false

Classes, Events and Support Groups

Find listings for classes, events, and support groups hosted by hospitals throughout the Mass General Brigham system. While some are for patients-only, many are open to all members of the public. Click on the topics below to learn more.
style
palette-deep-blue
showJumplinks
true

Brigham and Women's Hospital and Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital

Childbirth and Parenting

For any questions, concerns or financial assistance, please email smcnamara1@bwh.harvard.edu or call 617-275-1738.

Lung Cancer

The Brigham and Women's Hospital Lung Transplant Program includes a dedicated social worker and financial coordinator. In addition to providing valuable assessments during your evaluation for transplant, these team members can provide you with information related to available resources, fundraising opportunities, and other assistance with the psychological and financial demands of transplantation.

Our Lung Transplant Social Workers lead a monthly support group for pre- and post-transplant patients via Zoom. Contact Angela Lombardo, LICSW (617-525-1376), or Kaitlyn Randor, LICSW (617-525-8446), for more information.

Lung Transplant Support Group

For pre- and post-transplant patients and their families/caregivers

  • What: Our support group provides an educational and supportive space for all lung transplant patients and their caregivers.
  • When: Ongoing drop-in group is held on the first Wednesday of each month at 2 pm.
  • Where: This group is held virtually, via Zoom. Please reach out to the Lung Transplant Social Worker contact below to get the Zoom ID number for the group.
  • Contact: Angela Lombardo, MSW, LICSW at 617-525-1376 or alombardo@bwh.harvard.edu.

Lung Transplant Caregiver Support Group

For pre- and post-transplant caregivers and support team members

  • What: This support group provides emotional support for caregivers and support team members of our transplant patients.
  • When: Ongoing drop in-group is held on the second Thursday of each month from 11 am to 12 pm.
  • Where: This group is held virtually, via Zoom. Please reach out to the Lung Transplant Social Worker contact below to get the Zoom ID number for the group.
  • Contact: Angela Lombardo, MSW, LICSW at 617-525-1376 or alombardo@bwh.harvard.edu.
Neurology (including Stroke)

Brigham and Women's Faulkner Hospital Stroke Support Group

This group meets virtually on the first Wednesday of the month from 12 noon to 1 pm. Participants will be emailed a Zoom link per request.

To learn more, contact Rebecca Bilodeau, LICSW, at 857-507-6199 or rbilodeau@mgb.org or Emily Nepomuceno, PT, DPT, at 617-983-7271 or enepomuceno@mgb.org.

Weight Management

Brigham and Women's Center for Weight Management and Wellness (CWMW) offers a variety of educational and support resources for weight loss patients and their families. These resources teach patients about their weight loss options, prepare them for life after their procedure, and provide both pre- and post-procedure education. Please contact our team at 617-525-3597 with any questions.

Center for Weight Management and Wellness Forum Support Group

We encourage you to attend these meetings that are both in person and through Zoom. The Forum brings patients together to share experiences and provide support for each other. Sometimes we have discussion topics, such as plastic surgery, behavioral challenges, healthy cooking, and eating strategies. Forums are free of charge but please register through the link to gain meeting information and sign-on links.

Center for Weight Management and Wellness Post-operative Behavioral Support Groups

Our bariatric psychologists lead several post-operative support groups. All patients will attend a group 6-8 weeks after surgery. Schedule with your surgeon’s practice assistant. Costs are billed to insurance and co-pays are collected for these appointments. Groups meet at:

  • Brigham and Women’s Hospital
    Kessler Conference Room (check in at Suite B)
    2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 10 to 11 am
  • Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital
    Dr. Davidson’s Office (check in at Suite 5D)
    1st and 3rd Mondays, 1 to 2 pm
style
palette-white
showJumplinks
false

Cooley Dickinson Hospital

American Heart Association (AHA) Training Center

The American Heart Association (AHA) Training Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital offers many different classes including initial certification, renewal, and hybrid classes. Courses include basic life support (BLS), advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS), pediatric advanced life support (PALS), Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition and Stabilization (PEARS), HeartSaver, Choke Saver, and Super Sitters Babysitting.

Questions? Call 413-582-2400 or email CDHCNurseProDev@cooleydickinson.org.

Childbirth and Parenting

Please email us at obgynmidwiferyprograms@cooleydickinson.org with any questions about our educational offerings and support groups. Click on a class or group below to learn more:

Educational offerings

Check our Facebook page for real time updates, cancellations, and more!

Other offerings:

Childbirth Center tours: In-person tours of the Childbirth Center are held every second and fourth Saturday of the month at noon for current or prospective pregnancy care clients. Meet in front of the mural outside the Childbirth Center (at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, 30 Locust Street, Northampton), which is upstairs via the Stork Elevators or the stairs. The tour will start promptly at 12:05 pm. If you are late, please ring the doorbell to the left of the double doors and ask to join the tour. If this time does not work for you and you would like to schedule a private or virtual tour, please call 413-582-2125.

Lactation support: Warmline (leave a message at 413-582-2096 and receive a call back from our lactation staff), in-person, and virtual appointments. For medical questions, Cooley Dickinson ObGyn & Midwifery Patients can reach our triage nurses or on-call provider 24-7 by calling 413-586-9866 (press 3).

Grief Support and Bereavement

Note: For the drop-in groups, there is an email that goes out ahead of each group meeting. If you would like to be on the email list for any particular group(s), please call or email Shelly at 413-727-5749 or slenn@cooleydickinson.org.

