Support Groups in Toronto, ON

The loss of a beloved pet can be difficult, and the free Pet Bereavement and Loss Support Group is a safe and supportive place to come to process your loss. This group is held on the last Tuesday of every month and all are welcome. During COVID this groups is being offered online and is available to anyone in Ontario.
Photo of Katherine Hall, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Hosted by Katherine Hall
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4P
Life has endless challenges for children, youth and young adults these days. Issues that previous generations didn't even need to think about are now part of every day life for younger generations - cyberbullying, worries about school safety, increased rates of mental health struggles, societal conversations about gender and sexuality... On top of that are the issues that have plagued youth for generations - stress, school, dating, friends, and numerous other issues to wade through day by day. Sometimes it's hard to cope with these things on our own though, and that's where I come in.
(647) 559-9089 View (647) 559-9089
Runs Apr 16 to June 25/25. This series is structured around Joanna Macy’s Work That Reconnects. See her co-authored books: Active Hope, and Coming Back to Life. Content is combined with a deep understanding of group psychotherapeutic principles and land-based healing practices. Participants will focus on what matters most to them. We will connect with our inner self, with other group members, and with the greater natural world. A goal is to develop a deeper sense of community. Email: info@psychiatree.ca to set a time to meet with the facilitators Gwen and Nate.
Photo of Gwen Schauerte, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Hosted by Gwen Schauerte
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MEd
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4K
Perhaps life has become unmanageable, overwhelming or untenable and you are here to find help. From me, you can expect careful listening, empathy and professionalism when dealing with your issues. I am a Registered Psychotherapist with over 20 years experience. During that time, I’ve helped clients address difficulties, understand themselves better and find solutions in their lives. Psychotherapy is a journey taken together where insight, healing and transformation are possible. Ask me about my Active Hope Small Group (April-June, 2025) and Mindfulness for Relaxation groups.
(855) 705-4744 View (855) 705-4744
Black Lotus Mental Wellness offers Therapy sessions, Private and Group Yoga as well as mental wellness community workshops.
Photo of Deshawna Dookie, Registered Social Worker, RSW, RYT
Hosted by Deshawna Dookie
Registered Social Worker, RSW, RYT
Group meets in Toronto, ON M5N
I am a Therapist and Yoga Instructor serving clients in Ontario. Through a culturally informed lens I help racialized women process and address issues that may be arising from racial and intergenerational trauma, family and relationship issues, as well as ADHD, anxiety and depression. In sessions, we will work together to address the life challenges that bring you to therapy, one breath at a time. Together we will create a wellness plan that not only addresses trauma, but helps you address negative beliefs. I also incorporate trauma processing modalities such as EMDR into sessions to help build a sense of body-based awareness.
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DBT Virtual's online 12-week group program is designed to provide you with effective, practical coping strategies to regulate intense emotions and replace unhealthy, problematic behaviours. You will learn DBT skills aimed at managing emotional and interpersonal difficulties, including mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. Group members are expected to complete weekly homework tasks that help them solidify their skills practice. Adult and adolescent groups available. To register contact us or visit www.dbtvirtual.com/dbt-skills-group. Sliding scale rates available upon request for those in financial need.
Photo of Dylan Zambrano - DBT Virtual - DBT Program in ON, BC, AB & NS, Registered Social Worker, MSW
Hosted by DBT Virtual - DBT Program in ON, BC, AB & NS
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4W
Do you often find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster, struggling to get a hold of strong urges and stay in control? We help people with intense emotions, self-defeating thoughts and unhealthy behaviours that get in the way of them feeling and functioning at their best. We're a team of therapists specializing in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and we're here to help you untangle longstanding patterns so that you can take back control over your emotions and live a more meaningful life.
(289) 210-5144 View (289) 210-5144
