Support Groups in La Mesa, CA

This group explores male anger and patterns of behavior that contribute to the inappropriate expression of negative emotions. Group focus is on coping skills, conflict resolution and appropriate expression of emotions.
Photo of Terence L Shigg, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Terence L Shigg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
This group explores male anger and patterns of behavior that contribute to the inappropriate expression of negative emotions. Group focus is on coping skills, conflict resolution and appropriate expression of emotions.
(760) 490-0511 View (760) 490-0511
Being a teenager is today's society comes with pressures that many adults have a hard time understanding. Society is a different landscape for teens today compared with the generation that came before. Many teen girls suffer from increased struggles with self esteem, anxiety, and depression during this time. Some girls have already been experiencing them for years. This group will focus on easing these struggles by developing healthy coping skills and building a strong self identity through peer support.
Photo of Amber Michelle Monroe - Healing Balance Therapy Inc. , Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Healing Balance Therapy Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
Being a teenager is today's society comes with pressures that many adults have a hard time understanding. Society is a different landscape for teens today compared with the generation that came before. Many teen girls suffer from increased struggles with self esteem, anxiety, and depression during this time. Some girls have already been experiencing them for years. This group will focus on easing these struggles by developing healthy coping skills and building a strong self identity through peer support.
(619) 382-3154 View (619) 382-3154
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to reduce emotion dysregulation, impulsive behavior, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treat other mental health or behavioral issues. The goal of DBT is to help teens change ineffective behavior patterns by learning skills that will help them reach their goals. Our programs include four DBT skills groups a week that cover core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Teens learn a new DBT skill in each group. Our staff help teens practice these skills so that they know how to use them in their daily lives.
Photo of Evolve Growth - Evolve Mental Health Treatment Programs for Teens, Treatment Center
Hosted by Evolve Mental Health Treatment Programs for Teens
Treatment Center
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91941
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to reduce emotion dysregulation, impulsive behavior, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treat other mental health or behavioral issues. The goal of DBT is to help teens change ineffective behavior patterns by learning skills that will help them reach their goals. Our programs include four DBT skills groups a week that cover core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Teens learn a new DBT skill in each group. Our staff help teens practice these skills so that they know how to use them in their daily lives.
(877) 959-7282 View (877) 959-7282
We learn & practice with a dynamic tool kit of resources to move through life, fully embodied - supporting self-discovery, connection & healing. Through structured exercises, verbal guidance, open periods of dance/movement, & supportive music, I guide students through the phases of the Movement Cycle: Open Attention (arriving, warming up and preparing the body for movement); Enter (the body, a theme and the present moment); Explore (broadening, deepening, expanding and moving with Core Movement Resources); Settle (digest, integrate, helping re-map the nervous system & allowing new embodied pathways to be encoded). $15, drop-in.
Photo of Michelle Marie Kilcoyne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MPH, CMP
Hosted by Michelle Marie Kilcoyne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MPH, CMP
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91941
We learn & practice with a dynamic tool kit of resources to move through life, fully embodied - supporting self-discovery, connection & healing. Through structured exercises, verbal guidance, open periods of dance/movement, & supportive music, I guide students through the phases of the Movement Cycle: Open Attention (arriving, warming up and preparing the body for movement); Enter (the body, a theme and the present moment); Explore (broadening, deepening, expanding and moving with Core Movement Resources); Settle (digest, integrate, helping re-map the nervous system & allowing new embodied pathways to be encoded). $15, drop-in.
(805) 919-8671 View (805) 919-8671
We offer 52 Week Court Mandated Batterers Intervention (Domestic Violence Offender) groups: MEN (Level 1 & 2), WOMEN (Level 1 & 2). Classes are offered in English, Spanish & Arabic. We provide proof of enrollment documents for the courts, lawyers, and probation/parole officers as needed. For information call La Mesa Counseling at (619) 463-9742 (5 convenient locations): 8058 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942; 230 Glover Ave. #G, Chula Vista, CA 91910; 14168 Poway Road Suite 204, Poway, CA 92064; 485 Broadway, Suite D El Centro, CA 92243; 1175 E. Lincoln Ave., #104 Anaheim, CA
Photo of Karely Garcia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, DVC
Hosted by Karely Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, DVC
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
We offer 52 Week Court Mandated Batterers Intervention (Domestic Violence Offender) groups: MEN (Level 1 & 2), WOMEN (Level 1 & 2). Classes are offered in English, Spanish & Arabic. We provide proof of enrollment documents for the courts, lawyers, and probation/parole officers as needed. For information call La Mesa Counseling at (619) 463-9742 (5 convenient locations): 8058 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942; 230 Glover Ave. #G, Chula Vista, CA 91910; 14168 Poway Road Suite 204, Poway, CA 92064; 485 Broadway, Suite D El Centro, CA 92243; 1175 E. Lincoln Ave., #104 Anaheim, CA
(619) 409-2235 View (619) 409-2235
If you have been diagnosed with a degenerative vision issue, this group is for you. This was originally formed by members of the vision community that were grieving about the diagnosis they received that had to do with declining vision earlier than expected. It is an open process group and we tend to talk about subjects like: fear of losing all vision; the changes in marriages and family dynamics after a diagnosis like this; losing independence like driving or being able to walk comfortably in a low lighting situation.
