A discussion group brings people together who share a common interest, goal, problem, or disease. The purpose is to discuss their feelings, observations, successes and failures around dealing with the specific topic. This discussion provides an opportunity to vent their feelings in a healthy way and support others and themselves as each person is encouraged to share and openly express their honesty and truth around the topic. A successful discussion group encourages, supports, and acknowledges its' members for the inner courage, strength, and self honesty required to participate in open discussion. Participants are also continuously reminded of the inner growth and learning they are achieving over time.

The facilitator sets the guidelines and makes sure that the group members understand them. The facilitator may decide on the topic to be discussed, however, a facilitator's main objective is to promote discussion and personal sharing by all group members.
- Let group members know the guidelines and answer any questions around definitions
- Once the topic is stated or suggested by a group member, begin discussion by asking if anyone else has had a similar experience that they would like to share about.
- Don't answer questions brought up by the person sharing even if you believe you have an answer, you can always take someone aside after group if you believe you have some information that would be helpful. Instead promote feedback from other members of the group. (e.g. "What do you think?" or "Has this happen to anyone else?")
- Always speak in the first person and promote this in the group, the purpose is to share your personal experiences only, identify when people are not sharing their personal experiences to help the group identify inappropriate sharing
- Identify speakers by asking if they have a personal experience they would like to add, or would they like to share, or comment on the topic
- Validate awarenesses and/or growth of group members with short, feeling identifying, supportive statements, (eg. "That sounds like it was a very frustrating, yet rewarding step for you." or "It took immense personal courage to look at that.") Then immediately return to the group, (e.g."Has anyone else had a similar experience?")
- Be quiet and be an active listener.

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