Support Groups in Whitby, ON

Photo of Iren Karki-Sodhi, Registered Psychotherapist, MCP, RP
Hosted by Iren Karki-Sodhi
Registered Psychotherapist, MCP, RP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
(289) 274-7626 View (289) 274-7626
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a well researched, evidence-based treatment originally designed for Borderline Personality Disorder. This therapy blends Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), focusing on our thoughts and actions, and Zen Buddhism which focuses on becoming a mindful observer of one’s experiences. This program can be an excellent addition to your current therapy or as done as a self-help program. It's a 24 week long program focused on teaching these 4 modules: Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness & Distress Tolerance Online Classes run in repeated cycles, so you can start at different times of the year.
Photo of Sharmila Jaihindraj, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Hosted by Sharmila Jaihindraj
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
Are you struggling with anxiety, addiction, grief, or depression? Have you experienced trauma or abuse? Are you a first responder or front-line worker who is exposed to long-term stress? The difficulties that we experience in life directly impact our ability to thrive. Taking the first steps to heal are difficult - I am here to help.
(289) 806-5068 View (289) 806-5068
A ten week personal growth and empowerment group for women. Explore your thoughts and emotions as related to life's challenges. Receive guidance, information, and practical strategies to help navigate those challenges. You will have the chance to express your creativity and experience guided meditation. This is a wonderful opportunity to work with other women who are also dedicated to healing themselves. **The HeartsEase Healing Group is not currently running - Please Contact Sheila to be notified when it resumes**
Photo of Sheila Raitt, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, HBA
Hosted by Sheila Raitt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, HBA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
Hello and welcome. I'm here to support you as you overcome your current challenges and recover from the painful wounds you carry and/or trauma you may have endured. You don't have to do it alone. You can explore: stress, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, anger, grief, overwhelm, self-esteem, etc. I work with adults healing the wounds of childhood: emotional, psychological, physical and sexual abuse, indifference, neglect, and other traumas. The healing process is a transformative one, involving an honest and open exploration of your thoughts and emotions; if you are ready to do this, we are likely a good therapeutic fit.
(289) 512-2856 View (289) 512-2856
Relational Roots is an online, 6-month closed process group for therapists who want to explore their emotional experiences and relational patterns in real-time interactions. This group offers a safe, supportive space to reflect on how you connect, communicate, and navigate conflict and emotions with partners, friends, and others in your life. It’s not about your clients—it’s about you and your emotional journey in relationship. Groups run June–December 2025. Thursday evenings or Friday mornings. Reach out to secure your spot!
Photo of Ekaterina Kapoustina, Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Hosted by Ekaterina Kapoustina
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
As a helping professional, do you find that the emotional demands of your work are leaving you disconnected from your partner or feeling emotionally shut off? Conversations may feel tense or lacking in depth, and the intimacy you once shared seems to be slipping away. Whether you’re in a monogamous relationship or exploring Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM), relationship challenges can feel overwhelming. Especially if you are not used to asking for help, having always held the role of a helper, or having learned that your needs will not be met no matter how hard you try to voice it. You don't have to feel alone on the path to reconnection!
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I'm excited to offer a safe space for individuals with ostomies to share their experiences, learn coping strategies, and build community. My experience working at a medical supply store provided me with valuable insights into the practical and emotional aspects of ostomy care. I combine that knowledge with my therapeutic expertise to offer compassionate and effective support. I believe in empowering individuals to live full and confident lives, and I'm excited to be a part of this support group to connect with others and foster a community of understanding and encouragement.
Photo of Emily Sukhra, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBSc, MACP
Hosted by Emily Sukhra
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBSc, MACP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
Life throws curveballs, and sometimes you just need a safe space to talk about it all. I'm a psychotherapist who believes in creating a judgment-free zone where you can be completely yourself. I bring warmth, understanding, and a touch of humor to our sessions, because sometimes, laughing at the absurdity of it all can be the most healing thing. As we embark on this journey together, my priority is to create a space where you feel truly seen and heard. My approach centers on transparency and authentic connection.
(289) 206-1569 View (289) 206-1569
Next Round Begins Fall 2025. This 6-week women's group blends therapy, guided reflection, transformational exercises, visualization, and somatic breathwork to help you heal past wounds and create meaningful shifts in your life. Each week you'll receive a pre-recorded lesson exploring themes like inner child healing, inner teen healing, and understanding patterns of perfectionism and people-pleasing. We’ll meet live for group discussions and breathwork to integrate your growth. This program offers deep self-awareness, emotional release, and a supportive community. Virtual. IFS inspired. May be covered by insurance. Email to register: victoriapullawellness@gmail.com.