Renascent offers gender-specific drug and alcohol rehab, with two men’s centres and one women’s centre to address the unique and specific concerns of men and women. Men are counselled by men and women by women. Our women’s centre welcomes those who self-identify as female; our men’s centres welcome those who self-identify as male. For people who are non-binary or questioning their identity, we will work with you to help you decide which centre best meets your needs.
Photo of Isaiah Gayle - Renascent, Treatment Centre
Hosted by Renascent
Treatment Centre
Group meets in Toronto, ON M5T
Founded in 1970, Renascent offers evidence-based, trauma-informed care that addresses drug and alcohol addiction and concurrent mental health issues. Proudly accredited, Renascent is one of Ontario’s largest and longest-standing addiction treatment providers. We have four addiction treatment centres: three in Toronto and one in and Brooklin, Ontario. Our Inpatient treatment programs are offered in safe, caring home-like residences with around-the-clock counselling and support from our team of registered psychotherapists and certified addiction counsellors. Our comprehensive treatment programs give our clients and their families support from the detox process through to aftercare, with the tools and opportunities to enjoy life-long recovery. Your care team will include addiction-trained doctors, registered psychotherapists, certified addiction counsellors. Renascent also offers an Intensive Outpatient Program which allows us to provide essential addiction treatment virtually. Our team of experts are passionate about recovery and helping people get well. As a not-for-profit, you can trust that our pricing is fair and affordable.
(437) 747-4904 View (437) 747-4904
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an empirically supported treatment for mood and anxiety. It is short-term and skills-based. Group therapy offers connection with others, which is so important in the postpartum period to help normalize your experiences. It is a cost effective alternative or supplement to individual therapy. This group is suitable for parents with babies 1-12 months of age. Babies are welcome to attend. This group will be led by Clinical Psychologists Drs. Jillian Satin and Samantha Waxman. Contact info@wellparentscentre.com for more information or to secure your spot.
Photo of Jillian Satin, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, PMH-C
Hosted by Jillian Satin
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, PMH-C
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4P
As the co-owner of The Well Parents Centre (since 2019) and a registered Clinical and Health Psychologist (since 2013), I am honoured to help parents and aspiring parents. I offer individual therapy and couples therapy, with a specific focus on infertility, loss, pregnancy, postpartum, and the early years of parenting. Some of the issues we work on include improving mood, anxiety, adjustment, and relationships. My approach integrates Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and more, and can be described as non-judgemental, practical, and often humorous.
(647) 952-6356 View (647) 952-6356
These online skills-focused support groups are specifically designed to support those with endometriosis. They are a blend of psychoeducational content, exercises, and peer support. These are ongoing 6-Week cohorts which means you can register for a time that works best for you. You will be with the same group throughout the six weeks to establish trust and supportive relationships. During the group sessions you'll receive a booklet with helpful information and exercises to complete each week.
Photo of Karina Waluk, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), CRPO, CAPT
Hosted by Karina Waluk
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), CRPO, CAPT
Group meets in Toronto, ON M6R
You’ve always been the one who holds it together—smart, thoughtful, resourceful. But lately, it’s like you've hit a wall. Maybe you're stuck in a big life transition, overthinking every move, or trying to juggle everything while your brain refuses to cooperate. Whether it’s burnout, anxiety, stress, or just a nagging sense that something’s off, you’re tired of powering through. I have 5+ years of experience working with individuals navigating life transitions and challenges such as relationships (romantic, family, friend, or workplace), stress, anxiety, ADHD (diagnosed or suspected), self-esteem, depression, trauma, and grief.
(647) 699-4797 View (647) 699-4797
Focussed on personal growth, this in-person group offers a safe space to explore participants' challenges, whether personal or relational, through professional facilitation, peer support, psychoeducation, and targeted exercises. Group size will be limited to ensure adequate time for all participants. The day and time will be finalized based on all those registered being able to meet at that time. It will run for 8 weeks, from approximately January 20 - March 10, 2025. A second, follow-up group may be offered in April 2025.
Photo of Faye Pickrem, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD-abd, MA
Hosted by Faye Pickrem
