One major difference between self-help gr0Ups and therapy is cost. Professional therapy, by definition, involves people who are reimbursed for their time. Self-help groups are usually free, though they welcome donations. While therapy groups usually meet in clinics or professional offices, self-help meetings take place wherever adequate (and, one hopes, free) space can be found.

A self-help group usually does not screen members; anyone may join. In contrast, a support group or a professionally led group may ask that prospective members meet with leaders before attending to make sure that there is a “fit.” Attendance at self-help groups is voluntary; therapy group members are expected to show up.

A handful of self-help groups require their members to participate in some kind of professional therapy. Most make no such demand, although they sometimes encourage their members to get other help. This can be especially important in dealing with eating disorders, since these are sometimes life-threatening illnesses that require a doctor’s attention.

Having a professional involved with a self-help group is both a blessing and a curse. In the “plus” column, professionals are usually up to date on the latest information. They can teach useful skills relating to self-esteem, assertiveness, and better communication. Professional leaders can often help by developing meeting guidelines and then stepping back from the group while remaining available for consultations as needed.

In the “minus” column, a group may feel it must surrender its autonomy to the professional. Members may thus forget the original goal, which was to look to them for support. Professionals may confuse self-help with group therapy, and lose sight of the needs of group members.

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