I have never been involved with any support groups. The fundamental
question occuring to me is to what extent is a support group supposed
to be more like group therapy (moderated by a psychological or
counseling professional, organized, directed, etc.) and to what
extent is it to be more of a social gathering and networking on a
less formal basis?

Some of the comments I have read from this particular discussion
indicate that some have benefitted from forming relationships with
group members, whereas others are speaking of more structured
therapeutic concepts.

Perhaps those who are trying to form a group, in particular, might
wish to speak to the point as to what precisely they are
envisioning. Those who have prior experiences with support groups
might also be able to enlighten me.

James