Support Groups in Castro Valley, CA
As the confusion, isolation and fear surrounding COVID-19 drags on, people everywhere are struggling to cope. This mindfulness-based, virtual support group is designed to help clients with the stress and difficulty of our current shared experience. Connecting with like-minded people in a safe group container, facilitated by a licensed professional, can be particularly helpful as we all deal with the issues caused by the global pandemic, including interpersonal, health and financial concerns. Starting with a mindfulness activity, then an opportunity to check in, participates begin the weekly group processing focused on compassion, 'kindfulness,' and mutual support.
Hosted by Kristin Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Castro Valley, CA 94546
You can heal your life with your own mind/body! In today's stressful world, symptoms of anxiety, depression and troubled relationships are common. As an LMFT, I have 20+ years experience working with families, couples and individuals; healing traumas, mending relationships, reducing depression, anxiety and addiction and supporting personal growth. Focusing on "kindfulness," we work to shine a light of insight, offering profound transformation. With compassion and empathy, I guide clients to a deep sense of well-being which provides relief from many troubling symptoms and creates solutions to today's common modern life problems.
Online structured HSP Skills Group, facilitated by HSP therapist to foster education, self-exploration & group sharing about the HSP trait. Living and working in a non-HSP world impacts sense of self, health, and relationships. HSPs are often default caretakers yet feel out of place in families, relationships & jobs. With filters wide open, many unknowingly endure until burn out. Join HSPs for safe, mutual support and skills-uilding. STARTS: June 2023; MEETS: 1x/week for 6 weeks ; FEE: $350 ($50 deposit holds space; balance due 1st week); RSVP: scomelo@sfccounseling.com; Max 6 ppl; CA residents.
Hosted by Suzanne Fischer Comelo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Castro Valley, CA 94546
Currently, ONLY Telehealth Openings. One of the amazing aspects of therapy is that it provides a unique opportunity for people to have a space where the focus is on their needs and growth. Very few other spaces exist where your needs and well-being can be the priority. This is a key part of the healing power of therapy, which is why I believe it is so important you find a therapist who is a good fit for you. (In-Network AETNA, OPTUM & CIGNA via Alma)
More Groups Nearby
This is a process group for adults ages 30 - 50, who wish to develop skills for forming more intimate and satisfying relationships.
Hosted by Raymond Scott Fortner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Pleasanton, CA 94566
I enjoy working with clients who are confronting challenges in their lives. I seek to help them develop deeper understandings of themselves so they can enjoy enhanced relationships with others and live the authentic and meaningful lives they envision for themselves.
An eight week skill building support group for women of color who feel like they carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. What can I get from this? A safe space to openly share aspects of your story and the impact on your mental health when being strong is too much. A chance to be heard, supported and understood. An opportunity to share and develop skills, strategies for personal growth and wellbeing.
Hosted by Akilah V. Vazquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94605
There are things that happen in life that we try to overcome on our own but realize it has become too much to handle alone. You may be experiencing work related stress, conflict in your relationships, shame, grief, anxiety, depression, or a trauma. As a Therapist I want to support you heal those parts of yourself that hold you back. My goal is to support you in navigating, refining or developing skills to improve and enhance your life. I want to help restore, renew and heal yourself, relationships, life or work. Psychotherapy can be a difficult process; It is important to feel comfortable and safe as you go on this journey.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills training is a weekly group, run like a class, which teaches adolescents skills across four main topics: mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance skills. Clients are required to complete homework assignments in which they practice the skills taught during the weekly lesson. It is taught by DBT certified and nationally recognized clinical psychologist Dr. Christine Dickson This 1-hour weekly course meets online for 20 weeks.
Hosted by Dr. Christine E. Dickson: Board Certified Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, MS, MA, LP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Pleasanton, CA 94566
Unlike traditional therapy that focuses on the past, we focus on the present and take action to change unproductive thought patterns, manage your emotions, and modify unhealthy habits. With over 25 years experience as a mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapist, I help you take control of your mind rather than let your mind take control of you. Learning to find the off button in your mind and no longer reacting to every thought and feeling is priceless. Nearly 33,000 people worldwide follow my blog to learn my approach. Visit christinedickson.com to learn more.