Bereavement Walking Group

An in-person, drop-in Walking Group that takes place at Child's Park. This group aims to typically meet on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month from 10:30 – 11:30 am.

These walks are weather-dependent. After a brief welcome, bereaved adults walk, share, and connect around their grief experience. Please keep in mind that this is a walk where we intend to walk at the pace of our slowest walker(s) and isn’t meant for a cardio workout.

For more information, call 413-727-5749.

Bereavement Book Group

A virtual, drop-in bereavement book group for bereaved adults tries to meet every other month on the 2nd Wednesday from 5:30-7 pm.

We discuss, share highlights, and comment on a book connected to grief and loss. Books are chosen at the end of each group. Adults only and free of charge. The current book the group is reading is, Bearing the Unbearable: Love, Loss and the Heartbreaking Path of Grief by Joanne Cacciatore.

In advance of the book group, please plan to download the Teams app. For the Teams link and more information, call 413-727-5749.

Grief Support Group

This free, in-person support group for bereaved adults meets weekly on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 – 7 pm in 8-week sessions. The group consists of 5-8 participants and includes a mix of journaling, sharing, grief education, and learning coping skills. The group meets at 22 Atwood Drive, in Northampton, 2nd floor conference room.

There is a required intake and commitment to schedule. Call 413-727-5749 for schedule and intake.

Neurology (including Dementia)

Dementia Caregiver Support Group

This support group is open to all and offers a time for caregivers to share their experience and learn and support others who are on a similar journey of caregiving. The sessions take place on the second Thursday of each month from 1 to 2 pm. The group currently meets virtually over Teams at this link. Please call 413-585-0755 with any questions.

style
palette-white
showJumplinks
false

Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute

Cancer

Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute support programs are designed to help patients, their families and caregivers cope with the challenges of a cancer diagnosis. We offer a wide range of integrative therapies, workshops and support groups.

View current workshops and support programs

style
palette-white
showJumplinks
false

Massachusetts General Hospital

AIDS/HIV

Women's HIV Support Group

For all women living with HIV/AIDS who are patients at MGH Cox 5 Clinic.

  • What: This virtual mutual support group is designed to empower women living with HIV by cultivating a robust sense of community and enhancing resilience. It offers a safe and confidential space for women to share their personal experiences with HIV diagnosis and receive support from peers who comprehend the distinct social and personal challenges they encounter. By fostering social connectedness and addressing stigma, the group promotes sustained engagement in HIV care, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of its members.
  • When: This group meets virtually via Zoom every 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month from 12pm to 1:30pm.
  • Where: This group is currently open to new members. Please call for more information.
  • Contact: Florenny Cabrera, MSW, LICSW at 617-724-2476.

This group is organized by the Department of Clinical Social Work.

Blum Patient and Family Learning Center
The Maxwell & Eleanor Blum Patient and Family Learning Center at Massachusetts General Hospital hosts free educational programs and events several times each month for patients and families, focused on a variety of health and wellness topics. View Blum Center event listings
Cardiac

MGH VAD Support Group

This group is for patients who are living with Ventricular Assist Devices so that we all may learn and support one another in a group setting.

  • What: The purpose of the group is to provide support, build relationships, provide VAD education and psychoeducation ongoing for patients who have received VADs.
  • When: Please contact the group leaders for meeting information.
  • Where: This group currently meets virtually on Zoom
  • Contacts: Kate Milley and Johnna Marcus. Kate Milley: VAD coordinator MGHVADmailbox@partners.org or 617-724-1130. Johnna Marcus: Social Worker jemarcus@mgh.harvard.edu or 617-726-2647

This group is offered by the D Heart Failure/VAD/Transplant Service.

Childbirth and Parenting

Important:

  • New classes for upcoming months are added at the end of each month. This website is not updated daily, please contact the organizer for available class openings.

Our Obstetrics and Gynecology team offers childbirth education classes and other educational resources to help new and expectant parents prepare for childbirth and early parenthood. Classes are offered virtually and in person. Virtual classes are offered live via Zoom. You will need to be able to log on with your computer to participate in virtual classes. Once registered, the link to join the class will be emailed to you the week of your scheduled class. Virtual childbirth classes will have the same content as in-person classes.

Current class offerings:

Developmental Disabilities

Aging Well with Autism Therapeutic Support Group

For parents and caregivers of adults with autism who are over the age of 30

  • What: This therapeutic support group allows parents and caregivers to express concerns about the future of their loved ones with autism as they age. It will include looking at change, grief, loss and how aging with autism affects our own personal growth and relationships. The group will provide opportunities for self-reflection, bonding, and the sharing of resources and information, in a relaxed, safe space, where compassion for one another is paramount.
  • When: Every other Thursday, 10:00am to 11:00am.
  • Where: Online (Zoom). In order to protect the safety and privacy of our members, the Zoom link is not public. You must register to receive the link.
  • Contact: Please contact the Lurie Center for Autism at 781-860-1700 to register.

This group is offered by the Lurie Center for Autism, in Lexington.