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), PhD-abd, MA
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4V
Old ways of coping are leaving you feeling lousy - overwhelmed, anxious, angry, numb, not good enough, depressed, abandoned. Often, we carry unconscious ways of thinking, acting, + relating that make it hard to function, creating roadblocks to joy and fulfillment. You may be intensely self-critical or drawn to narcissistic relationships; you may feel stuck in shame or sadness. You're hungry for personal growth and ready to re-map those tender, painful places. With care, curiosity, and compassion, we'll explore your narrrative to unpack how you relate to yourself and others, identify how you function best, and help you to get there.
(437) 747-5457 View (437) 747-5457
Substance Use & Self: Exploring Your Relationship with Substances is a group is for women (trans or cis) and nonbinary folks ages 19-30 who are interested in exploring and changing their relationship with substance use (i.e., cannabis, alcohol, cocaine, prescription medication, etc.). This virtual, 4-week group will help clients learn skills to manage substance cravings, increase their capacity to identify and cope with substance use triggers, and develop skills to foster self-compassion. The group will start on January 17, 2024 the fee includes all 4 weeks. Visit http://tinyurl.com/5y4w6tsm to sign up!
Photo of Dr. Natalie Kalb, Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Hosted by Dr. Natalie Kalb
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Group meets in Toronto, ON M6G
I believe that therapy is a creative opportunity to learn about ourselves. It is a safe space where we can write and rewrite the narratives of our lives. As a queer Mexican woman, I strive to cultivate a practice that is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and inclusivity and provide therapy that is trauma-informed, culturally humble, and neurodiversity & 2SLGBTQ+ affirming. I am privileged to facilitate an environment where my clients can engage in self-discovery, healing, and make changes towards living a meaningful life.
(647) 692-4417 View (647) 692-4417
Join this exciting new group to understand more about your attachment style and how it impacts the quality of your relationship, emotional intimacy, and how you deal with conflict. Being with a securely attached partner can positively impact your quality of life, and decrease your own insecure attachment patterns from causing further depression and anxiety and other distress. This is a safe space where all are welcome.
Photo of Cherish Picklyk - Cherish's Oasis Counselling, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP
Hosted by Cherish's Oasis Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4S
I help adults in their 20s-30s who want to feel happy again but are feeling stuck, lost, numb, or overwhelmed with life. My clients tell me that the pressure to choose the right degree, career, friends, or partner leads them to spiral into depression, anxiety, and other difficult feelings. They feel alone and misunderstood. They want to smile and feel like themself again, but don’t know how.
(647) 492-0913 View (647) 492-0913
A group to enable participants to take time for their grief with weekly topics ( proposed by group members). Making time for grief enables participants to function more effectively in their daily lives. The structure of each session includes topic introduction and theory, group exercises to help explore the topic and and free group sharing where the topic or any other issue might be addressed.
Photo of Ingrid Maryanna Phaneuf, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Hosted by Ingrid Maryanna Phaneuf
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Group meets in Toronto, ON M6G
We enter psychotherapy for a wide variety of reasons: The death or loss of a loved one, illness, job loss, divorce, addiction, etc., but all of us seek help because we are trying to find a better way to deal with the reality we are facing. My job as a psychotherapist is to help you talk about your emotions and reactions in a safe environment, figure out where these emotions and reactions are coming from, observe whether your reactions produce the desired outcomes and, discover new ways to react, if that would produce more desirable outcomes
(844) 892-4609 View (844) 892-4609
For occupational therapists who are earlier in their career or new to mental health and psychotherapy, I provide online small group supervision 1-2 times/month depending on the needs of the group.
Photo of Jennifer E Landry, Occupational Therapist, MSc
Hosted by Jennifer E Landry
Occupational Therapist, MSc
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4E
At Insight OT we love helping people live better! Collaborative and client-led, we offer a unique therapeutic approach that draws on both psychotherapy and occupational therapy. We are serious about providing exceptional therapy based on individual needs and circumstances. Committed to a customized approach and practical solutions, we offer high quality, affordable individual therapy sessions for people with concerns associated with trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, dissociative disorders, psychosis and insomnia.