Photo of Melissa Stevenson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Melissa Stevenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
If you have been diagnosed with a degenerative vision issue, this group is for you. This was originally formed by members of the vision community that were grieving about the diagnosis they received that had to do with declining vision earlier than expected. It is an open process group and we tend to talk about subjects like: fear of losing all vision; the changes in marriages and family dynamics after a diagnosis like this; losing independence like driving or being able to walk comfortably in a low lighting situation.
(619) 776-3761 View (619) 776-3761
Group of Marriage and Family Therapists available to take new clients both in person and telehealth and accepting 10 major insurance companies or cash/sliding scale.
Photo of Christina Diane Vlasis - Heart 2 Heart Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Heart 2 Heart Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
Group of Marriage and Family Therapists available to take new clients both in person and telehealth and accepting 10 major insurance companies or cash/sliding scale.
(619) 745-4244 View (619) 745-4244
ACT is an evidenced-based therapy for addiction focusing on embracing strong negative feelings rather than being desperate to make them disappear. This is important for long-term recovery because many relapse due to how terrible they "feel." I also teach relaxation techniques to give a break from anxiety, racing thoughts, and that feeling like you want to jump out of your skin. ACT brings truth and reality to the experience and helps learn skills of identifying and managing strong emotions in a healthy way.
Photo of Julie M Hayden, Psychologist, MRS, MACP, PsyD
Hosted by Julie M Hayden
Psychologist, MRS, MACP, PsyD
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
ACT is an evidenced-based therapy for addiction focusing on embracing strong negative feelings rather than being desperate to make them disappear. This is important for long-term recovery because many relapse due to how terrible they "feel." I also teach relaxation techniques to give a break from anxiety, racing thoughts, and that feeling like you want to jump out of your skin. ACT brings truth and reality to the experience and helps learn skills of identifying and managing strong emotions in a healthy way.
(844) 262-8310 View (844) 262-8310
We offer 52 Week Court Mandated Batterers Intervention (Domestic Violence Offender) groups: MEN (Level 1 & 2), WOMEN (Level 1 & 2). Classes are offered in English, Spanish & Arabic. We provide proof of enrollment documents for the courts, lawyers, and probation/parole officers as needed. For information call La Mesa Counseling at (619) 463-9742 (5 convenient locations): 8058 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942; 230 Glover Ave. #G, Chula Vista, CA 91910; 14168 Poway Road Suite 204, Poway, CA 92064; 485 Broadway, Suite D El Centro, CA 92243; 1175 E. Lincoln Ave., #104 Anaheim, CA
Photo of Denise R. Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Denise R. Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
We offer 52 Week Court Mandated Batterers Intervention (Domestic Violence Offender) groups: MEN (Level 1 & 2), WOMEN (Level 1 & 2). Classes are offered in English, Spanish & Arabic. We provide proof of enrollment documents for the courts, lawyers, and probation/parole officers as needed. For information call La Mesa Counseling at (619) 463-9742 (5 convenient locations): 8058 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942; 230 Glover Ave. #G, Chula Vista, CA 91910; 14168 Poway Road Suite 204, Poway, CA 92064; 485 Broadway, Suite D El Centro, CA 92243; 1175 E. Lincoln Ave., #104 Anaheim, CA
(619) 627-0954 View (619) 627-0954
Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions, repair injured relationships, develop a better understanding of themselves or a family member, decrease destructive behaviors, and move their healing forward. Our work is based on the belief that we are each influenced by a variety of factors including life experiences, family histories, and genetic predispositions. An increased understanding of ourselves and the things that influence our lives enable us to make more conscious healthier choices and changes.
Photo of Christiana Silva, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Christiana Silva
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions, repair injured relationships, develop a better understanding of themselves or a family member, decrease destructive behaviors, and move their healing forward. Our work is based on the belief that we are each influenced by a variety of factors including life experiences, family histories, and genetic predispositions. An increased understanding of ourselves and the things that influence our lives enable us to make more conscious healthier choices and changes.