Autism 101: A 6-Session Support Group for Parents of Newly Diagnosed Children

For parents or caregivers of young children, aged 7 and under, who have been diagnosed with autism

  • What: The Autism 101 parent support group series provides interactive lessons, question and answer sessions, and the opportunity to connect with other families with newly diagnosed children. If you’ve found yourself typing “my child diagnosed with autism” into the Google search bar, this group will help address that ‘now what’ feeling that you may have been experiencing. Attendance at all six sessions is recommended.
  • When: TIME: 12:00pm - 1:30pm. This 6-session series is held four times per year starting on the first Friday of November, February, May and August.
  • Where: Online (Zoom). In order to protect the safety and privacy of our members, the Zoom link is not public. You must register to receive the link.
  • Contact: Please contact the Lurie Center for Autism at 781-860-1700 to register.

This group is offered by the Lurie Center for Autism, in Lexington.

Diabetes

Diabetes Self-Management Education Program

For Mass General patients with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes

The Diabetes Self-Management Education program offers a comprehensive education program for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetics and their family/friends who support them.

Contact 617-726-8722 for more information.

Gastrointestinal

Ostomy Support Group

For patients with a new or existing colostomy, ileostomy or urostomy, and their family and friends

  • What: Hosted by the ostomy nurses from the MGH Gastrointestinal & Oncologic Surgery department (GIOS), the Ostomy Support Group presents an open and inviting atmosphere to ask questions, share tips, and discuss relevant topics. Meetings are free and will sometimes feature a guest speaker.
  • When: Every third Wednesday in February, April, June, August, October, and December
  • Where: The conference room on Wang 355 at MGH and virtually
  • Contact: For more information and/or to receive a virtual link, please call 617-726-2760.
Grief and Bereavement

Club STAR: Sharing Together and Remembering

A bereavement support group for children and teens

** This group is not currently meeting. **

  • What: This group is for children and teens in kindergarten through senior year of high school and their parent/caregiver who are grieving the death of a parent or sibling. The group provides opportunities to share experiences, create projects, and participate in memory-making activities. There is a special group for parents/caregivers. This is a membership group, but new members are welcome at any time. This year we will be offering two groups—an in-person group as well as a virtual group.
  • When: This group is not currently meeting.
  • Where: Two options—in person and virtual.
  • Contact: Please call Hillary D'Amato, CCLS at 617-643-9276 or mghclubstar@partners.org for more information or to register.

Dinner and parking reimbursement are provided.

This group is offered by the Mass General for Children Child Life Department and the Department of Clinical Social Work.

Intimate Partner Abuse

De Mujer a Mujer (Woman to Woman)

Group is Spanish-speaking, free and confidential

  • What: A 6-week Spanish language group for women who have experienced abuse and control in their intimate relationships. The program is designed to help Latina women better understand domestic violence specifically as it pertains to them as a group. The group is facilitated by HAVEN advocates. Groups are held at various times during the year.
  • When: Groups are held at various times during the year. Please call if interested.
  • Where: Mass General Chelsea, 151 and 100 Everett Avenue, Chelsea, MA 02150
  • Contact: Call HAVEN at Mass General Chelsea: 617-887-3513

This group requires a pre-group screening interview.

This group is offered by the HAVEN Program.

HAVEN Support Groups

Groups are held at different times during the year, in English and Spanish. Groups are free and confidential.

  • What: HAVEN runs several short-term support groups and workshops. The goals are to break isolation, provide information and connection to community resources and provide a supportive network between women with common experiences of abuse and control by an intimate partner.
  • When: Groups are 90 minutes, held at various times during the year. Please call for meeting times.
  • Where: Groups are held in Boston on the main campus and at the Revere and Chelsea Health Centers.
  • Contact: Call the HAVEN program line for more information, 617-724-0054.

A brief screening interview is required for membership.

This group is offered by the HAVEN Program.

HAVEN Intimate Partner Abuse Topic-focused Workshops

For anyone who has been or is currently in an abusive or controlling relationship

  • What: HAVEN provides two part topic focused workshops covering such issues as "Impacts of Abuse on Children," "Life after Abuse," and "Mindfulness."
  • When/Where: Time, location and topics vary so please contact HAVEN at 617-724-0054 for more information.

This group is offered by the HAVEN Program.

Kidney Disease/Dialysis

MGH CAPD Clinic Patient Support Group

  • What: This is a peer support group designed to offer a safe space for peritoneal dialysis patients to process their experiences and emotions, build a community, and learn new information. Guest speakers may be present at sessions. Must be a patient within the MGH CAPD Clinic.
  • When: The group is held the 1st Tuesday of each Month at 3pm – 4:15pm.
  • Where: This group meets virtually via Microsoft Teams. Must be in the state of MA during the group.
  • Contact: Ashley Paleski, LICSW 617-726-3067

MGH CAPD Clinic Family Support Group

  • What: For the loved ones of individuals receiving peritoneal dialysis through the MGH CAPD Clinic to discuss their experiences and emotions, build a community, and learn new information. Guest speakers may be present at sessions.
  • When: The group is held the 1st Thursday of each Month at 4pm – 5pm.
  • Where: This group meets virtually via Microsoft Teams. Must be in the state of MA during the group.
  • Contact: Jessica Lezon, LCSW 617-724-4451
Mental Health

SMART Program: Stress Management and Resiliency Training

For Mass General patients who have chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and stress related disorders.