(POSTPONED) IN THIS COUPLES WORKSHOP WE WILL: Discuss attachment, bonding and how these two affect your current relationship Review the common negative cycles that most couples get stuck in Learn how trauma and our history can get in the way of our relationships and how to get unstuck Watch video clips of Dr. Sue Johnson, the founder of Emotionally Focused Therapy, as she works with couples to help them get unstuck Practice safe ways to communicate with your partner in private, intimate conversations as outlined in the book, Hold Me Tight® Aid in connection with your partner through healing past wounds
Hosted by Life by Design Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Berkeley, CA 94704
When life gets rough, it's important to know there are safe and supportive spaces you can turn to for support. Whether you're seeking real relief from anxiety or depression, needing help establishing better boundaries, questioning your identity, sexuality, or personal relationships or just having trouble managing the day-to-day, we can help. At Life by Design Therapy we believe change is possible for you. We offer holistic and somatic therapy to support you in navigating life's challenges without having to dismiss, avoid, or disconnect from what you truly want. It's time to live life on your own terms and Create A Life You Love!
Gain awareness of how attachment styles, internal working models and defensive patterns close off one's energy and experiences. Explore the effects of somatic holding patterns. The group will use strengths & capacities that group members already have to explore living from less conditioned/conditional stances. Multi-dimentional approach using mindfulness, self-inquiry, art/music/movement modalities. Goals are the development of the ability to be with experience rather than rejecting it, increasing physical embodiment and somatic awareness, and self-contact as a basis for contact with others. The cultivation of joy, play and creativity will be encouraged throughout the group.
Hosted by Trisha Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94602
Your being on this site reflects your hope that at a time of vulnerability your can find someone who will assist and accompany you through your pain. I believe that everyone, no matter if they are dealing with depression, anxiety, or have been through intense abuse and/or neglect have within them a deeper part of themselves that is untouched and whole. Together we alleviate shame, fear and aloneness so that you can go beyond your defenses, explore your inner life and have new experiences that allow for your ability to tap into your healing and adaptive aspects of yourself.
Has your high schooler become increasingly socially anxious or avoidant? Do they express intense fears of being judged or feel awkward in social situations or become overwhelmed at school? Request Starbucks but refuse to go in to place an order? Spend more time socializing online and less IRL? Ever ask yourself how your kid is going to survive as an adult if they avoid socializing?! Whether this has been a recent or lifelong struggle, consider enrolling your teen in this 16-week evidence-based Social Anxiety Group incorporating both process and skill-building interventions within an encouraging group format.
Hosted by Heather Caruso-Maxey
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Pleasanton, CA 94566
Hello! I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who's worked professionally for 8 yrs in addition to my prior 6 yrs of clinical training in various community outpatient, managed care, and hospital settings. While I have extensive experience across the age span, my current focus is adolescent, young adult, and adult therapy. My clinical specialties include trauma, adjustment/transitional challenges, and healthy identity development. Experiencing incongruence between one's expectations and reality at a critical time in one's life can lead to a cascade of mental health symptoms, impairing one's ability to respond adaptively and thrive.
In this group we give an open space for teen girls to learn and discuss their issues while providing psychoeducation to build self esteem and healthy relationships.
Hosted by Kale Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94611
I am Kalé Woods, LMFT (85539) a California licensed psychotherapist who specializes in helping clients work through past trauma’s, understanding family history, and finding solution-oriented ways to break barriers to progress. We go through this process as a team. I help guide my client’s through the process while they do the work necessary to make long term change. We will begin our process by setting goals and developing a trusting relationship. Through this relationship it is my belief that together we can accomplish the progress that you wish in therapy. I am an integrative therapist and don’t believe that one solution works for
Girls Group is for 7th and 8th grade girls who want to build supportive friendships and feel more confident in themselves. Group runs from March 6th through April 24th. The cost is $500 for 8 sessions.
Hosted by Andrea Weicker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94618
Therapy should be focused on you and your needs. Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure about what to do about your teen's anxiety? Do you worry a lot, often leaving you anxious, exhausted and overwhelmed? Has parenting become a constant battle, leaving you feeling drained and exhausted? I can help. I have extensive experience working with teens and parents who have experienced trauma, who have suicidal thoughts, self-harming behaviors, school refusal, anxiety, OCD, social withdraw, bullying, low self-esteem, and depression. I specialize in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Exposure Response Prevention (ERP).
Join our 8-week Brainspotting Group to heal from trauma and reduce symptoms like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, avoidance, nightmares, and flashbacks. Using Brainspotting, a somatic therapy that targets where trauma is stored in the brain, you’ll process deep emotional pain that talk therapy often can’t reach. Each session blends psychoeducation, group discussions, and Brainspotting exercises to help alleviate trauma symptoms and activate the brain’s natural healing abilities. Connect with others on a similar journey, share experiences, and work through challenges in a safe, supportive environment. Experience the transformative power of trauma healing and recovery.
