NAMI support groups are completely free and donations are never expected.  NAMI is committed to providing free services and programs to all who need them.

NAMI support groups that meet in person do not require advance registration. Registration with a valid email address is required for online groups that meet through Zoom. Check our [online support group calendar] for updates about any group cancellations.

Our support group listings specify who is welcome at each support group. Some groups are for individuals with a specific mental health condition, experience, or identity. Some are for family and friends of someone with a mental health condition, and some are open to anyone with a connection to mental illness. If it is not clear from the description whether a particular group is appropriate for you, you are welcome to contact us to ask.

Our support groups are led by trained peer volunteers who are also a member of that particular support group. Their role is to help guide the meetings so that they are as useful and supportive as possible for all attendees. Group leaders might share resources, or describe what worked or did not work for them in the past, but always in the role of a peer and not an expert.

No. Group therapy is run by a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor. In a support group all participants – including the facilitators – are treated as equals. No one attends as, or acts as, a therapist, expert or clinician.

No, unlike our educational classes which have set content, what gets discussed at each support group depends on what the group attendees bring up during check-in or during the discussion. If you would like to have a conversation around a specific topic or question, you can mention it to the facilitator. 

• Someone will greet you and share how the group is set up. Facilitators in virtual groups display a presentation with the agenda and other necessary information for easy reference.
• For in-person groups, you may be given a nametag so that everyone can remember names. In virtual groups, you will be listed as the name you registered under (you may update this during the meeting). You may also add your pronouns.
• For in person groups, there is a sign-in sheet asking for basic information; this is to help NAMI Seattle keep a count of how many people attend our support groups. You are not required to share any information you’re uncomfortable sharing. NAMI Seattle will not share your information with anyone. (Virtual group registration occurs prior to the group starting.)
• As the group begins, people will take turns to read the group guidelines and principles of support. You may decline to read if you do not feel comfortable doing so. Talk to a facilitator if there are any accessibility issues.
• Everyone is given an opportunity to briefly introduce themselves and share a bit about how they’re doing for 1-2 minutes (you may decline if you are uncomfortable sharing).
• The group discussion begins after check-ins.

No. No one is required to speak. Everyone has the option to decline to speak.  If you do choose to share,  your information will never be shared outside of the group. You may use only your first name if this makes you more comfortable.

• To decrease isolation and stigma, to find community and understanding

• To share information, keeping each other up to date on news

• To find role models, and to act as a role model for others. Meeting others who are struggling with similar issues and making progress in their lives can be inspiring and encouraging

• To get new ideas about how to overcome challenges

• To have a safe place to talk about deeply personal issues, experiences, problems, thoughts, fears, and achievements

• To gain support and assistance on your recovery journey

• To reduce anxiety, increase hope, and help your sense of overall well-being