(647) 724-4765 View (647) 724-4765
This is an 8-week, virtual therapy group for queer/gay/bi/trans men. Together we will: explore the experience of loneliness; nurture deeper social connections; engage in creative-based activities; practice relational skills; and build a stronger sense of belonging within self and community. This group is for queer/gay man who are: ages 20+; desiring deeper social connections; curious about the intersections of loneliness, queerness, and gender; and are willing to engage therapeutically and creatively (e.g. writing, art). Sessions are Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30, on October 2, 9, 16, 23, and November 6, 13, 20, 27.
Photo of Dan Bevan-Baker, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MTA, BMus
Hosted by Dan Bevan-Baker
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MTA, BMus
Group meets in Toronto, ON M6S
Stepping into therapy can be evocative. It invites us to delve into our inner world and befriend parts of ourselves who we discover - often the hurt, hidden, and hopeful. I join you for this journey as your guide and am committed to embodying collaboration, warmth, playfulness, curiosity, and compassion. In our space we will safely weave together your stories, explore meaningful insights, and experiment with new ways of being, feeling, and relating. My approach to care is rooted in anti-oppressive, intersectional, and trauma-informed frameworks. I also bring years of experience as a queer musician and music therapist into my work.
(289) 273-7986 View (289) 273-7986
As two psychotherapists and yoga teachers specializing in somatic practices and nervous system regulation, we understand the stress and disconnection that most people are experiencing right now. We’ve created this dynamic and interactive retreat day for you to explore a variety of mind-body integration practices to facilitate deeper connection with self, community and your inner joy and expansiveness. You can expect: guided yoga (restorative, yoga nidra, asana), expressive arts and movement practices to engage with a sense of expansion through the body, group sharing and peer support, guided self-compassion meditation and lunch.
Photo of Sehr Athar- Body Oriented, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Hosted by Sehr Athar- Body Oriented
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4M
Thanks for visiting <3 Perhaps this a moment of change-seeking in your life, maybe you're wanting to have better relationship with yourself and others, heal and change old patterns and feel lighter and resilient. Healing is a journey of reconnecting with ourselves through radical self-compassion, and accepting and embracing all of our parts. I offer a nonjudgmental space where we can work together to explore your inner world with curiosity, understand your adaptive responses and strategies, and tune into the wisdom of your body as a resource for change and growth. Together, we’ll navigate life’s waves with mind-body resiliency.
(437) 747-5841 View (437) 747-5841
Photo of Noah Mugenyi, Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, Author
Hosted by Noah Mugenyi
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, Author
Group meets in Toronto, ON M5E
(437) 886-6598 View (437) 886-6598
Betrayal can be a profoundly painful experience, leaving deep emotional scars and shattering your sense of trust and security. Whether you've been impacted by infidelity or other forms of broken trust, the effects can be overwhelming—leading to feelings of anger, grief, confusion, and loss of self-worth. Join our 8-week women's betrayal trauma group designed to help you heal and rebuild your life after experiencing betrayal in your intimate relationship. Utilizing the Facing Heartbreak workbook, this group provides a safe and supportive environment where you can explore feelings, share your story, and learn tools to move forward with strength and resilience.
Photo of Mirela Kovacevic Smith - First Step Men's Therapy - Men & Partners, Registered Social Worker, MA, RSW, CSAT, CCTP
Hosted by First Step Men's Therapy - Men & Partners
Registered Social Worker, MA, RSW, CSAT, CCTP
Group meets in Toronto, ON M5G
Betrayal can leave deep emotional wounds, disrupting your sense of trust and security. Our 8-week program is designed to help women heal from betrayal trauma, particularly those affected by infidelity or broken trust in intimate relationships. Using the Facing Heartbreak workbook, you'll explore the emotional impact of betrayal, develop coping strategies, and rebuild your sense of self-worth in a supportive, therapeutic environment. This group offers a safe space to share your experiences, regain your power, and move forward with confidence. We also offer one-on-one sessions for those seeking individual support tailored to their un.
(343) 453-4487 View (343) 453-4487
