Support Groups Directory

Peer support brings together people with shared lived experience of mental illness for mutual support, hope, and recovery. Unlike professional therapy, peer support is led by and for people with mental health conditions. Research from SAMHSA shows peer support improves: hope and empowerment, reduced feelings of isolation, better coping skills, increased engagement with treatment, reduced hospitalizations and emergency room visits, and improved quality of life. Peer support works through shared understanding—only someone who has experienced depression, anxiety, or psychosis truly understands what it feels like. This reduces shame, normalizes struggles, and provides practical strategies from people who have been there.

NAMI Connection is a free, peer-led support group for adults living with mental illness. Groups are led by trained facilitators who themselves have lived experience with mental health conditions. Meetings provide a safe space to share experiences, coping strategies, and mutual support. Open to anyone age 18+ with mental illness including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, OCD, PTSD, and other conditions. NAMI Connection groups meet weekly or monthly throughout Palm Beach and Broward counties. All participants maintain confidentiality. No formal diagnosis required—if you're experiencing mental health challenges, you're welcome.

Finding the right fit may take trying different groups. Consider: (1) Condition-specific vs. general groups - DBSA focuses on depression/bipolar, ADAA on anxiety, while NAMI Connection welcomes all conditions. (2) Format - In-person vs. online, structured curriculum vs. open discussion, peer-led vs. professionally facilitated. (3) Group size and dynamics - Some prefer smaller intimate groups, others like larger community feel. (4) Meeting frequency and location - Choose sustainable commitment given your schedule. (5) Philosophy - 12-step programs (AA/NA) vs. non-12-step (SMART Recovery), recovery-focused vs. symptom management. Try 3-4 meetings before deciding if a group is right for you—first meetings can feel awkward. The right group should feel safe, non-judgmental, and leave you feeling less alone.

Yes—support groups complement professional treatment, they don't replace it. The combination of professional care (medication management, therapy) plus peer support typically produces the best outcomes. Support groups provide ongoing community and practical daily coping strategies, while psychiatry and therapy address clinical symptoms and deeper psychological work. Many providers, including RECO Integrated Psychiatry, actively encourage support group participation as part of comprehensive recovery. Some groups even meet at mental health centers. Be sure to continue prescribed medications and therapy appointments while attending support groups.

Research shows online support groups can be highly effective, with some unique advantages. Benefits of online groups: Accessibility for those with mobility issues, social anxiety, or transportation barriers; Anonymity which may increase openness about sensitive topics; Flexible timing with asynchronous forums available 24/7; Geographic diversity bringing broader perspectives; and Lower barrier to entry for those intimidated by in-person meetings. Benefits of in-person groups: Stronger sense of connection and community; Nonverbal communication and physical presence; Social skills practice; Local resources and friendships; and Less screen time. Many people use both—online for daily support, in-person monthly for deeper connection. Choose what works for your needs and comfort level.

Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) are individuals with lived experience of mental illness who receive specialized training to provide peer support services professionally. Unlike volunteer peer support groups, CPS work in mental health agencies, hospitals, crisis centers, and community programs as paid staff. CPS training (40-80 hours) covers: recovery principles, active listening, boundaries, ethics, trauma-informed care, and how to share personal experience therapeutically. CPS help by: offering hope based on their own recovery, teaching coping skills from personal experience, helping navigate mental health systems, reducing stigma, and supporting treatment engagement. Many insurance plans and Medicaid cover peer support services. Florida certifies peer specialists through the Florida Certification Board.