  • What: An 8-week group program that provides skills to more effectively cope with depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and other concerns that frequently accompany medical issues and stress related illness. There is a strong emphasis on the benefits of relaxation and meditation in managing health concerns and becoming mindful of how thoughts impact feelings and symptoms. The group also helps patients increase resiliency and positive communication with providers, family members, and significant people in their lives.
  • When: Occurs three times a year. Please call for more information and for specific dates.
  • Where: Online on Zoom
  • Facilitated by: Miriam Nelson Oliver, LICSW
  • Contact: Call 781-485-6100 for more information

This group is offered by the MGH Revere Health Care Center. First priority enrollment is for MGH Revere patients, however patients with an MGH Primary Care Provider (PCP) are welcome to inquire.

Neurology (Dementia, Stroke)

Care Partners of individuals living with Parkinson's Disease

The Ruth Sleeper Nursing Center for Clinical Education and Wellness at the MGH Institute of Health Professions invites care partners of individuals with Parkinson’s to participate in a monthly virtual support group.

  • What: This group will provide a safe and supportive processing space for navigating the challenges and life transitions of care partners. Care partners will be encouraged to connect and share regarding shared lived experiences. Topics covered may include coping strategies, self-care, and healthy relationships. The group will be facilitated by psych/mental health nurse practitioner students and licensed faculty.
  • When: The upcoming meeting dates are Monday September 23rd, Monday October 21st, Monday November 18th.
  • Where: Care Partners is held virtually via Zoom.
  • Contact: Sleeper Nursing Center- Phone: 857-270-3101 Email: nursingcenter@mghihp.edu

The program is free to attend, but registration is limited. If you are interested in participating, please contact us.

Mass General Brain Aneurysm/AVM Support Group

For patients diagnosed with a brain aneurysm or an AVM, survivors, family members and friends.

  • What: This is a free open discussion format group, mixed with a variety of speakers from different departments including social work, speech pathology, neurosurgery, neurology, occupational health and psychiatry.
  • When: The group meets virtually via Zoom the first Tuesday evening of every month from 6:00PM to 7:30 PM.
  • Where: Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA (currently virtual)
  • Contact: Amanda Scott, NP at acscott@partners.org
Pain Management

SMART Program: Stress Management and Resiliency Training

For Mass General patients who have chronic pain, depression, anxiety, and stress related disorders.

  • What: An 8-week group program that provides skills to more effectively cope with depression, anxiety, sleep problems, and other concerns that frequently accompany medical issues and stress related illness. There is a strong emphasis on the benefits of relaxation and meditation in managing health concerns and becoming mindful of how thoughts impact feelings and symptoms. The group also helps patients increase resiliency and positive communication with providers, family members, and significant people in their lives.
  • When: Occurs three times a year. Please call for more information and for specific dates.
  • Where: Online via Zoom
  • Facilitated by: Miriam Nelson Oliver, LICSW
  • Contact: Call 781-485-6100 for more information

This group is offered by the MGH Revere Health Care Center. First priority enrollment is for MGH Revere patients, however patients with an MGH Primary Care Provider (PCP) are welcome to inquire.

Parenting

NICU Parent Support Group ** Please note this group is NOT currently meeting **

For parents of current NICU patients.

  • What: Emotional support offered to assist with the often unexpected adjustment to having a baby in the NICU as well as the transition to parenting.
  • When: This is ongoing group is held every the 2nd Monday of each month at 1:00PM and Pizza is served.
  • Where: In the NICU Conference Room on Blake 10
  • Contact: Marisa Iacomini, LICSW, at 617-726-2611
Smoking Cessation

Living TOBACCO-FREE: Smoking Cessation

Open to MGH patients and non-MGH patients

What: Quit-Smoking Coaches offer free one-on-one coaching for patients interested in quitting or talking about quitting smoking or other forms of tobacco. Coaching is available in English, Spanish and Russian.

Where: Coaches see patients at multiple health center locations:

  • MGH Revere HealthCare Center
  • MGH Broadway Primary Care-Revere
  • MGH Charlestown HealthCare Center
  • MGH Chelsea HealthCare Center
  • MGH Everett Family Care

When: Hours vary by location.

Support groups: Please call us to find out if we are currently offering support groups.

Contact: Living TOBACCO-FREE: 781-485-6210

These services are provided by MGH Community Health Associates

Substance Use

Recovery Group for Veterans and Service Members

A support group for veterans and/or active-duty service members.

  • What: This is a recovery group for veterans and service members interested in reducing or discontinuing their use of alcohol and/or other drugs. Abstinence from all substances is not a requirement. This is a treatment group requiring attendance of at least 8 consecutive sessions.
  • When: This group is held on Tuesdays from 10:00 am-11:15 am.
  • Where: This group meets virtually.
  • Contact: Dr. Rene' Lento, and Karissa Peoples, LICSW. For registration or information, call Home Base at 617-724-5202. First-time attendees, please call to schedule a phone intake

West End Clinic for Substance Use Disorders

The West End Clinic provides comprehensive evaluation of alcohol and other substance use disorders, and offers varied modalities for group therapy. Groups offering examples: Relapse Prevention, Mindfulness, Readiness for Change, Men's and Women’s Recovery, Long-Term Support, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Call us to learn about our full group psychotherapy offerings. Any patient interested in enrolling in group therapy can contact the West End Clinic at 617-724-2480.

