Support Groups
A safe space to explore your adoption experience
VANISH support groups are for people affected by adoption (18+) to meet and share with others who have had similar experiences. These groups offer a confidential, non-judgmental space where you can talk about what’s on your mind and how you’re feeling—or you can just come and listen. Most of our facilitators are staff or volunteers with a lived experience of adoption.
We welcome both new and regular attendees and you can join a group whenever you need to.
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. Attendees are expected to stay for the whole duration unless the group ends early.
Facilitation
Our groups are run by skilled professionals. Facilitators or co-facilitators have a lived experience.
Peer support, not therapy
This is a peer support group, in which we gain empathy and understanding from others with shared lived experiences. Peer support can contribute towards healing, but it does not replace mental health services from psychologists or counsellors.
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 2025 dates, see below.
Melbourne Support Group for Adopted People
2025 Dates: Fourth Tuesday of every month (January 28, February 25, March 25, April 22, May 27, June 24, July 22, August 26, September 23, October 28, November 25 & December 16 )
Time: 7.30-9.30pm
Location: VANISH office, Level 1, 50-52 Howard St, North Melbourne
Online Support Group for Adopted People (via Zoom)
2025 Dates: Second Wednesday of every other month (February 12, April 9, June 11, August 13, October 8, December 10)
Time: 6.30-8.30pm
Location: Zoom
Albury-Wodonga Mixed Support Group for Adopted People, Mothers & Fathers
2025 Dates: Mixed Groups for Adopted Persons, Mothers & Fathers: Saturdays on March 1, May 10, July 12, September 13, November 8.
Time: 10.30am to 12.30pm
Location: Albury Library Museum, 540 Kiewa Street, Albury
Ballarat Support Group for Adopted People
2025 Dates: Saturdays on January 18, February 15, March 15, April 12, May 17, Jun 21, July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18, November 15.
Time: 2pm to 4pm
Location: Eastwood Leisure Complex, 20 Eastwood Street, Ballarat
How to register
If you would like to register for a group or find out more information, please contact us.
Some feedback from attendees:
Support Groups: Frequently Asked Questions
I am not sure if the group is right for me. What should I do?
If you are uncertain for whatever reason, please give us a call and we can describe what the group is like which can help you decide if you want to come along or not.
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 helpful team
Contact us to find out more about our services or have a chat about how we can best support you.