Support Groups in 01581
This group helps you navigate through the many lifestyle changes (i.e., putting oneself first; managing cravings) necessary for successful adjustment to post-operative life.

This group helps you navigate through the many lifestyle changes (i.e., putting oneself first; managing cravings) necessary for successful adjustment to post-operative life.
A safe space for teachers to share about the unique challenges they are facing as educators, provide opportunities to learn from one another, and to discuss therapeutic strategies.

A safe space for teachers to share about the unique challenges they are facing as educators, provide opportunities to learn from one another, and to discuss therapeutic strategies.
This group teaches meditation and mindfulness techniques to help clients manage life stress and symptoms of anxiety and depression. It also gives clients tools they can use at home and a list of free resources they can access online.

This group teaches meditation and mindfulness techniques to help clients manage life stress and symptoms of anxiety and depression. It also gives clients tools they can use at home and a list of free resources they can access online.
DBT is a specialized treatment protocol that addresses problematic behaviors that individuals have developed to cope with overwhelming emotions. Some of these behaviors may be self-injury, suicidal thoughts/behaviors, substance use, sudden and intense anger, and difficulty in relationships. DBT combines unconditional validation of an individual's emotional experience while teaching concrete strategies to manage intense emotions effectively and build "a life worth living." Our full DBT programs include DBT Skills Groups, DBT Individual Therapy, Skills Coaching for Parents, and in-the-moment coaching. We also accept referrals for our DBT Skills Group as adjunct to traditional therapy.

Hosted by Castlebrook Counseling Services, Inc.
Treatment Center, LICSW
Group meets in Westborough, MA 01581
DBT is a specialized treatment protocol that addresses problematic behaviors that individuals have developed to cope with overwhelming emotions. Some of these behaviors may be self-injury, suicidal thoughts/behaviors, substance use, sudden and intense anger, and difficulty in relationships. DBT combines unconditional validation of an individual's emotional experience while teaching concrete strategies to manage intense emotions effectively and build "a life worth living." Our full DBT programs include DBT Skills Groups, DBT Individual Therapy, Skills Coaching for Parents, and in-the-moment coaching. We also accept referrals for our DBT Skills Group as adjunct to traditional therapy.
DBT is a specialized treatment protocol that addresses problematic behaviors that individuals have developed to cope with overwhelming emotions. Some of these behaviors may be self-injury, suicidal thoughts/behaviors, substance use, sudden and intense anger, and difficulty in relationships. DBT combines unconditional validation of an individual's emotional experience while teaching concrete strategies to manage intense emotions effectively and build "a life worth living." Our DBT program for adults includes weekly DBT Skills Groups, weekly DBT Individual Therapy, and in-the-moment coaching support.

Hosted by Castlebrook Counseling Services, Inc.
Treatment Center, LICSW
Group meets in Westborough, MA 01581
DBT is a specialized treatment protocol that addresses problematic behaviors that individuals have developed to cope with overwhelming emotions. Some of these behaviors may be self-injury, suicidal thoughts/behaviors, substance use, sudden and intense anger, and difficulty in relationships. DBT combines unconditional validation of an individual's emotional experience while teaching concrete strategies to manage intense emotions effectively and build "a life worth living." Our DBT program for adults includes weekly DBT Skills Groups, weekly DBT Individual Therapy, and in-the-moment coaching support.
This group gently encourages healthy risk-taking behaviors (i.e., initiating conversations; self-advocacy; expanding one's social circle). Separate groups are available for people in their 20's, 30's, and 40's.

This group gently encourages healthy risk-taking behaviors (i.e., initiating conversations; self-advocacy; expanding one's social circle). Separate groups are available for people in their 20's, 30's, and 40's.
DBT Skills for Parents groups are for family members of clients participating in our DBT Skills Groups, and a required component of Castlebrook's DBT Skills Groups for Adolescents. We also welcome parents of teens, young adults, and adults who are not currently attending one of our DBT Skills Groups, or are not even in therapy but struggle with challenging emotions and behaviors. In this 12-Week series, members will learn core foundational concepts of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, how high-sensitivity individuals process interactions differently, and ways to coach skills usage at home.

Hosted by Castlebrook Counseling Services, Inc.
Treatment Center, LICSW
Group meets in Westborough, MA 01581
DBT Skills for Parents groups are for family members of clients participating in our DBT Skills Groups, and a required component of Castlebrook's DBT Skills Groups for Adolescents. We also welcome parents of teens, young adults, and adults who are not currently attending one of our DBT Skills Groups, or are not even in therapy but struggle with challenging emotions and behaviors. In this 12-Week series, members will learn core foundational concepts of Dialectical Behavior Therapy, how high-sensitivity individuals process interactions differently, and ways to coach skills usage at home.

