While there are no specific professional skills required to be a  support group facilitator—such as being a trained counselor or psychologist—it is important to understand your roles and responsibilities. They should:

• Listen more than they talk.
• Manage or mediate conflict with an approach that is friendly, but firm.
• Respond without judgment. Especially when questions or comments indicate a difference of opinions.
• Help participants interact with each other, gain new information, and build upon their experience.
• Encourage everyone to participate, but remember that individuals participate in different ways.
• Allow people to pass. No one is required to share, and this should be clear to attendees when you start.
• Be ready with information on local counselors, a crisis hotline, or professional therapists for those who need more comprehensive help.
• Recognize expressions of self-harm or suicide. Immediately direct people to the appropriate resources.
• Compile a resource directory of resources and services that aren’t provided by your support group.

Download this resource here: Facilitation Best Practices