Photo of Victoria Pulla, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Hosted by Victoria Pulla
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
Accepting New Clients Online! You're in a cycle feeling trapped by the fear of making a “mistake”, while your mind races through “what if” scenarios, replaying past decisions and assessing if you're measuring up to your own expectations. You’re struggling with overwhelming emotions: sadness, doubt, self-judgement, and the urge to please others. Here’s the truth: you’ve already shown inner strength by seeking help. Your recognition for change and transformation are testaments to your desire for growth and fulfillment in life. This desire is the spark that ignites lasting change and I’m here to guide you on this empowering journey!
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This group is designed to support mothers in learning effective techniques to help their babies sleep better. We will discuss sleep training methods, bedtime routines, and how to manage sleep challenges.
Photo of Nila Mensah - Mensah Psychotherapy , Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW, BA
Hosted by Mensah Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW, BA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
If you're facing mental health struggles, whether it's anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship challenges, or parenting concerns, you’re not alone. Reaching out for support is a courageous step, and we commend you for taking it. Therapy isn’t always easy it requires effort and commitment but that effort can lead to meaningful change, self-discovery, and personal growth.
(289) 301-8428 View (289) 301-8428
DBT SKILLS GROUP - AGES 12+ Beginning July 2023 Looking for support and skills to manage intense emotions, relationships, and stress? Our teen DBT group can help! Our experienced therapists provide a safe and non-judgmental space for teens to learn and practice Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills together. Gain tools for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and more. Join our community of teens who are committed to building resilience and thriving.
Photo of Sarah Long, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Hosted by Sarah Long
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
Does your child struggle academically, socially, or behaviorally? Does your child have big emotions and not know how to properly express them? Has there been a big change in your child’s life that is influencing a change in behavior? Allow me to offer some guidance and support.
(289) 276-8659 View (289) 276-8659
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a well researched, evidence-based treatment originally designed for Borderline Personality Disorder. This therapy blends Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), focusing on our thoughts and actions, and Zen Buddhism which focuses on becoming a mindful observer of one’s experiences. This program can be an excellent addition to your current therapy or as done as a self-help program. It's a 24 week long program focused on teaching these 4 modules: Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness & Distress Tolerance Online Classes run in repeated cycles, so you can start at different times of the year.
Photo of Shelley Jones, Registered Psychotherapist
Hosted by Shelley Jones
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
30 years of experience working with children ages 5-25 years. I am honest, calm, fair, and a nonjudgmental therapist able to create real and meaningful relationships with children, youth, and their parents. I am a caring, fair, and a results-oriented type of person. I enjoy building a relationship that is honest, fair, empathetic, and positive for my clients because I firmly believe that it is through a supportive and non-judgmental relationship that the healing begins and therapeutic results are delivered. My goal is to help the child heal and learn how to cope with their thoughts and emotions
(289) 216-6638 View (289) 216-6638
Breathwork is the therapeutic practice of intentional breathing. It is a holistic therapy modality used to promote a stronger mind-body connection, develop deeper self awareness and explore introspectively. This event has been carefully curated to provide you with a safe and welcoming space to dive deeper in to self awareness and release what is no longer serving you. The event includes intention setting, guided conscious connected breathing, reflections and integration. This event is for all experience levels, whether you practice breathwork regularly or this will be your first time.
Photo of Meghan Joseph, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Hosted by Meghan Joseph
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
When our emotions feel too big for the spaces we are in, it can cause us to feel out of control or like we don’t belong. This experience is so confusing because we didn’t choose to have big emotions! We become so desperate to stop the pain that we go to great lengths to feel relief. Sometimes that ends up being through conflict with the people around us, substance use or self-harm. I want you to know that you don’t have to go through it alone anymore. I work with adults, teens, young adults and parents who are looking for meaning change.
(365) 297-2233 View (365) 297-2233
A group to discuss an array of loss related to death, health, pregnancy, or employment. We will discuss the reality of the loss, adjusting to the loss, creating a connection and/or making meaning of the loss and moving forward with the loss experience. Contact Laura at laura@bewelltherapy.ca to register or learn more. $160/4 weeks.
Photo of Laura Boyko, Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, MEd
Hosted by Laura Boyko
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
You have likely encountered some challenging times recently, or else you wouldn’t be here. Feeling stuck and not knowing how to move forward? You may not know where that journey will take you, but I can help be your personal guide. I believe my main role is to help observe and facilitate your personal journey. Imagine a life of clarity, love and freedom from the negative thoughts or emotions that fill your head and binds you. Imagine waking up every day feeling in control of whatever might come your way; knowing that you have the internal strength to deal with and manage it. Imagine being the best version of YOU.
