The Power of Group Magic: What We Learned from Dr. Altman

In a recent conversation with GPS’s CEO Liz Friedman, Dr. Altman reminded us why groups matter so deeply in healthcare. A self-described “groupaholic,” Dr. Altman has spent over a decade proving what we at GPS know to be true: when people come together in a structured, supportive space, healing multiplies.

Dr. Altman began his journey into groups in 2009, launching a wellness group with a dietician. That first gathering of six people became the seed of something bigger. In his hometown of Woburn, participants didn’t just attend groups—they began leading them. Without clinical credentials, these new leaders stepped forward to guide others, carrying on what Dr. Altman calls Group Magic. It’s the same spark that fuels our work at GPS: the belief that peer-led support is not only possible, but profoundly impactful.

Today, Dr. Altman is training practices across the country to integrate group visits into primary care. He has led groups for couples, for parents, and for communities in need of healing. His vision extends beyond the clinical: he knows that if we can create systems where group facilitators are supported and compensated, the model can scale. And when it does, it has the power to transform care for families, communities, and people navigating crises like addiction.

At GPS, we see Dr. Altman’s story as living proof that our model—trauma-informed, peer-led, and rooted in connection—is not only aligned with clinical innovation, but also with the future of healthcare. His words underscore why legislative action, like the GROUP Act, is so essential. If we want a mental health system that meets the scale of need, we must invest in groups.

Groups are not a side offering or an optional support. They are a lifeline. They create leaders, reduce isolation, and make healing possible for people who might otherwise be left out. And as Dr. Altman reminds us, Group Magic is not just an idea—it’s already happening in communities across Massachusetts and the nation.

At GPS, we are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with physicians, policymakers, and community leaders who believe in this work. Together, we can ensure that Group Magic is recognized, funded, and scaled to meet the moment.

Dr. Wayne Altman is the Jaharis Family Chair and Professor & Chair of Family Medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine, founder of MAPCAP (MA Primary Care Alliance for Patients), practicing at the Family Practice Group in Arlington, and a leading architect of the Primary Care for You (PC4You) initiative to expand access, equity, and investment in primary care in Massachusetts