Support Groups for Aphasia Caregivers: Virtual and In-Person

Caring for a loved one with aphasia can be deeply meaningful—but it can also feel overwhelming, isolating, and emotionally draining at times. As a caregiver, you give so much of yourself every day, often putting your own needs on the back burner. That’s why finding support matters. Connecting with others who understand what you’re going through can bring comfort, encouragement, and practical tips for navigating the challenges of caregiving. Whether you’re looking for a place to vent, share resources, or simply feel less alone, support groups can make a world of difference.

These groups are accessible from anywhere in the U.S. and often welcome caregivers at any stage of their journey.

1. National Aphasia Association (NAA) Caregiver Support Group

  • Format: Zoom

  • Frequency: Monthly

  • Cost: Free

  • Details: A safe space led by NAA facilitators where caregivers can share their stories and support one another.

  • Website: aphasia.org

2. Lingraphica Online Caregiver Support Group

  • Format: Online (Zoom)

  • Frequency: Bi-weekly

  • Cost: Free

  • Details: Focused on building community and sharing strategies to support communication at home.

  • Website: lingraphica.com

3. Caregiver Action Network – Care Community

  • Format: Online forum

  • Availability: 24/7

  • Cost: Free

  • Details: While not aphasia-specific, this network offers emotional support and a vast library of resources.

  • Website: caregiveraction.org

4. Stroke Support Groups by American Stroke Association

  • Format: Virtual and hybrid options

  • Details: Many local stroke groups also welcome caregivers and family members. Use their searchable directory.

  • Website: stroke.org

 

🏥 In-Person & Hybrid Support Groups by Region

Northeast U.S.

  • Spaulding Rehab (Boston, MA)

    • Offers an in-person Stroke and Aphasia Community Group, which includes support for caregivers.

    • spauldingrehab.org

  • Columbia University Aphasia Community Partners (NYC, NY)

    • In-person and hybrid support groups that involve both PWA (people with aphasia) and their caregivers.

    • columbia.edu

Southeast U.S.

  • Emory Stroke Support Group (Atlanta, GA)

  • Brooks Rehabilitation Aphasia Center (Jacksonville, FL)

Midwest U.S.

  • University of Michigan Aphasia Program (Ann Arbor, MI)

  • Aphasia Access Midwest Chapter (Various cities)

    • Hosts events, workshops, and support groups, including caregiver-focused offerings.

    • aphasiaaccess.org

Southwest U.S.

  • UT Dallas – Callier Center (Dallas, TX)

    • Aphasia groups often include family/caregiver resources and support.

    • utdallas.edu

  • Barrow Neurological Institute (Phoenix, AZ)

    • Offers stroke and aphasia caregiver support meetings monthly.

    • barrowneuro.org

West Coast U.S.

  • UCLA Health – Aphasia Programs (Los Angeles, CA)

    • Offers educational and support services for families and caregivers.

    • uclahealth.org

  • Oregon Health & Science University (Portland, OR)

    • Hosts a Stroke Survivor & Caregiver Group.

    • ohsu.edu

💬 Tips for Choosing the Right Group

  • Start with your needs. Do you want practical tools? Emotional support? Both?

  • Consider your schedule. Virtual groups offer flexibility, while in-person can foster deeper local connections.

  • Ask questions. Reach out to facilitators to see if the group fits your situation.

 

You’re Not Alone

The journey through aphasia isn’t one you have to walk alone. Support groups are more than just meetings—they’re a reminder that there is strength in community, comfort in shared experience, and healing in connection.

If you know of a local or virtual group we should include, please email us at [email protected] so we can keep this list growing!

For support, questions, or if you need a friend to talk to who just “gets it,” please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected]. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news from Aphasia Readers! If you haven’t picked up an Aphasia Readers book, order your copy HERE!

God Bless,

Anna Teal

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