(365) 800-6595 View (365) 800-6595
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is a well researched, evidence-based treatment originally designed for Borderline Personality Disorder. This therapy blends Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), focusing on our thoughts and actions, and Zen Buddhism which focuses on becoming a mindful observer of one’s experiences. This program can be an excellent addition to your current therapy or as done as a self-help program. It's a 24 week long program focused on teaching these 4 modules: Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness & Distress Tolerance Online Classes run in repeated cycles, so you can start at different times of the year.
Photo of Fatima Tahir, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Hosted by Fatima Tahir
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
Are you or your teenager struggling with anxiety, depression, or borderline personality disorder? Have you been drinking or abusing drugs in an effort to self-medicate? Do you need help managing stress, chronic pain, or the effects of trauma? You can identify the emotions that are holding you back and learn to cope successfully. If you need help recovering from difficult childhood experiences, sexual abuse, or other forms of trauma, contact me to get the help that you or your child need. Together, we will work on building your strengths, gaining insights, and building the coping skills that help you build a better life.
(365) 655-0851 View (365) 655-0851
Men of Courage is a 10 week group program designed for adult men recovering from childhood sexual and/or physical abuse. The group is tailored toward the needs of men and focuses on their unique experiences of trauma. The goal of the group is to enhance knowledge about the impacts of abuse and aid individuals in the development of coping strategies. The group will help members to: - understand the impact of trauma - identify and manage triggers,feelings and flashbacks - improve relationships and build trust - reduce feeling of shame, loneliness and guilt
Photo of Derek Wright, BSW, MSW, RSW
Hosted by Derek Wright
BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
If you feel unhappy with where you’re at in your life and don’t want to burden others with your problems, therapy can help. Feeling that you are not alone and that someone understands you is critical to starting to feel better. Even though it may not feel like it right now, you can become stronger and feel better.
(289) 271-0758 View (289) 271-0758
8-week group (2hrs, 1x/week) for individuals actively parenting infant under 24 months of age, and want to develop strong & healthy parent-child relationship, which promotes infant attachment security, social emotional development and well-being. Parents learn about: Attachment (What is it, why so important, how can I foster secure attachment?), Personality (What's my baby's temperament & how fits with my own?), Communicating (What to do with my baby during daily routines?), Watching (What's my baby trying to tell me?), Following Child's Lead in Play (How to watch, wait & listen, & why important), Connecting & Responding (How can I approach my distressed child?)
Photo of Jennifer Vieira, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Hosted by Jennifer Vieira
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
As a parent and a Child & Family Therapist for 23 yrs, I understand how raising children can be one of the hardest & most important jobs we do. The proverb “It takes a village to raise a child” resonates with me as it may with you, especially if your child is experiencing social, emotional &/or behavioural challenges. Perhaps your child deals with significant anxiety, is having difficulty managing emotions or coping with major family changes, or experienced trauma. Or, maybe you’re a parent just looking for some guidance, or you have an infant/toddler & want to learn more about building a healthy relationship right from the start.
(365) 376-9604 View (365) 376-9604
Navigating the leap from college into “real life” can be overwhelming. It can stir up anxiety, self-doubt, and a sense of disconnection. This weekly therapy group is a space for young adults to explore the pressure to “have it all figured out”, shifts in identity, and more. Through open conversation and shared experiences we’ll explore how anxiety shows up in real time, practice tools for self-regulation, connection, and clarity, while also building insight and emotional resilience. My background is in working with college students and love providing opportunities to decrease isolation while navigating transition periods! Starts July.
Photo of Ekaterina Kapoustina, Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Hosted by Ekaterina Kapoustina
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
As a helping professional, do you find that the emotional demands of your work are leaving you disconnected from your partner or feeling emotionally shut off? Conversations may feel tense or lacking in depth, and the intimacy you once shared seems to be slipping away. Whether you’re in a monogamous relationship or exploring Ethical Non-Monogamy (ENM), relationship challenges can feel overwhelming. Especially if you are not used to asking for help, having always held the role of a helper, or having learned that your needs will not be met no matter how hard you try to voice it. You don't have to feel alone on the path to reconnection!
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In this small group we will use writing as a tool for healing in a safe and supportive virtual community space. Using writing prompts (eg. poetry, prose, imagery) drawn from various artists you will be guided gently into your own inner world of emotion, inquiry, memory, and imagination. We will write together to find our voices, explore what limits them, create inner-safety for their emergence, and give each other courage through community. No previous writing experience is necessary. We are all writers and story-tellers by virtue of our humanity. PLEASE NOTE: This group is facilitated by our amazing psychotherapy intern Allison Oke.
Photo of Allison Sebastian, Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Hosted by Allison Sebastian
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1M
Life can be very difficult. You don't have to go through it alone. My name is Allison and I am the director at Seasons Psychotherapy, where my small team of caring psychotherapists is dedicated to providing our clients with a safe non-judgemental space to explore their mindbody health and move toward healing. We provide trauma-informed care, grounded in our core values: Safety, Non-violence/Non-forcing, Client Choice for Pace and Space, Curiosity, Creativity in Meeting Client Needs, Mindfulness, Wholeness as Anti-oppression, Unity, Organicity, Loving Presence, Trusting Emotions as Information, and Understanding the Process of Pain.
