What is Open Group?

Open Group is a weekly online community where you can begin working on your mental health and relational needs. It is a place to show up just as you are, share as you are ready, and learn how to support others on their journey. While many find groups to be even more dynamic and transformative than individual therapy, this space is designed specifically for community support and growth-oriented processing.

• Guided Connection: The group is facilitated by Paul McMullen, LPC (WELD Group). Paul provides the guidance and boundaries to keep the space safe, supportive, and focused on connection.

• Flexible Participation: This is an "open" group, meaning there is no long-term time commitment. We recommend giving it at least three weeks to see how this community can kick-start your move toward greater wellness.

• A Place to Practice: You’ll have the chance to identify your own relational needs and learn how to connect with others in real-time.

Who Is This For?

Open Group is for people looking for a safe, supportive place to grow. It’s a great fit if:

• You want to practice skills you’re learning in individual therapy in a supportive environment

• You simply want a healthy space to connect and feel less alone

• You’re new to the world of mental health support

Is This Therapy?

No, this isn't therapy. Instead, think of this as the communal side of wellbeing. While our groups are led by an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) to keep the space safe and focused, this isn’t a clinical treatment group. There are no diagnoses, no clinical charts, and no pressure—just real talk and mutual support to complement the work you’re already doing in your individual therapy.

Important Note: Participation in this group does not establish a therapist-patient relationship between the facilitator and the participants. Sweet Deeds Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and does not operate as a clinical mental health agency. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please contact 988 or go to the nearest emergency room.

When, Where and Other Details

When / Where 

• Open Group will meet on Wednesdays from 12 - 1 PM online. 

• It will typically meet on the first three Wednesdays of the month unless otherwise specified.

• Start Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026

What will we talk about?

The group has elements of teaching where we may talk about topics like anxiety, depression, boundaries, self-worth. But the majority of group time is directed by the things participants share about from their lives and stories.

Do I have to come every week?

The group is open to new participants any week. We encourage clients to give it a try for at least three weeks. Ongoing participation will bring the most benefit!

Is There Any Cost?

There is no fee to join Open Group. It is fully funded by Sweet Deeds Foundation.

Eligibility:

To be eligible for Open Group, at least one of the following must be true:

• You’ve previously received financial assistance from Sweet Deeds.

• You were referred by one of our nonprofit partners.

About Your Facilitator

Paul McMullen (LPC) is a licensed counselor with Lifeologie Counseling. He founded WellSpring Process Groups and Coaching in 2021 where he provides group and individual coaching for Christian leaders. He also has ministry experience as a church planter and pastor in various churches in the U.S. and Canada. Paul and his wife Julie celebrated their 20th anniversary this year. Their teenage boys, David and Caleb, keep the schedule full with marching band and soccer games.