Family & Caregiver Support
Support Groups & Counseling
Emotional stress, financial strain, and uncertainty affect families during incarceration. These national and Florida-based programs offer peer mentorship, counseling, and practical guidance so you never feel alone.
Tip for New Members
Write down questions about visitation, commissary, or legal updates before group meetings. Having a list helps you share clearly even when emotions run high.
Ways to Find Support
Peer Circles
Local churches, nonprofits, and advocacy groups host weekly circles for spouses, parents, and children dealing with incarceration. Meetings are confidential and often free.
Trauma-Informed Counseling
Organizations such as Families Against Mandatory Minimums and Journey of Hope pair licensed counselors with peer mentors to address anxiety, grief, and stigma.
Digital Communities
Private Facebook groups, moderated Discord servers, and Zoom sessions allow loved ones to share tips on visitation, commissary, and emotional boundaries.
Featured Programs
National & FloridaPrison Fellowship Angel Tree
Holiday and back-to-school support for children of incarcerated parents, plus caregiver mentoring and church partnerships.
National Resource Center on Children & Families of the Incarcerated
Maintains a directory of youth programs, reentry support, and caregiver toolkits across the United States.
Florida Council on Crime & Delinquency (FCCD)
Regional chapters that coordinate family events, know-your-rights training, and restorative justice projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Family SupportAre support groups confidential?
Most peer groups follow confidentiality guidelines, but always ask facilitators about ground rules and whether meetings are recorded or transcribed.
Do groups cost money?
Many are free or donation-based. Some counseling sessions may bill insurance or offer sliding-scale fees. Ask about payment policies before scheduling.
Can children attend?
Youth-specific programs welcome children, but adult groups often restrict attendance for privacy. Confirm age policies in advance.
How do I verify a group is legitimate?
Research the sponsoring nonprofit, read reviews, and look for licensed professionals on staff. When in doubt, ask local churches or community centers for vetted referrals.