Support Groups in Berkshire

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This group is a reflective parenting space to meet and share your experience of parenthood with other dads. The group aims to help understand the thoughts, feelings and needs of both you and your child which can improve relationships in the family and normalise some of the struggles of being a parent. The group is made up of a maximum of 8 dads and takes place on the same day and time each week (with breaks for school holidays). Sessions last 90 minutes and are facilitated from my practice in Marlow.
Photo of Will Midlane, Counsellor, BACP
Hosted by Will Midlane
Counsellor, BACP
Group meets in Marlow SL7
I am a qualified and experienced psychotherapist and counsellor working in private practice with individuals, groups, and couples. I have worked in several settings including the NHS, Palliative Care, and the Ministry of Justice. People seek out psychotherapy for many different reasons, often though to find some relief from an emotional pain. Psychotherapy and counselling are methods of talking therapies that are useful in understanding difficulties in how you think and feel in relation to yourself, the world, and others.
01628 969909 View 01628 969909
A program for social anxiety.
Photo of Linda Kathryn Berkeley, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Hosted by Linda Kathryn Berkeley
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Group meets in Lambourn RG17
You are the expert on yourself an only you can decide what might work for you. We will form a plan together, perhaps over the course of two to three sessions, of how we can proceed, and what we collaboratively believe is going on for you. You will find my practice is based on a humanistic, integrative, pluralistic blending of possibilities from several frameworks, including CBT, Gestalt, Compassion Focused Therapy, ideas from psychodynamic practice, with a person-centred, humanistic core.
01793 234332 View 01793 234332
Coaching Psychologists (ICF, MISCP ) working on life, business, management' s issues and success. Personal development, Organisational problem-solving, Leadership growth. KIP
Photo of Laura Bertha, Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Occup. Psych.
Hosted by Laura Bertha
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Occup. Psych.
Group meets in Reading RG2
I work together with my clients on their unique issues and goals. Singles, couples, families and groups. My specialties are in counseling, mindfulness, relaxation, meditation, business and leadership coaching, along with occupational psychology for companies and their managers. My practice is based in Reading and London, onsite or via Skype. The sessions range from 30 minutes to 12 hours, depending on your needs. I have over 30 years of experience and would love to help you grow, find balance and achieve success.
0118 230 0604 View 0118 230 0604
Overcoming Divorce a small group therapy programme for adult individuals who have experienced the trauma of divorce. The impact of which can be long term without therapeutic intervention. these include psychological effects such as depression, anxiety, stress, financial distress and low self-esteem. Employing a strength-based approach, clients will benefit from the support of group synergy, creative expression of self. You will be able to manage your emotions, tap into your hidden personal strengths, reclaim your identity, raise your self-esteem, improve your communication and relationships. This programme will result in you rebuilding your life and finding your way back to personal fulfilment.
Photo of Angela Sterling-Noel, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Hosted by Angela Sterling-Noel
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Group meets in Slough SL1
Hello when you are stressed, depressed or anxious looking for the right Counsellor or Life Coach can be a very challenging task. I believe that it takes a strength of character to admit to yourself that you need the help of another person. I offer you a warm and confidential space where you can share with me the things that are a major concern to you at this time. I offer an initial half-hour complimentary session to establish a collaborative decision on the way forward.
01628 951276 View 01628 951276
Healing Grief in Nature is a programme of 6 weekly meetings for people who are bereaved following the death of a partner. The group will begin on Thursday 24 April to 29 May 2025, 2 to 4.30pm, taking place in the holding environment of Braywick Nature Reserve. In the first part of each supportive group, facilitated by psychotherapist Esther Ramsay-Jones, you will be invited to share your experience of grief in conjunction with nature. The second part will focus on restorative activities, led by Alistair Will, nature guide, Environment Engagement Manager for the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.
Photo of Esther Ramsay-Jones, Psychotherapist, PhD, BPC
Hosted by Esther Ramsay-Jones
Psychotherapist, PhD, BPC
Group meets in Maidenhead SL6
With experience in palliative care and counselling settings, I have come to recognise that we can change profoundly through the therapeutic process. As I understand it, we are ever shifting throughout the lifecourse, yet sometimes frustrated by repeating moments of stuckness. As a BPC-registered therapist, with an MSc in Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy and psychoanalytically informed PhD, our work may involve developing awareness of both those internal and external obstacles to discover greater freedoms in life. My specialism is in supporting people with chronic illness, deep grief and loss.
01628 334457 View 01628 334457
The Marlow Counselling Group of psychotherapists and counsellors based in Marlow will refer you to the counsellor that most suits your individual needs. We work together to ensure that you will receive the best possible support.
Photo of Valerie Manners, Counsellor, MBACP
Hosted by Valerie Manners
Counsellor, MBACP
Group meets in Marlow SL7
On-line CBT Counselling Specialist, Therapeutic Coach and Face to Face Practitioner - MBACP. For 15 years I have been in private practice in Harley Street, London, Marlow in Bucks and Hove in Sussex. I have been offering video consultations via Zoom, WhatsApp and other platforms for many years. This has the advantage of being conducted at your convenience from your own front room. You can choose the platform that you are most familiar with e.g. Zoom, Facetime, WhatsApp or Skype. Cognitive behavioural therapy is proven to make a big difference to anxiety and depression and it is also approved by the NHS.
01494 360824 View 01494 360824
General stress management with information applying to depression and anxiety.
Photo of Linda Kathryn Berkeley, Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Hosted by Linda Kathryn Berkeley
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Group meets in Lambourn RG17
You are the expert on yourself an only you can decide what might work for you. We will form a plan together, perhaps over the course of two to three sessions, of how we can proceed, and what we collaboratively believe is going on for you. You will find my practice is based on a humanistic, integrative, pluralistic blending of possibilities from several frameworks, including CBT, Gestalt, Compassion Focused Therapy, ideas from psychodynamic practice, with a person-centred, humanistic core.
01793 234332 View 01793 234332

See more therapy options for Berkshire

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Berkshire?

To find a support group in your area, start by entering your city, postcode, 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 £45 to £60 each. In comparison, individual therapy can cost anywhere from £60 to £150 or more per session, even with insurance. Some therapists or organizations offer low-cost or free group therapy options, particularly through community centers or non-profit organizations. 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.