Vetting a Support Group

Vetting a Support Group or Organization: How to Find the Right Fit

Finding a trustworthy, helpful support group can be life-changing—but it’s important to know what to look for and how to vet what’s out there. Whether you’re seeking healing, education, community, or simply a space to be heard, this guide helps you choose a group that matches your values and needs.

1. Clarify Your Goals First

Before you begin your search, take time to reflect on the kind of support you need. Ask yourself:

  • What are you hoping to gain from a support group?
    • Emotional support?
    • Coping strategies?
    • Parenting guidance?
    • Cultural connection (e.g., transracial adoption)?
    • Search & reunion support?
  • What are you not comfortable with?
    • Religious affiliations?
    • Clinical settings?
    • Peer-only groups?

Knowing your needs helps you narrow your search and avoid groups that aren’t a fit.

2. Are You Open to Working with an Agency or Independent Group?

Some people prefer to attend groups hosted by the agency that facilitated their adoption (or their child’s). Others may feel more comfortable in independent or adoptee-led spaces.

  • Pros of Agency-Affiliated Groups: Familiarity, access to professional resources
  • Cons: May carry bias or lack diverse perspectives

If you’re unsure, start with an independent listing site like:

3. Frequency, Format & Location Preferences

How often do you want to meet?
Some groups meet weekly, others monthly, or only during certain seasons. Ask about the schedule before joining.

Do you prefer in-person or virtual?

  • Virtual groups offer flexibility and broader access (especially if you live in a rural area).
  • In-person groups may offer stronger relational connection and structure.

Look for options on platforms like:

4. Religious vs. Secular Groups

Some adoption support groups are affiliated with a specific religion or denomination, often Christianity. These groups may integrate prayer, scripture, or faith-based practices.

  • Be sure to check the group’s website, mission statement, or sponsoring organization to understand their spiritual orientation.
  • Ask: “Is this group faith-based? If so, what does that look like in meetings?”

For non-religious, adoptee-centered support:

5. Peer-Led vs. Clinician-Led Support

Peer-Led Support Groups

  • Informal and often free
  • Run by individuals with lived experience
  • Offer connection and empathy, not therapy
  • Can be harder to vet (no licensing required)

Examples:

Clinician / Therapist-Led Groups

  • Facilitated by professionals (e.g., LCSW, LPC, LMFT, Ph.D.)
  • Often structured with discussion topics, goals, and group agreements
  • May be covered by insurance or offered through adoption-competent clinics

Check for credentials like:

  • LCSW: Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • LPC: Licensed Professional Counselor
  • LMFT: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
  • MSW: Master of Social Work
  • Ph.D. or Psy.D.: Clinical psychologist
  • Certified Adoption Competent Therapist (via C.A.S.E.)

6. Teen and Youth Support Groups

Teen adoptees often benefit from structured groups with trained facilitators due to their developmental stage and vulnerability.

  • These groups are often clinician-led for liability reasons
  • Some may involve adventure therapy, art therapy, or family workshops

Resources:

7. Questions You Should Ask Before Joining

Don’t hesitate to reach out! A trustworthy group or organization will gladly answer your questions.

Ask:

  • Who facilitates the group? What is their background?
  • Is it peer-led or clinician-led?
  • What are the meeting expectations or group guidelines?
  • Is this group focused on a specific topic (e.g., transracial adoption, open adoption)?
  • Is the group faith-based or secular?
  • What safety and confidentiality measures are in place?

8. Vetting Tips

  • Search the facilitator’s name + credentials on LinkedIn, Psychology Today, or a state license board
  • Look for Google Reviews or testimonials
  • Trust your gut—if something feels off, it’s okay to walk away
  • Be cautious of any group that makes grand promises, asks for money upfront with no transparency, or discourages you from seeking outside help

9. Directories & Networks to Start With