Online support groups are not meant to replace counseling or therapy. In fact, while most mental health professionals would advise that attending support group can be a beneficial part of your healing and have positive effects on interpersonal well-being, it's important to remember that the groups are not designed to address mental health issues. They are, however, a great place to share what you're learning or experiencing with people who have gone through the same things you have gone through. Your family members and loved ones may also benefit from support groups. The United States Department of Justice stated that domestic violence has a significant impact not only on those abused, but also on family members, friends, and on the people within the social networks of both the abuser and the victim.