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Clients are taught about psychiatric disorders and substance use (dual disorders), the recovery process from dual disorders and coping skills to prevent relapse.

Hosted by Marcia Joan Amarsingh
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSc, LADC- 1, CDP, CADC
Group meets in Worcester, MA 01608
Clients are taught about psychiatric disorders and substance use (dual disorders), the recovery process from dual disorders and coping skills to prevent relapse.
Mealtimes can be the hardest part of eating disorder recovery. If you need a little extra support, this group is for you! Each group begins with a time for checking in and setting intentions, and includes a skill or concept tailored to meal-time challenges. We then eat lunch together, with coaching and peer support, followed by an opportunity to process the experience together. The group is open, with a 4-week commitment. It is perfect for people coming out of a more structured program, or for those who need some extra support to jump-start recovery.

Mealtimes can be the hardest part of eating disorder recovery. If you need a little extra support, this group is for you! Each group begins with a time for checking in and setting intentions, and includes a skill or concept tailored to meal-time challenges. We then eat lunch together, with coaching and peer support, followed by an opportunity to process the experience together. The group is open, with a 4-week commitment. It is perfect for people coming out of a more structured program, or for those who need some extra support to jump-start recovery.
This is an Advanced DBT Group for women with eating disorders who already have an understanding of DBT, and who are medically stable. Group members must be in individual therapy while attending group.
The focus of the group is skills integration for reducing ED behaviors, maintaining recovery, and managing everyday life stressors.

This is an Advanced DBT Group for women with eating disorders who already have an understanding of DBT, and who are medically stable. Group members must be in individual therapy while attending group.
The focus of the group is skills integration for reducing ED behaviors, maintaining recovery, and managing everyday life stressors.
Newton Play Therapy is passionate about children's mental health. Our mission is to provide developmentally appropriate therapeutic interventions to children of all ages. To meet this end, we are committed to the continuous education and training of our clinicians in the evidence based practice of Play Therapy.

Newton Play Therapy is passionate about children's mental health. Our mission is to provide developmentally appropriate therapeutic interventions to children of all ages. To meet this end, we are committed to the continuous education and training of our clinicians in the evidence based practice of Play Therapy.
It’s a MYTH that professionals, serving the emotional health needs of others have their own all sewn up. Although, in fact, most are skilled and effective, like all human beings we are a work in progress. Firstly there are the occupational hazards of fatigue, unreal expectations, and living with uncertain results. When these challenges exist, however, over a layer of pre-existing personal/interpersonal challenge the toll is multiplied. I have led dynamically oriented relational process groups for members of the helping professions for 20 years and I have found it effective for discovery, deepening connections, increased self esteem, repair and rejuvenation.

Hosted by Howie Schnairsohn- - - - -Group Therapist (Young Adults)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , MSW, MS, CGP
Group meets in Cambridge, MA 02138
It’s a MYTH that professionals, serving the emotional health needs of others have their own all sewn up. Although, in fact, most are skilled and effective, like all human beings we are a work in progress. Firstly there are the occupational hazards of fatigue, unreal expectations, and living with uncertain results. When these challenges exist, however, over a layer of pre-existing personal/interpersonal challenge the toll is multiplied. I have led dynamically oriented relational process groups for members of the helping professions for 20 years and I have found it effective for discovery, deepening connections, increased self esteem, repair and rejuvenation.
Adults (18+). Hybrid Format (in-person or virtually, to enhance accessibility). Maximum of 8 members. Runs on a 12 weeks/90mins; New members may join at the start of a new module during the cycle. This structured group focuses on providing members with a comfortable environment in which to learn the DBT skills from the modules of: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotional Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. Groups include experiential skills and activities, as well as home practice with an accompanying workbook.

Adults (18+). Hybrid Format (in-person or virtually, to enhance accessibility). Maximum of 8 members. Runs on a 12 weeks/90mins; New members may join at the start of a new module during the cycle. This structured group focuses on providing members with a comfortable environment in which to learn the DBT skills from the modules of: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotional Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. Groups include experiential skills and activities, as well as home practice with an accompanying workbook.
A 5 session program for those interested in learning how to use therapeutic movement, breathing techniques, mindfulness and meditation, to find release from stress and improve well-being. In our practice we will be drawing on the Eastern traditions of Yoga, Ayurveda, Chi Gong/ Tai Chi, as well as allowing, in the best of Western tradition, the opportunity for sharing and open discussion, all in a safe and supportive environment. Note: this is not a Psychotherapy group, so may not be covered by your medical insurance, yet it is a wonderful adjunct to therapy. Please call/email in advance, since space is limited.