Transplant

Lung Transplant Support Group

Pre- and post-lung transplant patients and families/caregivers

  • What: Support to facilitate adjustment to transplant/chronic illness and information about the lung transplant process.
  • When: This ongoing drop-in group is held the 2nd Friday of each month at 1:00 PM.
  • Where: This group meets via Zoom. Please reach out to the group contact before each meeting to get the zoom ID number for the group..
  • Contact: Kate Guditz, MSW, LCSW at 617-643-3001

This group is offered by the Department of Clinical Social Work.

style
palette-white
showJumplinks
false
titleJumplinks
MGH

McLean Hospital

WellSpace at McLean

WellSpace provides therapeutic, recreational, and educational groups for young adults ages 18-30 who have had psychosis. The team is devoted to providing fun and interesting activities to foster positive social interactions and movement in recovery. Group sessions include topics such as brain training, integrated wellness, hearing voices, meditation, peer support, game therapy, building resilience, and more.

There is no attendance policy, so individuals can join our drop-in groups at will.

The program is located in the WellSpace room on the ground floor of the Admissions Building at McLean. Please note if you need a PT-1 to get to McLean, we can help you set that up. There is also virtual programming which participants can participate in from home.

Join a Group

WellSpace is free of cost to all participants and insurance is not required.

For more information or to inquire about joining a group, please contact Steve Fedele, CPS, at 617-855-4214 or via email.

style
palette-white
showJumplinks
false
titleJumplinks
McLean

Newton-Wellesley Hospital

Childbirth and Parenting

Make informed, evidence-based decisions as you prepare for birth by taking part in classes, workshops and/or tours of the birthplace. Classes are open to all. If you have questions or would like personalized class suggestions, contact us at nwhchildbirthed@partners.org or 617-243-6649.

Click here to view all class listings. Classes include:

Additional classes and support groups

  • Maternity Unit Virtual Tour (video): View upcoming dates
  • Infant & Child CPR and Prenatal Yoga: Please email us to request suggestions for in-person classes on these topics offered in the community.
  • Postpartum Mother's Group: Led by a certified nurse midwife this is a free, drop-in group. Contact arostami@partners.org for details on the Zoom link and/or call in number.

Breastfeeding Support Services

Call us at 617-243-6314 to learn more or click here to learn more about the services listed below.

  • Virtual Breastfeeding Support Group: Tuesdays from 2-3 pm.
  • In-Person Breastfeeding Support Group: Thursdays from 2-3 pm.
  • Outpatient Lactation Clinic
  • Mamava Nursing Pod
Psychiatry

Register for one of our Resilience workshops:

Raising Resilient Kids (via Zoom)

  • A seven-week skill-building program for parents of elementary school-aged children in a small group setting. Topics include building blocks of child development, emotional regulation, how to build optimism, setting up health habits, and strategies for fostering connections at home and with others.

Raising Resilient Teens (via Zoom)

  • A seven-week skill-building program for parents of tweens/teens in a small group setting. Topics include adolescent brain and development, communication and connection with your teen, setting expectations, what to do when teens don't meet expectations, and teen stress and anxiety.

Check back later for information about upcoming fall dates!

Weight Management

The Center for Weight Loss Surgery at Newton-Wellesley Hospital offers support groups for individuals who are considering surgery, and this includes pre- or post-surgery. Learn more about the support groups below:

  • New Patient Webinar (note: we do not perform lap-band surgery): These videos are required for pre-consultation patients. There are video recordings explaining our program and how weight loss surgery is beneficial for treating the disease of obesity and other associated diseases, why and how it works, complications, results, etc.
  • Community Support Group Meetings: This is open to all Center for Weight Loss Surgery pre- and post-surgical patients. The group addresses all aspects of life after weight loss surgery and includes guest speakers, workshops and patient interviews. Attendance is required at least once before surgery and regular attendance before and after surgery is strongly recommended.
  • Fundamental Support Group Meetings: Open to patients who are thinking about surgery, in the process, or who have had surgery within the last year. This group provides unique insight into the challenges (diet, body image, food issues, support, etc.) of this post-operative stage. Attendance is required at least once before surgery.
  • Living with Weight Loss Surgery: A virtual support group meeting open to patients 1 year after surgery who are struggling with maintaining healthy behaviors or gaining weight.

Register for a free patient seminar

Additional Information

Attendance Requirements for Pre-operative Patients

  • Prior to scheduling surgery, we require our patients to attend the following three virtual support group meetings: the New Patient Webinar, one Community Support Group Meeting, and one Fundamental Support Group. This is the minimum number of meetings you need to attend. We encourage you to come to more meetings which will provide you with the most information and education available in preparation for your surgery.
  • Attendance is taken to track compliance. It is your responsibility to make sure your attendance is noted by one of the Newton-Wellesley Hospital's Center for Weight Loss Surgery staff members. Always sign the attendance sheet as well.

Handicapped parking for meetings in the Shipley auditorium is available at the West Entrance of the Main Hospital. Directions to the campus with map showing location of Shipley auditorium.

*Weather Policy: If local schools are closed due to inclement weather the meetings are also cancelled*

style
palette-white
showJumplinks
false

Salem Hospital

Childbirth and Parenting

Classes:

  • Birthplace Tour
  • Breastfeeding Your Baby
  • Infant & Child CPR
  • Prepared Childbirth and Newborn

View classes and register on Eventbrite.

