Support Groups
Support and self-help groups have been found to be virtually as effective as professional counseling and treatment for some types of conditions. And a recent research review has confirmed they are effective to a significant degree for a wide range of problems and disorders, ranging from chronic illness to addiction.

Whether or not they involve people with actual disorders, support groups facilitate the self-acceptance necessary for change and growth or healing. And they provide a safety net for people who can't obtain professional help. Many professionals have found that these groups are also important adjuncts to therapy. Because of their low cost and their role in reducing healing and recovery time, they should receive much more support than they do at present.

A paper entitled a Review of Research on the Effectiveness of Self-Help Mutual Aid Groups is provided here as a resource for support groups in obtaining such funding.