Why Peer Support Changes Lives
Peer support is backed by decades of research (SAMHSA, CDC, WHO) showing it reduces isolation, increases hope, and improves long-term outcomes. Philosophically, it echoes the ancient idea that shared experience is the deepest form of understanding – and medically, it builds the recovery capital essential for lasting wellness.
Every survivor can become a guide for others. This 2025 guide is fully accessible and designed to help you find the exact support you need – fast.
Feel the Power of Connection
Real people, real hope – just like the communities you’ll discover.
Start Your Journey with WillowCherry.org
Before diving into the list, visit the evergreen source of inspiration: WillowCherry.org – a certified peer specialist’s legacy of hope, justice, and recovery wisdom.
Top 100 Peer Support Resources – Categorized (2025)
Mental Health Peer Support (1-20)
- SAMHSA – National Mental Health & Recovery Resources
- NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness
- Mental Health America – Peer Programs
- CDC Mental Health Resources
- NIMH – National Institute of Mental Health
- ADAA Online Support Groups
- DBSA – Depression & Bipolar Support Alliance
- LiveWell Foundation – Free Peer Groups
- HeyPeers – Free Online Peer Support
- UW Psychiatry Online Peer Groups
- Mental Health Foundation UK
- Mind UK – Mental Health Support
- Beyond Blue Australia
- Black Dog Institute – Australia
- SAMHSA Peer Support Workers
- NAMI Support Groups Locator
- MHA Peer Support Directory
- Psychology Today Support Group Search
- 7 Cups – Free Emotional Support
- Talkspace Peer Communities
LGBTQ+ Peer Support (21-30)
- The Trevor Project – LGBTQ+ Youth
- TrevorSpace – LGBTQ+ Youth Community
- PFLAG – Family & Allies Support
- GLAAD – LGBTQ+ Resources
- LGBTQ Nation Support Directory
- Trans Lifeline – Peer Support
- It Gets Better Project
- LGBT National Help Center
- Stonewall UK
- Switchboard LGBTQ+ UK
Addiction & Recovery Peer Support (31-40)
- Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)
- Narcotics Anonymous (NA)
- SMART Recovery
- Refuge Recovery
- LifeRing Secular Recovery
- Women for Sobriety
- Co-Dependents Anonymous (CoDA)
- Gamblers Anonymous
- SAMHSA National Helpline
- Recovery.org – Peer Resources
Veterans & Military Peer Support (41-50)
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
- Wounded Warrior Project
- Vets4Warriors – 24/7 Peer Support
- VA PTSD Peer Support
- Blue Star Families
- Guardian Revival – First Responder & Vet Peers
- Team RWB – Veteran Community
- Military OneSource
- Al-Anon Family Groups (Vet-Friendly)
- SAFE Project – Veteran Recovery
Chronic Illness & Disability Peer Support (51-60)
- Center for Chronic Illness
- NORD – Rare Diseases
- Autoimmune Institute
- Generation Patient – Chronic Illness Peers
- Mayo Clinic Support Group Guide
- HeyPeers Chronic Illness Groups
- Arthritis Foundation Support
- American Diabetes Association
- American Cancer Society – Peer Support
- Lupus Foundation of America
Youth & Young Adult Peer Support (61-70)
- NAMI Youth & Young Adult Programs
- Youth MOVE National
- TalkCampus – College Student Peers
- JED Foundation – Campus Mental Health
- Teen Line – Youth Hotline
- Boys Town National Hotline
- Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline
- Crisis Text Line
- Mental Health First Aid – Youth
- Active Minds – Student Mental Health
Global & Specialized Peer Support (71-100)
- Global Mental Health Peer Network
- Intentional Peer Support
- HeyPeers – Global Online Groups
- National Association of Peer Supporters
- International OCD Foundation
- OCD Action UK
- RAINN – Sexual Assault Support
- National Domestic Violence Hotline
- Peer Support Canada
- World Federation for Mental Health
- ENUSP – European Survivors
- ILGA World – LGBTQ+ Rights
- Mental Health Innovation Network
- Global Peer Solutions
- Group Peer Support Trauma Recovery
- Psychology Today – Therapist & Group Directory
- Reddit – r/peer_support
- Reddit – r/MentalHealthSupport
- Reddit – r/lgbt (Community Support)
- Reddit – r/stopdrinking
- Reddit – r/recovery
- Reddit – r/ChronicIllness
- Reddit – r/veterans
- Reddit – r/PTSD
- Reddit – r/anxiety
- Reddit – r/depression
- Reddit – r/bipolar
- Reddit – r/OCD
- Reddit – r/EatingDisorders
- Reddit – r/GriefSupport
Professional Therapy Options 2025
Why Professional Therapy Matters
Professional therapy, delivered by licensed therapists (psychologists, LCSWs, LMFTs, LPCs, psychiatrists), is one of the most effective ways to address mental health challenges. Research from the American Psychological Association and NIH shows therapy significantly reduces symptoms of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more.
Major Types of Professional Therapy
| Therapy Type | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) | Anxiety, depression, OCD, insomnia | Structured, goal-oriented; focuses on changing negative thought patterns |
| Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) | Borderline personality disorder, emotional dysregulation | Mindfulness + skills training |
| EMDR | PTSD, trauma, phobias | Bilateral stimulation to process traumatic memories |
| Psychodynamic Therapy | Relationship patterns, unresolved childhood issues | Explores unconscious feelings and past experiences |
| Family & Couples Therapy | Relationship conflict, family dynamics | Systems-based approach involving multiple people |
How to Find a Licensed Therapist (2025)
- Psychology Today Directory – Largest searchable database
- TherapyDen – Inclusive, progressive therapists
- Inclusive Therapists – BIPOC, LGBTQ+, neurodivergent-affirming
- Zocdoc – Book appointments online
Online Therapy Platforms & Costs
- BetterHelp – $65–$100/week
- Talkspace – Text + video; accepts many insurances
- Open Path Collective – Low cost ($30–$80/session)
Insurance: Most major plans (Blue Cross, Aetna, Cigna, Medicare) now cover therapy. Check your benefits.