Support groups (email us or call 978-354-3909 to learn more)

  • New Beginnings: Join us at our free, community group for pregnant parents or parents with new babies. Led by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), this space allows participants to build community, share experiences, and support one another on the parenting journey. Parents and their newborns are welcome! Meets weekly in-person on Fridays from 10 am to 12 noon in Davenport 102B.
  • Fetal and infant loss support group: For women and their families who have experienced a loss. The fetal and infant loss support group is an open group held on the 2nd Tuesday every month from 7 to 8:15 pm in the Davenport 101 conference room. No registration is needed.
Neurology (including Stroke)

Salem Hospital Stroke Support Group

This group meets virtually and in-person on the second Tuesday of the month from 2 to 3 pm.

To learn more, contact Emily Hinckley, MS CCC-SLP, CBIS, at 978-825-8700 or ehinckley@mgb.org.

Psychiatry

Each of these groups will be billed through insurance therefore anyone interested will need to come in before the start of group to complete an intake with one of our clinicians. Workshops are led by clinicians and are educational in nature. They are not therapy groups. You do not have to be a patient to take part in any of the Family Resource Center offerings. Our educational workshops are available to Mass General Brigham employees and their families at no cost through the system's commitment to support your well-being.

To register for a workshop, email Crystal Brennan or call 978-354-2670.

CBT for Chronic Pain: A Skills Based Therapy Group

  • Living with chronic pain affects far more than the body -- it shapes mood, energy, sleep, and daily life. This 8-week, evidence-based group uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help participants understand the pain-stress cycle and build practical tools to reduce suffering and increase a sense of control. Held Thursdays at 10 am (beginning 6/11/26) via Zoom. Limit of 10 participants. Facilitated by Dr. Laurie Veillette.

Intuitive Eating Workshop

  • This 12-week experiential workshop is designed for individuals seeking a more peaceful, empowered relationship with food and their bodies. Participants will learn to tune into hunger, fullness and satisfaction cues, reduce guilt and anxiety around eating, challenge unhelpful diet rules and internalized weight stigma, and build sustainable, compassionate self-care practices. Held Mondays (beginning 6/8/26) via Zoom. Limit of 10 participants. Facilitated by Dr. Laurie Veillette.

Mindful Parenting Group

  • A mindfulness-based parenting group gain the skills to stay calm, present and connected with ourselves and our children, even when we're stressed. We'll share what has worked and what hasn't. The concept of mindfulness-based parenting will be addressed and how to apply it in everyday situations to manage emotional reactivity. This will be an 8-week virtual group held on Mondays (beginning 6/8/26) at 6pm via Zoom. Limit of 10 participants. Facilitated by Adele McKeon-Millard LICSW.

Grief and Loss

  • Processing grief and loss through group discussion, writing, and drawing exercises. We will use Megan Devine's book "How to Carry What Can’t be Fixed." Participants are encouraged to purchase their own copy, but not required. 6-week program held on Wednesdays (beginning 7/1/26) at 4pm via Zoom. Limit of 10 participants. Facilitated by Matthew Carron LICSW.
Weight Management

Information sessions (English and Spanish)

Sessions happen every other Wednesday on a secure Teams platform. We will send you the link to join the session after we receive your request.

Pre-operative and post-operative support groups

Salem Hospital Bariatric Support Groups are offered in English and Spanish on a monthly basis and are led by a dietitian or health professional from the Salem Hospital Wellness Clinic. They are live, interactive and held virtually through our secure Microsoft Teams platform (program participants will receive a Patient Gateway message with information on how to join an upcoming support group as the date approaches). Each meeting will typically start with the review of a specific topic or theme, followed by open discussion giving participants the opportunity to discuss their concerns, feelings, helpful tips, etc., with their peers.

We welcome participants who are considering bariatric surgery, preparing for bariatric surgery or have had bariatric surgery in the past. Your procedure did NOT have to take place at Salem Hospital in order to participate. We strongly recommend new patients to attend at least one support group prior to surgery. Call 978-825-6505 to learn more.

Apoyo preoperatorio y postoperatorio

Se ofrecen grupos de apoyo en inglés y español mensualmente. Los grupos están dirigidos por un dietista o profesional de la salud de la Clínica de Bienestar del Hospital de Salem. Los Grupos de Apoyo Bariátrico del Hospital de Salem se realizarán en vivo, de forma interactiva y virtual a través de nuestra plataforma segura Microsoft Teams (los participantes del programa recibirán un mensaje de Patient Gateway con información sobre cómo unirse a un próximo grupo de apoyo a medida que se acerque la fecha). Cada reunión generalmente comienza con la revisión de un tema específico, seguida de una discusión abierta que brinda a los participantes la oportunidad de compartir sus inquietudes, sentimientos, consejos útiles, etc. con sus compañeros.

Invitamos a los participantes que estén considerando una cirugía bariátrica, se estén preparando para una cirugía bariátrica o que ya se hayan sometido a ella. No es necesario que su procedimiento se haya realizado en el Hospital de Salem para participar. Recomendamos encarecidamente a los nuevos pacientes que asistan al menos a un grupo de apoyo antes de la cirugía. 978-825-6505

style
palette-white
showJumplinks
false

Spaulding Rehabilitation

Virtual Support Groups

Amputee Support Group

  • First Wednesday of every month, 1 to 2:30 pm. Amputees, families and friends are invited to attend. We meet to discuss common areas of interest, including accessibility and resources. We socialize, share coping strategies and support each other. Participants can join by emailing the group leaders, Lindsay Regan (lregan2@mgb.org) and Hanna Lydon (hklydon@mgb.org).

