Is a Support Group Right for Me?

Every person has a moment in their lives when they may need a little outside help, someone who understands or has been there before, or a place to share like minded issues with those who have experienced similar circumstances. That's where a support group comes in.

What is a support group?

A support group, unlike counseling, is not directed therapy. While a counselor or trained therapist does sometimes moderate a support group, most of the time support groups are not directed therapy sessions. If a counselor does moderate a support group, their main function is to keep the discussions flowing, make sure no one has issues that should be addressed outside the group, and to keep members from verbally attacking each other.

Support groups are, as the name implies, a place for like minded people who are dealing with similar issues to come together and provide support to one another. Through a sharing of ideas, thoughts, feelings and experiences, many in a support group can learn new coping techniques, strategies for trying new things in tough situations, and if nothing else, can learn that they are not alone in any given situation.

How is a support group different than counseling?

Counseling is usually one-on-one or in small groups who work together or live together, and is guided by a counselor to seek specific outcome and affect behavior and mood changes in the client.

A support group is different in that support groups are not looking to affect change as much as to provide understanding support from peers who have dealt or are dealing with situations everyone in the group has in common. That's why support groups usually have specific topics for which the group is centered upon.

Counseling is therapist led; support groups are usually member led, with a moderator who may or may not be a counselor.

What are different types of support groups?

There are as many different types of support groups as there are people, issues and situations. Whenever a significant percentage of the population experiences an issue that is difficult to handle alone, a support group may be one outlet for emotional healing, support and friendship.