The 8-Week Healthy Sexuality & Masculinity Men's Group is a very powerful tool reduce shame in a man's life and to help a man come out of hiding. It is a deeply powerful experience to share vulnerability with other men in a safe setting and to realize that you are not alone. This group is ideal for men working through a sex or porn addiction, lack of assertiveness or difficulties with anger or wanting to improve intimacy in life. The group cost is $80 / week for a total of $640.
Photo of Eric Pierni - Men Therapy Toronto | Sex & Porn Addiction, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CSAT, EMDR
Hosted by Men Therapy Toronto | Sex & Porn Addiction
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CSAT, EMDR
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4P
Men Therapy Toronto offers counselling and psychotherapy services for men in Toronto, Ontario (GTA). Men Therapy Toronto specializes in both the diagnosis and treatment of sex and porn addiction along with men's mental health concerns. Our team consists of Registered Psychotherapists (RPs) and Certified Sex Addiction Therapists (CSAT). We support men working through issues related to anxiety, depression, anger management, career stress and trauma. We also run 4 8-week healthy sexuality and masculinity men's groups. Our offices are located in midtown Toronto (Yonge & Eglinton).
(855) 551-2261 View (855) 551-2261
This Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR) group is an 6-week group program that provides an introduction to a number of mindfulness meditation practices, including sitting meditation and movement practices (ex. gentle stretching) as a way to manage stress, anxiety and prevent relapse of depression episodes. The program weekly 2.5-hour group meetings, one 6-hour weekend retreat and committing to daily 20-45 min home practice for the duration of the course. This program is led by a qualified a MBSR instructor. Insurance receipts provided. Join the waitlist at www.backtothebreath.ca.
Photo of Mihaela Dirlea, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Hosted by Mihaela Dirlea
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Group meets in Toronto, ON M5S
As a Psychotherapist, Couples' Counsellor, and Qualified Mindfulness Instructor, I work with you to help you make sense of your own life experiences, understand how your past affects you now, and make positive changes. Mindfulness is an integral part of my personal and professional life. Since 2009 I have studied the intersection of Buddhism and Psychology and I have partnered with several government and public institutions to run accessible mindfulness programs (including MBSR) for staff and students (i.e. Ontario Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, UofT, Central LHIN, The Princess Margaret).
(647) 492-4318 View (647) 492-4318
Group process is used to help support diversity and implementing the Canada's National Standard of Psychological Health & Safety in the workplace and in schools.
Photo of Adrienne (Sharma) Richardson, Registered Psychotherapist, (RP), PhD, MSEd, OCT, CSAT
Hosted by Adrienne (Sharma) Richardson
Registered Psychotherapist, (RP), PhD, MSEd, OCT, CSAT
Group meets in Toronto, ON M5A
Niagara Falls & Toronto NO BS Approach! Specialize working with Complex Couples in Crisis (Gottman L3) PTSD Childhood Trauma Addictions ADHD- Trained in Gestalt Psychotherapy/Somatic Experiencing & have a PHD Leadership & Policy can support career & business development/coaching- holistic perspective. I will challenge you with respect, compassion & humor. Gain greater access to yourself, clarify processes that have been confusing and holding you back. Let's co-create a different way of being. It is not about a diagnosis it is about an awareness,an acceptance, and then a choice. Cannabis friendly therapist with many life experiences.
(855) 705-4730 View (855) 705-4730
Coming together with a group of others who have also suffered a loss can be helpful to process grief and build community and resilience. Being part of a group who understand what you are experiencing is powerful and it helps to know you are not alone. Grief groups are coordinated based on demand and meet once a week for 8 weeks.
Photo of Megan Quinn, Registered Psychotherapist, M Ed, RP
Hosted by Megan Quinn
Registered Psychotherapist, M Ed, RP
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4P
Grief can be completely devastating, and perhaps one of the most difficult things you may face in life. Grief is also a normal, human response to having loved and lost, and normal in the face of any loss, not just loss due to death. Grief is not a pathological problem in need of "fixing", but instead requires compassionate care, witness, and empathic support. It requires a safe space for its expression, and so do you. Whatever type of loss you are experiencing, your grieving heart needs extra TLC. There is nothing wrong with needing a little extra help or seeking the guidance of a counsellor at such a difficult time.
(647) 559-0167 View (647) 559-0167