Stroke Support Group

  • Second Wednesday of every month, from 3 to 4 pm. The Spaulding Stroke Group is a community-based support group that provides socialization and education for stroke survivors. This group is registered with the National Stroke Association, as well as the American Heart Association. For more information, please contact Karen Halfon at 617-952-6560 or khalfon@mgb.org.
Boston Support Groups

BABIS (Boston Acquired Brain Injury) Support Group

  • Boston Acquired Brain Injury Support Group (BABIS) is for brain injury survivors, family and friends, this large support group averages 60+ people each month. We also have a facilitated family/caregiver (brain injury-related) support group that meets at the same time. BABIS will meet the first Saturday of the month, from 10 to noon, in conference rooms A and B, with family support group meeting from 10:30 to noon. Please note that continued virtual meetings take place on the 3rd Thursday, from 10 to 11:30. For more information or to register for virtual meetings, visit BIAMA.org.

Spinal Cord Injury/Disorders Support Group (weekly)

  • Join the Greater Boston Chapter of United Spinal Association for one or more of our weekly virtual support groups for individuals with spinal cord injury/disorder (SCI/D). Our groups include Women with SCI/D, Nutrition, Significant Others of Individuals with SCI/D, Spanish Speakers, Newly Injured, After Dark: Intimacy & Relationships, General SCI/D Discussion, Family & Friends, Children with Loved Ones with SCI/D (monthly), and a monthly Saturday Education Series. Visit www.sciboston.org/groups for more information and Zoom links.
Cape Cod Support Groups

Alcoholics Anonymous

  • Every Saturday, 9:30 to 10:30 am in the Spaulding Cape Cod Cafeteria. Alcoholics Anonymous is a support group for men and women who have had a drinking problem. There are no age or education requirements. Membership is open to anyone who wants to do something about his or her drinking problem. For more information, please contact Stacy at 508-737-7934.

Cape Cod Sober Sisters AA Support Group

  • Every Friday, 5:30 to 6:30 pm in the Spaulding Cape Cod Cafeteria. A group committed to promoting the wellness, safety, and dignity of women seeking recovery from substance use disorders. For more information, please call 508-681-9582.

Alzheimer's Early Stage and Caregiver Support Group

  • First Wednesday of the month, 5:30 to 7 pm at Spaulding Cape Cod, 1st Floor Conference Room. This group provides education and support for family members and caregivers of those with Alzheimer's disease. For more information, please contact Cathy Pastva at 508-737-7934.

Early Onset Alzheimer's Support Group

  • Fourth Monday of every month, 5 to 6:30 pm at Spaulding Cape Cod, 1st Floor Conference Room. Support and caring connections for people with Early Onset Alzheimer’s, their families and caregivers. For more information, please contact Sonia Brewer at 508-364-4512.

Aphasia Community Group

  • First Wednesday of each month, 10:00 to 11:30 am at Spaulding Cape Cod, 2nd Floor Dining Room. Opportunities for individuals with Aphasia, their families and members of the healthcare community to support one another and share communication strategies. No meetings in July and August. For more information, please contact Jan Sullivan at 508-833-4268.

Adult Post-Concussion Support Group

  • First Wednesday of every month, 10:30 am to 12:00 pm at Spaulding Cape Cod. Meet people who share similar experiences, challenges, joys and hopes while we heal together from acquired brain injuries. For more information, please contact Ann Pike-Paris or Lori Tomasetti at 508-475-0030.

Fibromyalgia Support Group

  • Meetings will be held on the third Saturday of the month (except for December) from 2 to 3:30 pm in Spaulding Cape Cod, 1st Floor Conference Room. Our fibromyalgia support group can help you deal with chronic back or neck pain, chronic pain syndrome, and general pain management or relief. Share your experiences and learn from others. This support group is run by fellow fibro patients, not medical professionals. We hope we can offer each other empathy and support, but please seek out medical staff to diagnose and treat your illness. Meetings are subject to change/cancellations. For more information, please contact Gina Kennedy-Doherty at 774-521-8185.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous

  • Every Sunday, 9:30 to 11:00 am in Spaulding Cape Cod Cafeteria. Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous is based on the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous. FA members are men and women of all ages. Some have been obese; others have been severely underweight, bulimic, or so obsessed with food or weight that normal life was difficult or impossible. Join us for help and inspiration. For more information, please contact Sandra at 978-979-8197.

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group

  • Third Sunday of every month, 1:00 to 3:00 pm in Spaulding Cape Cod Cafeteria. Education and mutual support for people living with MS. Find guidance and hope for you and your family in a caring environment. For more information, please contact Paula Murphy at 508-648-7940.

NAMI (National Alliance On Mental Illness) Support Group

  • Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30 to 8:00 pm in Spaulding Cape Cod, First floor conference room. Supporting families and friends of people struggling with mental illness through understanding, awareness and advocacy. For more information, please contact Carolann Gillard at 508-361-9094.

MBIA (Mass. Brain Injury Assn.) Support Group

  • First Tuesday of the month, 4:30 to 6:30 pm in Spaulding Orleans Outpatient Center. Offers brain injury survivors, families and caregivers a fun, caring atmosphere where you can socialize, make new friends and find support and understanding. Events include picnics, Halloween costume ball, Spring Fling dinner/dance, game nights, educational lectures and much more. For more information, please contact Jeff Garrison (MBIA) at 508-274-4636.

