I have participated in a number of counseling groups. The common practice in all is that we agree to secrecy. What is said in the room stays in the room. Then we agree to share our experience rather than trying to diagnose and treat each other. I think the idea is that by sharing our experience, and our efforts to solve our own problems we inspire each other to find a personal solution for theirs. That avoids a tactless session that could easily be felt as accusing the “target” and ganging up to tell what should be done. A person who sees his own light is more likely to move toward it than a person forced into a direction not of his choice. A leader or moderator keeps us within limits of courtesy and respect, and guides our discussion to keep us from wandering away on the subject.
I assure you someone will know more than I do on the details.