The NAMI Connection Recovery Support Group Program is a peer-based, mutual support group program for any adult living with a mental illness. Connection groups provide a place for individuals who have in common the experience of living with mental illness, to share experiences and use them as learning opportunities. Groups are a safe space to confront the challenges that all people face, regardless of diagnosis.

Each group: 

• Meets weekly for 90 minutes
• Is offered free of charge to NAMI members and non-members alike
• Follows a flexible structure without an educational format
• Does not recommend or endorse any medications or other medical therapies or modalities
• Is facilitated by trained people living in recovery

All groups are confidential; participants can share as much or as little personal information as they wish. Connection groups maintain a positive atmosphere through sincere, uncritical acceptance modeled by the facilitators, the guideline to “keep it in the here and now,” and the invitation for group members to share “what has worked” for them. 

These groups provide a place that offers respect, understanding, encouragement, and hope. Connection groups should add to, and not replace, the treatment plans determined by individuals and their mental health care provider.