Spinal Cord Injury Support Group (monthly)

  • First Tuesday of every month, 6:00 to 7:30 pm at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Cape Cod. These meetings offer peer support for you and your family if you’re facing a spinal cord injury (SCI). For more information, please contact 508-833-4000.

Stroke Survivors' Support Group

  • Second Wednesday of every month, 1:30 to 3:30 pm. This group acts as a forum for education, discussion and support for stroke survivors. It is facilitated by fellow stroke survivors James Graham and Leanne Vasconcellos. This group also offers the Stroke Peer Visitation Program, where experienced stroke peer volunteers visit, teach and support current Spaulding Cape Cod patients and families. For more information, please contact Jim Graham at 508-833-4043.

Stroke Peer Visitation Program

  • In conjunction with National Stroke Association, the Stroke Peer Visitation Program expands the range of services we offer to stroke survivors and families. It is intended for people who are not able to attend hospital or community-based support groups. Specially trained volunteers visit stroke survivors in their homes, assisted living facilities or nursing homes to provide support and education. For information about volunteering or arranging a visit, call Spaulding Cape Cod at 508-833-4043.
style
palette-white
showJumplinks
false

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital

Cancer

Cancer Caregiver Support Group

  • Are you caring for someone who has cancer? Consider joining our virtual monthly support group. Second Tuesday of every month, 5 to 6 pm. For more information, please contact Social Work at 603-740-2830.

Navigating Sexual Wellness During Cancer Treatment

  • A supportive care program for women diagnosed with cancer. Meeting location: Wentworth-Douglass Hospital Patient and Family Learning Center. To learn about the topics presented and to register, please email Brittney Sorbello, RPh, at bsorbello@mgb.org.

Mind. Body. Mend.

  • For women 40 years of age or younger with any cancer diagnosis before, during, or after treatment. Presented by Social Work Services in partnership with Exeter Hospital, this group will facilitate journaling, yoga, and discussions on relationships, intimacy, and nutrition. Meets in the spring and fall each year. For more information, contact Katelyn Seager, MSW, at 603-740-2225 or Maddi Coons, MSW, MEd, at 603-580-7304.
Childbirth and Parenting

We want you to be confident and comfortable as you prepare to welcome your new baby into your life. We offer parents, grandparents - even new siblings - many opportunities to learn more about labor and delivery, as well as valuable skills for when you bring baby home. Most insurance companies reimburse for childbirth classes. If your company does not and cost prohibits you from signing up for class, please contact us.

Our team can be reached at 603-609-6964 or lsargent@mgb.org.

*If a class is filled up, be sure to put your name on the waitlist and check back frequently as we're always adding classes, or contact us at: perinatalresources@wdhospital.org Notice for Winter Classes: we encourage you to sign-up for a class sooner rather than later as winter weather may cause us to cancel or postpone classes.

Diabetes

Diabetes Education and Support

  • Last Thursday of every month (except June, July and August), 5:45 - 7 pm. Contact Marianne Evans-Ramsay, Diabetes Educator, 603-740-2443.

Parents of Children with Diabetes Support

  • Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Contact Kris Ferullo, RN, BSN, CDE, Nurse Manager Diabetes Services, 603-740-2861.
Grief Support and Bereavement

Seacoast Parents Coping with Perinatal Loss

For families facing miscarriage, fatal fetal diagnosis, stillbirth or neonatal death. Unconditional support for loss at any gestation. Meetings encourage peer support through discussion and group activities. Group meets first Thursday of the month from 6 to 7:30 pm (except for October). Childcare available with preregistration.

For more information or immediate support contact the Perinatal Bereavement coordinator at perinatalresources@wdhospital.org.

Neurology (including Pain, POTS, and Stroke)

Chronic Pain Support Group (virtual)

  • Do you live with chronic pain? Would you like to get and give support to others like you? The Chronic Pain Support Group meets the second Tuesday of every month, from 4 to 5 pm, through a healthcare secure version of Zoom. To register, please email Wentworth-Douglass Hospital's Patient & Family Learning Center at pflc@wdhospital.org or call 603-609-6027.

POTS (Positional Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)

  • Second Tuesday of every month, 6:30 to 7:30 pm. Contact Coastal Neurology Services, 603-749-0913.

Stroke Support Group (virtual)

  • Held on the third Thursday of every month at 2 pm. Interact with other stroke survivors in an encouraging environment. Topics may include coping skills, education and presentations from experts. Friends and family welcome. Contact Lindsey Wyma, 603-609-6161 or lwyma@mgb.org.
Weight Management

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital Weight Loss Surgery Information Session

If diet and exercise alone aren’t enough to help you overcome obesity, weight loss surgery may be for you. Register for one of our information sessions to learn more.

Please check the schedule below to find a time that works best for you. Sessions take place on a secure Zoom platform. You will receive the link after you register.

  • Wednesday, August 19, 2026, 12 pm
  • Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 12 pm
  • Thursday, September 17, 2026, 6 pm
  • Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 6 pm
  • Tuesday, October 21, 2026, 12 pm
  • Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 12 pm
  • Thursday, November 19, 2026, 6 pm
  • Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 6 pm
  • Tuesday, December 16, 2026, 12 pm

Register for a Weight Loss Surgery Information Session

Bariatric Weight Loss Surgery Support Groups

There are free monthly support groups led by the bariatric team to provide education and support before and after surgery. Call 833-936-3963 for more information.

style
palette-white
showJumplinks
false