NAMI Signature Support Groups

NAMI Signature support groups are peer-led with a focus on providing an opportunity for people to mutually share and learn from each other's experiences. Each group provides a safe and confidential space to address the challenges presented by mental health conditions, regardless of the specific diagnosis. Each support group is led by a team of two peers with an overall message of hope. NAMI Whatcom believes that You Are Not Alone in your experience and mental illness is no one’s fault. We provide support groups for any individuals and families living with mental illness.

All support groups are lead by volunteers and are completely free to the community.
NAMI Connection is a structured recovery support group that offers respect, encouragement, and hope. Free to those living with mental illness, this group promotes connection and understanding while respecting confidentiality.

Come and learn from each others' experiences, share coping strategies, and offer each other encouragement and understanding.


When: Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month (excluding major holidays)  6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Where: 800 E Chestnut St. Suite 1C, Bellingham, WA 98225 (inside the Chestnut Professional Building)                     

Who can attend: Individuals aged 18+ with a mental health diagnosis

PLEASE NOTE: For the confidentiality of group members, NAMI Whatcom does not allow individuals who fail to meet the above criteria to "sit in" and observe group sessions. 
NAMI Family Support Group is a support group for family members, parents, caregivers, and friends of individuals struggling with mental illness.


In NAMI Family Support Groups, family members join a caring group of individuals helping one another by utilizing their collective life experiences and learned wisdom. Family members can achieve a renewed sense of understanding and hope for their loved one living with mental illness.

When:  2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month (excluding major holidays)
            6:30 PM - 8:00 PM                                         
           
Where:  800 E Chestnut St. Suite 1C, Bellingham, WA 98225 (inside the Chestnut Professional Building)       
          
Who can attend: Individuals 18+ who have a loved one experiencing mental illness.

PLEASE NOTE: For the confidentiality of group members, NAMI Whatcom does not allow individuals who fail to meet the above criteria to "sit in" and observe group sessions.
This group is for those who have lost a loved one to suicide. Practices include:
  • Telling the story of our lives to a compassionate group of listeners
  • Separating ourselves from what has happened to us
  • Dealing with traumatic losses in active ways
  • Learning from and supporting each other
  • Learning how to calm ourselves
  • Fostering resilience
  • Improving overall health and daily functioning
  • Restoring a sense of having a future

When:  2nd and 4th Mondays of each month
            6:30 PM - 8:00 PM                                         
           
Where:  800 E Chestnut St. Suite 1C, Bellingham, WA 98225 (inside the Chestnut Professional Building)                          
For more information, contact group facilitators:
Rodger Butler
jpmouse@ix.netcom.com
                                                                               
Rebecca Browning
​weaselscream@hotmail.com 



PLEASE NOTE: This is not a Signature NAMI program

Other Local Groups

DBSA group meets to educate and provide hope, help, and support to people living with depression or bipolar disorder and to their families and friends.
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When: Every 2nd Tuesday of the Month
                7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
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Where:  800 E Chestnut St. Suite 1C, Bellingham, WA 98225 (inside the Chestnut Professional Building)

For more information, contact Larry Vanderpool (360) 733-6714 or Jean Danielson (360) 733-1366