated by Jonelle Edwards, ACMHC, ATR-P and Hollie Anderson, Art Therapy Intern. Supervised by Kate Wingard, LCMHC, ATR-BC, Clinical Director.
(801) 666-2193 View (801) 666-2193
Role-Playing Games (RPG) are on the rise in popularity, seems like you can't toss a D10 without it running into a new tabletop game system. I am using RPGs to work through trauma, addiction, build community, and practice social skills. Email and tell me what you're working on. Players will complete a campaign together to accomplish their goals as teammates. Every campaign is planned individually for the group, based on every member's needs. $300 for an 8 week campaigns, 1.5 hours each session. Join online or in person.
Photo of Dwight Hurst, Counselor, CMHC, SSW
Hosted by Dwight Hurst
Counselor, CMHC, SSW
Group meets in Layton, UT 84041
Role-Playing Games (RPG) are on the rise in popularity, seems like you can't toss a D10 without it running into a new tabletop game system. I am using RPGs to work through trauma, addiction, build community, and practice social skills. Email and tell me what you're working on. Players will complete a campaign together to accomplish their goals as teammates. Every campaign is planned individually for the group, based on every member's needs. $300 for an 8 week campaigns, 1.5 hours each session. Join online or in person.
(801) 658-0426 View (801) 658-0426
We offer a five week group using sublingual ketamine to facilitate growth and change. We endorse a clinical ritual approach to healing. You are the medicine! And, we utilize the neuroplasticity available from the ketamine while bringing the therapeutic components of psychotherapy. Why do we run it as a group? Because being witnessed and heard is fundamental to healing.
Photo of Jaime Bringhurst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Jaime Bringhurst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Murray, UT 84107
We offer a five week group using sublingual ketamine to facilitate growth and change. We endorse a clinical ritual approach to healing. You are the medicine! And, we utilize the neuroplasticity available from the ketamine while bringing the therapeutic components of psychotherapy. Why do we run it as a group? Because being witnessed and heard is fundamental to healing.
(385) 304-3575 View (385) 304-3575
Amaryllis Counseling offers a structured Assertiveness Class designed to help you communicate your needs, thoughts, and boundaries with confidence and clarity. In this class, you will learn practical, evidence-based skills to express yourself effectively while maintaining respect for others. Participants will build self-awareness, challenge patterns of passivity or aggression, and develop healthy communication strategies. The class focuses on setting boundaries, improving relationships, and increasing confidence in personal and professional interactions. Whether you struggle to speak up or want to refine your communication style, this program supports lasting change in a supportive, skills-based environment.
Photo of Elyssa Stubblefield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Elyssa Stubblefield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Ogden, UT 84401
Amaryllis Counseling offers a structured Assertiveness Class designed to help you communicate your needs, thoughts, and boundaries with confidence and clarity. In this class, you will learn practical, evidence-based skills to express yourself effectively while maintaining respect for others. Participants will build self-awareness, challenge patterns of passivity or aggression, and develop healthy communication strategies. The class focuses on setting boundaries, improving relationships, and increasing confidence in personal and professional interactions. Whether you struggle to speak up or want to refine your communication style, this program supports lasting change in a supportive, skills-based environment.
(385) 475-2629 View (385) 475-2629
A New View Counseling offers mental health services in a warm, comfortable and professional setting. We have a diverse group of therapists with a broad array of specialties.
Photo of Kathrine Parnell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASDCS
Hosted by Kathrine Parnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ASDCS
Group meets in Riverton, UT 84065
A New View Counseling offers mental health services in a warm, comfortable and professional setting. We have a diverse group of therapists with a broad array of specialties.
(801) 658-9418 View (801) 658-9418
Therapy group for those working with addictive, compulsive, and self-destructive coping with Trauma or other mental health issues. Designed for those working towards sobriety from unhealthy practices, including sex addiction, drug or alcohol abuse, gambling, or other compulsive and addictive behavior.
Photo of Dwight Hurst, Counselor, CMHC, SSW
Hosted by Dwight Hurst
Counselor, CMHC, SSW
Group meets in Layton, UT 84041
Therapy group for those working with addictive, compulsive, and self-destructive coping with Trauma or other mental health issues. Designed for those working towards sobriety from unhealthy practices, including sex addiction, drug or alcohol abuse, gambling, or other compulsive and addictive behavior.
(801) 658-0426 View (801) 658-0426
Have you ever thought, "I don't get friendship!" Our 6-week, LGBTQ+ and neuro-affirming therapeutic groups are designed to help neurodivergent adults build authentic, unmasked friendships—on your own terms. This 6-week, closed-cohort group rewrites the social “script” and building connections in ways that honor neurodivergent needs, communication styles, and nervous systems. No neurotypical-based skills training to "fit-in". Just real humans learning real relational skills together. Group 1: Friendship & Improv. Group 2: Friendship group for women, femmes and gender expansive folx. Call, text, or email for questions! 801-432-0015, office@neurdiclinic.com
Photo of Sarah Theresa MacCombie - The Neurodiversity Clinic, Occupational Therapist, OTL, CMHC
Hosted by The Neurodiversity Clinic
Occupational Therapist, OTL, CMHC
Group meets in Millcreek, UT 84106
Have you ever thought, "I don't get friendship!" Our 6-week, LGBTQ+ and neuro-affirming therapeutic groups are designed to help neurodivergent adults build authentic, unmasked friendships—on your own terms. This 6-week, closed-cohort group rewrites the social “script” and building connections in ways that honor neurodivergent needs, communication styles, and nervous systems. No neurotypical-based skills training to "fit-in". Just real humans learning real relational skills together. Group 1: Friendship & Improv. Group 2: Friendship group for women, femmes and gender expansive folx. Call, text, or email for questions! 801-432-0015, office@neurdiclinic.com
(385) 206-6357 View (385) 206-6357

See more therapy options for Centerville

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Centerville?

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.