Support Groups
Connect with others who understand
Navigating adoption can feel isolating—even decades later. You might be processing complex emotions alone, wondering if anyone else truly understands. VANISH support groups bring together people affected by adoption (18+) to share, listen and connect with others who get it. The groups offer a confidential, non-judgmental space where you can share what’s on your mind, or you can just come and listen. Most of our facilitators have a lived experience of adoption.
Come to one group or many—you can join a group whenever you need to. You will always be welcome.
What to expect
Group size
Most groups have 6-12 attendees. We aim to give everyone time to share if they wish.
Duration
Our groups run for 2 hours. We ask attendees to commit to the full time to create continuity for everyone, but if you need to leave early, just let us know.
Facilitation
Our groups are run by skilled professionals who truly understand the lifelong impacts of adoption. Most facilitators have a lived experience of adoption.
Peer support, not therapy
Peer support offers empathy and understanding from others with shared lived experiences. Many attendees find that peer support becomes an important part of their healing journey, but it does not replace counselling or mental health services.
A safe, non-judgmental space
Our groups offer a safe space to express yourself and it’s ok to become emotional. You can always choose to share or just listen, depending on how you feel.
Diverse experiences
Adoption impacts people differently, and each person’s experience is unique. We are mindful of respecting each other’s experiences and sharing the space with others.
Group Guidelines
Our groups adhere to the VANISH Support Group Guidelines to maintain safety and consistency at each group. You can read our group guidelines here.
Dates and Times
We currently offer groups for adopted people only, in-person and online, and a mixed support group for all adults with an adoption experience, in Albury. The mixed group provides an opportunity to meet and share with people affected by adoption in different ways, whose experiences can help to inform and enlighten one’s own.
For upcoming dates, see below.
Peer Support for Adoptees – Melbourne
Fourth Tuesday of every month (except December which is a week earlier)
2025 Dates:
- 23 September
- 28 October
- 25 November
- 16 December
Time: 7.30-9.30pm
Location: North Melbourne
Peer Support for Adoptees – Online
Second Wednesday of every month
2025 Dates:
- 10 September
- 8 October
- 12 November
- 10 December
Time: 6.30-8.30pm
Location: Zoom
Peer Support for Adoptees, Mothers & Fathers – Albury / Wodonga
Selected Saturdays
2025 Dates:
- 13 September
- 8 November
Time: 10.30am to 12.30pm
Location: Albury Library Museum, 540 Kiewa Street, Albury
Peer Support for Adoptees – Ballarat
Third Saturday of every month
2026 Dates:
- 17 January
- 21 February
- 21 March
- 18 April
- 16 May
- 20 June
Time: 2pm to 4pm
Location: Ballarat East Neighbourhood House, Barkly Square, 25-39 Barkly Street, Ballarat
How to register
If you would like to register for a group or find out more, please contact us.
Some feedback from attendees:
Support Groups: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if this group is right for me?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous or uncertain about attending your first group. If you’re feeling unsure for whatever reason, please give us a call and we can describe what the group is like and answer any other questions you may have.
Is there a fee to attend?
No, the support groups are a free service provided by VANISH. If you wish to contribute you are welcome to bring some biscuits or a snack to share.
I can’t get to the group at the starting time. Is that OK?
We prefer that everyone arrives on time so as not to miss the opening comments and introductions. If you wish to come late, please let us know in advance and we can mention it to the other participants at the beginning.
Can I bring a friend or family member or carer to support me?
Our groups are for individuals with a lived experience so if you want to bring someone with you, please let us know in advance and we will discuss how to manage this with you.
I haven’t decided yet whether I want to search. Would the group be suitable for me?
Yes, our groups are not just for those searching or who have searched, but to support anyone who wants to talk about or explore their experience.
I really need help with my family relationships. Is the group suitable for me?
Yes, you are likely to gain insights and support by attending a group. However, the support groups are not a substitute for personal counselling, so if you are unsure, do not hesitate to contact us.
I find it difficult to talk sometimes. What if I get emotional?
You are not required to speak if you prefer not to. Our groups are a safe space to express yourself without being judged. It is common to become emotional and you will be supported if this happens. If you become angry, we encourage you to express this in ways which do not cause fear or upset to the other participants.
What if I need support in the days following the group?
You are welcome to contact us for support following attending a group, regardless of the cause. Participants tell us that they only realise they are upset after the group so it can help to talk this through.
I am a mother whose child was adopted. Can I attend a group?
VANISH currently offers one mixed group only, which is held bimonthly in Albury. Our mixed groups are open to all individuals with an adoption experience, and mothers (sometimes called natural mothers or birth mothers) are welcome to attend.
ARMS (Victoria) is a not-for-profit organisation that offers monthly support groups for mothers in the Melbourne CBD. Please visit https://www.armsvic.org.au/support-group for details.
Get in touch with our friendly team
Contact us to find out more about our services or discuss how we can best support you.