See more therapy options for Toronto

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Toronto?

To find a support group in your area, start by entering your city, postal code, or the name of the group into the search bar at the top of the page. When searching, consider whether you prefer an in-person or virtual group. This can help you decide how broad your geographic search should be. If you are open to virtual groups, you might want to search by state instead of just your city, especially if there are limited options nearby.

Once you complete your search, you can use the filters to narrow the results by selecting specialties (such as grief, trauma, or eating disorders), therapeutic approaches, age groups, and other criteria to find a group that best fits your needs.

How does group therapy work?

Group therapy is led by one or more trained therapists and provides a space where participants can process their experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. Groups may focus on a specific issue—such as addiction, grief, physical illnesses, parenting, or caregiving—or they may center around a particular therapeutic approach, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), social skill development, or Exposure Therapy. Some groups are also designed for specific populations, such as teens, veterans, or LGBTQ+ individuals.

It’s also important to distinguish group therapy from peer-led support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous. While both can offer valuable support, therapy groups are typically led by licensed professionals and follow a more structured format. Therapy groups often meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many peer support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.

What are the benefits of group therapy?

Group therapy offers several important benefits. It brings together people facing similar challenges—whether related to mental health, physical health, or life transitions—and creates a supportive environment where participants can exchange feedback, share experiences, and learn from one another. Hearing different perspectives can help individuals discover new coping strategies and practical tools they may not have encountered on their own. Sharing personal experiences, such as coping with a serious illness or navigating family struggles, can also reduce feelings of isolation and foster a sense of connection and understanding. In addition to emotional support, group members often gain useful, real-world advice from peers who have faced similar situations.

Group therapy is typically more affordable than individual therapy and, for certain conditions, can be equally effective. Many groups also include structured activities—such as guided journaling, cognitive-behavioural exercises, or role-playing—to help participants develop concrete skills they can apply in daily life.

Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy?

It is difficult to make a blanket statement about the effectiveness of support groups, as they vary widely in focus and the conditions they address. However, support groups can be highly valuable in helping individuals gain emotional support and achieve meaningful treatment outcomes. For certain conditions, such as substance use, research has shown that group therapy can be particularly effective—sometimes just as effective as individual therapy—in supporting long-term recovery.

Many professionals attribute the effectiveness of group therapy to the unique benefits of the group setting, which fosters peer-to-peer learning and a sense of connection through shared experiences. Group settings also offer accountability and encouragement from both facilitators and fellow participants, which helps sustain motivation and supports continued progress. These factors together play a key role in promoting the overall effectiveness of group therapy.

How much does group therapy cost?

Group therapy is typically less expensive than individual therapy, with sessions typically costing between $90 and $100 each. In comparison, individual therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 or more per session, even with insurance. Some therapists or organisations offer low-cost or free group therapy options, particularly through community centers or non-profit organisations. In some cases, groups may require payment upfront for a set number of sessions, such as paying for six weekly sessions at the first meeting. However, many providers offer payment plans to help make participation more accessible if this upfront payment is required.

Does insurance cover group therapy?

If you have private insurance, your plan may cover some if not all of your group therapy sessions. You should contact your insurance provider to determine if they provide coverage for group therapy sessions and to determine what, if any, requirements they might have in order for your sessions to be covered, such as a referral from your GP or medical specialist.

How long does group therapy last?

The length of each group therapy session typically ranges from 45 minutes to two hours, depending on the therapy approach, the group’s goals, and how often the group meets. In some cases, group therapy is part of a larger treatment program, such as an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), where group sessions complement individual therapy and are scheduled as part of the program’s overall structure.

The duration of participation in a group also varies. Some groups are designed to be short-term, lasting anywhere from 6 to 24 weeks—for example, bereavement groups or skills-based groups like those using Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT). Other groups may be longer-term, lasting a year or more, and some ongoing support groups meet indefinitely, allowing participants to stay as long as they find the group helpful.

What are the limitations of support groups?

Support groups offer many benefits, but they also have certain limitations. Unlike therapy groups, many support groups do not provide formal therapeutic treatment and are not led by licensed mental health professionals. For individuals seeking clinical treatment for specific mental health diagnoses—such as depression, eating disorders, or substance use—individual therapy or group therapy led by a licensed professional may offer more personalised and specialised care.

The effectiveness of a support group also depends heavily on the group’s participants and the overall group dynamic. When members engage respectfully and offer constructive support, the group can foster valuable peer-to-peer learning. However, if certain participants dominate discussions, provide inaccurate advice, or create conflict, it can disrupt the group’s sense of safety and reduce its effectiveness. Confidentiality can also be harder to maintain in support groups, particularly in open groups where participants can join or leave at any time. With new members regularly entering the group, it can be more difficult to build and sustain a consistent sense of trust and privacy.