Hosted by Elizabeth Huck
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, DBT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94609
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
A twice monthly therapeutic group combining education on trauma, somatic coping skills (mindfulness, yoga, movement) and expressive arts activities where attendees will: 1) learn the basic science of trauma and the nervous system 2) practice somatic coping skills for emotional regulation and managing trauma responses. 3) use art and journaling as an integration tool 4) connect with a community of people who understand the unique struggles of bisexual/pansexual+ folks. Next round begins February 12th!
Hosted by Josephine Kelly
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Berkeley, CA 94705
Are you tired of hiding who you truly are? Having trouble finding a sense of belonging in this chaotic world? Do you want to live an authentic and empowered life but you’re not sure how? It's never too late to make big changes. I deeply believe in your ability to transform. Maybe you want to explore your gender identity or sexuality in a compassionate space or hope to rewrite the narratives that hold you back. Perhaps you want to build a kinder relationship with your body so you can connect more with what brings you joy. I’m honored to support my clients as they heal and find their power.
This is an interpersonal psychotherapy process group available to all who identify as men, including trans men. / Men can struggle with many parts of life: emotionally, in relationships, at the workplace, socially. The struggle is all the more difficult when they don't have enough support and connection with others. / By engaging in real, honest and open relationship with one another, it's possible for men to both receive and give support that can create profound change for themselves in many parts of life.
Hosted by David Thanos Heliotis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Berkeley, CA 94703
I believe great therapy is all about us finding a strong connection together. As your therapist, it’s my goal to co-create an environment where we can be direct and real with one another, and where we can use concrete tools—like mindfulness and body awareness—to talk about what’s happening between us. Like two musicians playing a duet, therapy works best when we’re deeply in sync. I’m really responding to you, and you’re going to feel that.
If someone else's behaviors are driving you crazy, and others don't seem to understand and you're not getting the compassion you need, then this is a group for you. Often individuals who are close to someone with addictive behaviors, find it is effecting them more than the one with the disease. You learn that you didn't cause it, you can't control or cure it-where does that leave you? I invite you to regain your peace of mind, with support of others like yourself, guided by a professional. This is a psycho-educational group
Hosted by Jann Scott
Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94610
Are you like so many, not finding the joy in your life that you deserve? Perhaps your inner voice is telling you lies about yourself which you believe. Could worry and sadness be occupying more space than you want to give, yet you don’t know how to stop it? You might also be self medicating with unhealthy habits, which only worked for a short time. If you’re ready to learn what is preventing you from having the kind of life you deserve, and want to cultivate skills that stands to bring you well being, please give me a call. Since you're reading this, it shows me you have the motivation and desire to make positive changes.
A welcoming, supportive group setting where participants work together to support one another in working towards their goals.
Hosted by Darrah Whitman Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Albany, CA 94706
I provide individual, couples, and group therapy to a wide array of individuals with varying issues they are seeking support around. I support clients in developing self-awareness, increasing self-esteem, and managing anxiety in their lives. My clients often report goals of increased feelings of life satisfaction, more fulfilling relationships, and confidence in themselves. My clients are looking to feel self-assured in their decisions and direction in life. I offer a secure, supportive environment where my client's whole selves, as well as their goals are accepted without judgement, but with curiosity and compassion.
Hosted by Brittaney Latta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94603
This group is available to CA Bay Area residents.
Hosted by Marisa Musso
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CRC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94610
Embracing identity and relationship transitions is my specialty. I work with Bisexual, Pansexual or Fluid sexual attractions. As well as Trans/GNC, Open Relationships, Polyamory, CNM and Disability, including Deaf/HH. If there's a part of your identity that's expanding/changing, and you want to incorporate it more into your everyday life, that uncharted territory can feel scary. Instead of "coming out", I'll show you how to "invite people in". You might be seeking more human connection or community; we're going to tap into how you can achieve that. I offer Therapy (to CA residents) or Coaching (worldwide) depending on your needs.
Calling all Single Women! It's Your Time. Are your ready to embark on a life changing journey towards attracting a healthy, emotionally available mate? Are you tired of being in a dysfunctional or toxic relationships? Do you repeatedly find yourself giving into your relation far more than you receive? Have you found yourself in a repeated pattern of relationships that don't go anywhere? If so, this is the group for you. In this group you learn how to embrace and love self while also looking at blocks and trauma wounds that keeps you from attracting true lasting love.
Hosted by Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94610
Dr. Vernita Marsh & Associates is a holistic and psychotherapy practice. You will find our practice to be a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our staff is well trained and effective proven strategies. We incorporate a multi ethnic as well as mind, body, and spiritual perspectives in addressing your concerns. We are committed to supporting you to recognize your dreams and living your life to the fullest. If you're feeling stuck or trapped in any way, we have expertise in assessing and helping you to identify what's contributing to you being stuck and offering coping strategies to help you becoming free.
