Free & Confidential · All Are Welcome

Need Someone Who Truly Understands What You're Going Through?

You don't have to face mental health challenges alone. NAMI Portage County offers free, peer-led support group meetings in Kent where you can share your story, find hope, and connect with others who truly get it.

Find a Meeting (330) 249-1832
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Members finding hope every week

Community members supporting each other at a mental health support group

Since 1980

NAMI has been providing support and education across America

Peer-Led Groups

Facilitated by people with lived experience

Diverse group of people sitting together in a warm, welcoming environment

About NAMI Portage County

A Place Where Your Story Matters

NAMI Portage County is a chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, dedicated to providing support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental health conditions throughout Portage County, Ohio.

Our support group meetings are free, confidential, and open to anyone — whether you're personally experiencing a mental health condition, supporting a loved one, or simply wanting to learn more. Every person who walks through our doors is welcome, and every story deserves to be heard.

Free

All meetings are completely free — no insurance needed

Weekly

Regular meetings so you always have a place to turn

Peer

Led by trained facilitators with lived experience

Safe

Confidential space to share without judgment

What We Offer

Programs Built Around Your Needs

Whether you're navigating a diagnosis, supporting someone you care about, or looking to better understand mental health — we have a program that fits.

Support Group Meetings

Peer-led groups where adults who are experiencing mental health conditions can share experiences, find encouragement, and build connection in a confidential setting.

NAMI Education Classes

Free, evidence-based classes like NAMI Basics and NAMI Family Support that teach you about mental health conditions, treatment options, and coping strategies.

Family & Caregiver Support

Dedicated groups for families and caregivers navigating mental health challenges with a loved one. Find understanding, resources, and practical tools.

Warm Line

A friendly, non-crisis phone connection staffed by trained volunteers. Talk to someone who understands when you need a listening ear during the day.

NAMI Hero Program

Peer-led support and education for veterans, active-duty service members, and their families dealing with the unique challenges of military life.

Advocacy & Resources

We help you navigate the mental health system, understand your rights, and connect to local resources — because everyone deserves access to care.

Find Your Group

Upcoming Support Group Meetings

All meetings are free, confidential, and open to anyone. No referral or diagnosis required — just show up.

Weekly

Tue

6:30 PM

Adult Support Group

For adults 18+ experiencing mental health conditions. Share, listen, and find connection with others who understand.

155 E Main St, Kent 90 minutes Free
Call to Confirm

Weekly

Thu

6:00 PM

Family Support Group

For family members and caregivers of loved ones living with mental health conditions. Learn, share, and find support together.

155 E Main St, Kent 90 minutes Free
Call to Confirm

Monthly

1st

Sat 10 AM

Peer-Led Education Class

A structured class covering mental health conditions, treatment options, and coping skills. New participants welcome anytime.

155 E Main St, Kent 2.5 hours Free
Call to Confirm

Schedule may change. Please call (330) 249-1832 to confirm upcoming meeting times.

"When I first walked into that meeting room, I felt like no one could possibly understand what I was going through. Within minutes, I realized I was exactly where I needed to be — among people who truly get it."

A NAMI Portage County Member

Support Group Participant

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Our support groups are open to anyone who wants to be there — whether you're navigating a diagnosis yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about mental health. You don't need a referral, insurance, or anything else. Just show up.

Yes — every single program we offer is completely free. NAMI is funded through grants, donations, and community support so that cost is never a barrier to getting help. We believe everyone deserves access to support.

Meetings are peer-led and follow a structured format. Participants share their experiences, listen to others, and learn practical coping strategies. There's no pressure to speak — you're welcome to just listen. The atmosphere is warm, confidential, and judgment-free.

Absolutely. Confidentiality is one of our core principles. Everything shared within our meetings stays in the meeting. This creates a safe environment where people can be honest and vulnerable without fear of judgment or exposure.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. For mental health crises, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7. Our warm line is also available during business hours for non-emergency support. We're here when we can be.

Get in Touch

We're Here When You Need Us

Have questions about our meetings? Want to know what to expect? Reach out — we're happy to help. No question is too small.

Visit Us

155 E Main St
Kent, OH 44240-2524

Call Us

(330) 249-1832

Send Us a Message

We'll get back to you as soon as we can.

You Don't Have to Walk This Path Alone

Taking that first step is often the hardest part. If you're ready to connect, we're ready to welcome you.

See Meeting Times (330) 249-1832
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