A 5 session program for those interested in learning how to use therapeutic movement, breathing techniques, mindfulness and meditation, to find release from stress and improve well-being. In our practice we will be drawing on the Eastern traditions of Yoga, Ayurveda, Chi Gong/ Tai Chi, as well as allowing, in the best of Western tradition, the opportunity for sharing and open discussion, all in a safe and supportive environment. Note: this is not a Psychotherapy group, so may not be covered by your medical insurance, yet it is a wonderful adjunct to therapy. Please call/email in advance, since space is limited.
I am currently accepting clients for an online Self Love/Compassion group for women. This group is slated to start in September and will be weekly for 7 weeks. This will be a therapist facilitated, interactive and educational group.

I am currently accepting clients for an online Self Love/Compassion group for women. This group is slated to start in September and will be weekly for 7 weeks. This will be a therapist facilitated, interactive and educational group.
Therapeutic board game group for ages 7-9; 10-14; 15-18. Clinician led small groups for kids with social skills difficulties. Beginning November 2024. Call today for more information.

Therapeutic board game group for ages 7-9; 10-14; 15-18. Clinician led small groups for kids with social skills difficulties. Beginning November 2024. Call today for more information.
Well trained, supportive clinicians work with clients to achieve personal goals, emotional healthiness, and life satisfaction. Our environment is one of support and safety so that clients are able to do their best work. Bright futures, healthy minds!
Hosted by Stephanie Mancini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Group meets in Sturbridge, MA 01566
Well trained, supportive clinicians work with clients to achieve personal goals, emotional healthiness, and life satisfaction. Our environment is one of support and safety so that clients are able to do their best work. Bright futures, healthy minds!
I will be starting a virtual therapy group to help clients understand and integrate their inner child into their current life. When we have unprocessed emotions from childhood, we call this the inner child. When the emotions did not get integrated, the inner child becomes protective and can run the show causing limitations in our adult life. In this group we will begin the process of integrating the inner child so that it does not dominate.

I will be starting a virtual therapy group to help clients understand and integrate their inner child into their current life. When we have unprocessed emotions from childhood, we call this the inner child. When the emotions did not get integrated, the inner child becomes protective and can run the show causing limitations in our adult life. In this group we will begin the process of integrating the inner child so that it does not dominate.
Women with breast cancer can carry life-long physical and emotional changes that impact many areas of their lives and relationships. For many, that impact may not end when the treatment does. Many women face breast cancer as a life-long and ongoing experience. Dr. Megan Brault, a breast cancer-survivor herself, facilitates this support group focused on the female experience from diagnosis, to treatment, to survivor/thriver-ship.

Women with breast cancer can carry life-long physical and emotional changes that impact many areas of their lives and relationships. For many, that impact may not end when the treatment does. Many women face breast cancer as a life-long and ongoing experience. Dr. Megan Brault, a breast cancer-survivor herself, facilitates this support group focused on the female experience from diagnosis, to treatment, to survivor/thriver-ship.
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FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in 01581?
To find a support group in your area, start by entering your city, zip 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.
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 Behavioral 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.
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-behavioral exercises, or role-playing—to help participants develop concrete skills they can apply in daily life.
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-behavioral 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.
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 $50 and $75 each. In comparison, individual therapy can cost anywhere from $100 to $200 or more per session, even with insurance. Some therapists or organizations offer low-cost or free group therapy options, particularly through community centers or nonprofit 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?
As with individual therapy, insurance coverage for group therapy varies based on factors such as your specific insurance plan, the purpose of the group, your diagnosis, and whether the group provider is in-network. Many insurance plans cover group therapy sessions that address diagnosable mental health conditions, such as substance use disorders, anxiety, or depression.
However, groups that focus on topics not directly tied to a mental health diagnosis—such as parenting support or divorce recovery—are less likely to be covered. Because coverage can vary widely, it’s important to check with your insurance provider before joining a group to confirm whether the sessions will be covered and what out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for.
However, groups that focus on topics not directly tied to a mental health diagnosis—such as parenting support or divorce recovery—are less likely to be covered. Because coverage can vary widely, it’s important to check with your insurance provider before joining a group to confirm whether the sessions will be covered and what out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for.
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 Behavioral 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.
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 Behavioral 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 personalized and specialized 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.
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.