Process group that values each group member and strives to allow individuals to share their thoughts and feelings about important life issues that are common to women. Feedback from the facilitator and group members welcome.
Hosted by Jennifer Sharples
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Pleasanton, CA 94566
I am an eclectic psychologist who utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy along with analytical psychology and Family Systems therapy to treat a wide range of problems. I work with adults, adolescents, and couples to help you resolve your issues and become able to live up to your true potential. I have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and also have studied some Analytical Psychology by taking courses at the C.G. Jung Institute in San Francisco. I have over 20 years in the field of psychotherapy and have helped people deal with depression, anxiety, career issues, relationship problems and existential issues.
My online process group is a weekly therapy group for young professionals looking to talk about the things that are typically hard to talk about in daily life. Like, hurt feelings, competition or loneliness after work. My group is a space to slow down, be authentic, feel a sense of belonging, learn from others, track your progress and get relational feedback that supports your growth. Once people get more comfortable sharing their own experiences, hearing from others with similar issues and giving and receiving feedback, they often take this new confidence and relational skill set out in to their life.
Hosted by Rae Walker Mountz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94609
My highest aim as your therapist is to co-create a lasting and genuine healing relationship, one where you feel supported to express yourself authentically and make the changes necessary in your life to live, love and work wholeheartedly. Together we will explore the issues, concerns and challenges that are coming up for you and how they are getting in the way of you living the life you want.
See more therapy options for Castro Valley
Nearby Searches for Castro Valley
- Alameda
- Alamo
- Danville
- Emeryville
- Fremont
- Lafayette
- Oakland
- Orinda
- Pleasanton
- San Leandro
- San Ramon
- Walnut Creek
FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in Castro Valley?
Search for nearby support groups by inputting your city, zip code, or the name of the group into the search bar. From there, you can filter to find a group that suits your needs, whether you are looking for support for a teenager, a group that focuses on a specific issue, such as depression, or a particular program type, such as one geared toward developing social skills. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
How does group therapy work?
Therapy groups are led by one or more therapists and serve to help people process their experiences and learn from others who understand their challenges firsthand. They can be based on a specific issue, such as addiction, grief, physical illnesses, parenting, and caregiving. They can involve a specific type of program or therapy, such as a social skills group or CBT group. They can also be specific to a particular population or community, such as teens or LGBTQ.
Support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous, also focus on a specific issue, but are typically led by members with lived experiences and are less structured than therapy groups. Most therapy groups will meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.
Support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous, also focus on a specific issue, but are typically led by members with lived experiences and are less structured than therapy groups. Most therapy groups will meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.
What are the benefits of group therapy?
Support groups help connect people with shared challenges or physical and mental health conditions. In a group setting, participants can receive support and feedback from peers and can acquire new skills, strategies and perspectives by listening to one another. Discussing your experience with someone who also has a cancer diagnosis, or whose son also struggles with addiction, for example, can help you feel less alone, reduce distress, find empathy and connection, and learn practical or medical information that has helped others. Group therapy can also be a more affordable option than individual therapy and just as effective.
Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy?
Support groups can be deeply valuable for both emotional support and/or treatment outcomes. It’s difficult to make a blanket statement on efficacy due to the many different types of support groups and conditions treated, but group therapy has been found to be just as effective as individual therapy in establishing long-term abstinence for conditions such as substance abuse, addiction and alcohol abuse.
How much does group therapy cost?
Group counseling is typically less expensive than individual counseling, with each session costing on average between $60 to $75. Meanwhile, individual therapy sessions can run anywhere from $100 to $200 and up, even after insurance. It is possible to find low-cost group therapy options and many therapists offer group sessions free of charge.
Does insurance cover group therapy?
As with individual therapy, many insurance companies do offer coverage for group therapy sessions. However, the coverage varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider. Individuals are encouraged to check with their insurance providers to verify coverage.
How long does group therapy last?
The length of a support group session is often one hour but can fall anywhere between 45 minutes and two hours. The amount of time that people remain in a support group varies based on their specific needs and goals and the type of therapy. Some individuals may seek a shorter-term group, such as a bereavement group, that may last between six and 20 weeks. Some may seek a longer-term group that lasts for a year or indefinitely.
What are the limitations of support groups?
Support groups have many benefits, but there are a few limitations as well. Support groups do not constitute formal therapeutic or medical treatment, and are not run by licensed mental health professionals, so some people may opt for group therapy or individual therapy instead. Additionally, support groups can depend on the other participants, so a disruptive individual has the potential to mar the group dynamic, and the anecdotal information shared may sometimes be unhelpful or inaccurate. Because it is a group setting, confidentiality can be more difficult to guard and participants receive less personalized attention than they would in an individual therapy session.