(905) 999-4894 View (905) 999-4894
Does your child tend to experience very intense emotions? Do they have difficulty calming down when really upset? Does it seem like they go from 0-100 quickly, without any warning? Are they highly sensitive and easily triggered? If so, then this 2-hour workshop is for you. Among other things, parents/caregivers will learn: Understanding Emotion Regulation; What parents can specifically do to support their child's development of emotion regulation skills; What is Co-Regulation exactly & why important?; Are you co-regulating or co-escalating?; Partnering with teacher for help at school; Resources and availability of additional support.
Photo of Jennifer Vieira, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Hosted by Jennifer Vieira
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Whitby, ON L1N
As a parent and a Child & Family Therapist for 23 yrs, I understand how raising children can be one of the hardest & most important jobs we do. The proverb “It takes a village to raise a child” resonates with me as it may with you, especially if your child is experiencing social, emotional &/or behavioural challenges. Perhaps your child deals with significant anxiety, is having difficulty managing emotions or coping with major family changes, or experienced trauma. Or, maybe you’re a parent just looking for some guidance, or you have an infant/toddler & want to learn more about building a healthy relationship right from the start.
(365) 376-9604 View (365) 376-9604

More Groups Nearby

This group therapy supports its participants in a non-judgmental environment for addressing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Struggling with symptoms of anxiety and depression can present in multiple ways, such as; having low self-esteem and low-confidence and can manifest in your work/ school life, relationships, and your overall identity. Through self-exploration and shared experiences, this group aims to foster personal growth, identity development, and a deeper sense of self-worth and belonging. For this group, we invite individuals ages 18-35 with the intent to encourage a relatable and comfortable community. Will be held online.
Photo of Robyn Cheung, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Hosted by Robyn Cheung
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Toronto, ON M4W
Psychotherapy is a powerful space for self-exploration—whether it’s prioritizing your needs, practicing self-compassion, navigating relationships, or embracing cultural diversity. As an Asian-Canadian female therapist, I understand the complexities of identity, belonging, and lived experiences. Growing up in an immigrant family can bring unique challenges. Balancing your personal identity with cultural expectations may create tension. I help individuals navigate generational gaps, differing values, and family expectations, fostering self-acceptance and meaningful connections—on their own terms
(647) 694-6342 View (647) 694-6342
Do you feel like you carry too much? Everyday feels the same? I am thrilled to offer an 8 week group program beginning in April, aimed at women who have either been betrayed, experiencing isolation from peers or need help developing healthier boundaries. Unburden your worries and increase connection with other women. Registration closes April 8th, 2022. Please visit our website https://www.peterstathakos.com click Betrayed Partners and click Healing-within-a-group for more information and to register.
Photo of Alexandra Hazi, Registered Social Worker
Hosted by Alexandra Hazi
Registered Social Worker
Not Verified Not Verified
Group meets in Toronto, ON M6G
You are hurt beyond belief. The person you trusted; the person that committed to you. The person who told you that they love you.... is the person that has betrayed you! This is a shocking discovery, even if it is not the first time! I understand the heart ache, the confusion and the difficulty in trying to navigate your present pain and work towards re-grounding yourself and healing.
(437) 747-6275 View (437) 747-6275
The Compassion Focused Parenting Program is a 6-week online group therapy program designed to help parents and caregivers of children (6-11yo) with emotional and behavioural difficulties. This program may be helpful for parents and caregivers who experience high levels of stress, self-criticism, or burnout. The focus of this group program is to equip parents with skills and perspectives to resolve their child’s emotional or behavioural needs. Join us every Thursday evening from Jan 23rd - Feb 27th 2025 via Zoom, $50/session ($350 total, registration required). Learn more at www.torontocft.com/programs
Photo of Katarina Guillen, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA Hons
Hosted by Katarina Guillen
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA Hons
Verified Verified
Group meets in Toronto, ON M5C
Life can be tough, especially if you are feeling stuck, alone, disconnected, burned out, or like something is missing. You’ve taken the first step in making a change, which is never easy. It takes a great deal of strength and commitment to work on your goals and your relationships, and I am here to offer support and guidance. I believe that our lived experiences impact the way we interact with ourselves and others. Exploring these influences can help us grow, and improve our relationships and communication. Together, we can work on developing a deeper understanding of yourself, strengthening your relationships, and creating change.
(548) 906-5124 View (548) 906-5124

See more therapy options for Whitby

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Whitby?

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.