(619) 916-4099 View (619) 916-4099
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to reduce emotion dysregulation, impulsive behavior, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treat other mental health or behavioral issues. The goal of DBT is to help teens change ineffective behavior patterns by learning skills that will help them reach their goals. Our programs include four DBT skills groups a week that cover core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Teens learn a new DBT skill in each group. Our staff help teens practice these skills so that they know how to use them in their daily lives.
Photo of Evolve Treatment - Evolve Residential Treatment Centers for Teens, Treatment Center
Hosted by Evolve Residential Treatment Centers for Teens
Treatment Center
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91941
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to reduce emotion dysregulation, impulsive behavior, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treat other mental health or behavioral issues. The goal of DBT is to help teens change ineffective behavior patterns by learning skills that will help them reach their goals. Our programs include four DBT skills groups a week that cover core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Teens learn a new DBT skill in each group. Our staff help teens practice these skills so that they know how to use them in their daily lives.
(866) 939-1762 View (866) 939-1762
Need Time to Breathe? Reduce your Anxiety & Stress? Stress Busters is designed to give you reflective skills regarding the issues of stress & anxiety. Don’t get pushed over the edge: Recognize the dangers of how stress triangulates us. Gain the tools that will help you adapt with healthy ways to balance the stress & de-stress. A 5 week group on how to better manage the stress & anxiety in your life. This group will introduce you to several alternatives in handling stress and anxiety through breathing, imagery, exercise, journaling techniques, etc so you can cope and gain control.
Photo of Karen A Mejia, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Karen A Mejia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
Need Time to Breathe? Reduce your Anxiety & Stress? Stress Busters is designed to give you reflective skills regarding the issues of stress & anxiety. Don’t get pushed over the edge: Recognize the dangers of how stress triangulates us. Gain the tools that will help you adapt with healthy ways to balance the stress & de-stress. A 5 week group on how to better manage the stress & anxiety in your life. This group will introduce you to several alternatives in handling stress and anxiety through breathing, imagery, exercise, journaling techniques, etc so you can cope and gain control.
(619) 853-4841 View (619) 853-4841
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to reduce emotion dysregulation, impulsive behavior, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treat other mental health or behavioral issues. The goal of DBT is to help teens change ineffective behavior patterns by learning skills that will help them reach their goals. Our programs include four DBT skills groups a week that cover core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Teens learn a new DBT skill in each group. Our staff help teens practice these skills so that they know how to use them in their daily lives.
Photo of Our Admissions Team - Evolve Teen Dual Diagnosis Residential Treatment, Treatment Center
Hosted by Evolve Teen Dual Diagnosis Residential Treatment
Treatment Center
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91941
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to reduce emotion dysregulation, impulsive behavior, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treat other mental health or behavioral issues. The goal of DBT is to help teens change ineffective behavior patterns by learning skills that will help them reach their goals. Our programs include four DBT skills groups a week that cover core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Teens learn a new DBT skill in each group. Our staff help teens practice these skills so that they know how to use them in their daily lives.
(858) 952-0048 View (858) 952-0048
My agency offers 52-week COURT MANDATED DOMESTIC VIOLENCE GROUPS Monday-Saturday. We provide MEN'S, WOMEN'S, LEVEL 1, & LEVEL 2 classes. We also offer classes in English, Spanish, & Arabic. We provide proof of enrollment & reports for courts, lawyers, and probation/parole officers. La Mesa Counseling: 8058 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942 LMC - Chula Vista: 230 Glover Ave. #G, Chula Vista, CA 91910 LMC - North County: 13609 Twin Peaks Rd, Poway, CA 92064 LMC - El Centro: 450 W. Main St. El Centro, CA 92243 LMC - Lakeside: 13176 Mapleview Ave. Lakeside, CA 92040
Photo of Tracy MacCreadie, Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
Hosted by Tracy MacCreadie
Registered Psychological Associate, PsyD
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
My agency offers 52-week COURT MANDATED DOMESTIC VIOLENCE GROUPS Monday-Saturday. We provide MEN'S, WOMEN'S, LEVEL 1, & LEVEL 2 classes. We also offer classes in English, Spanish, & Arabic. We provide proof of enrollment & reports for courts, lawyers, and probation/parole officers. La Mesa Counseling: 8058 La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa, CA 91942 LMC - Chula Vista: 230 Glover Ave. #G, Chula Vista, CA 91910 LMC - North County: 13609 Twin Peaks Rd, Poway, CA 92064 LMC - El Centro: 450 W. Main St. El Centro, CA 92243 LMC - Lakeside: 13176 Mapleview Ave. Lakeside, CA 92040
(619) 768-1429 View (619) 768-1429
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to reduce emotion dysregulation, impulsive behavior, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treat other mental health or behavioral issues. The goal of DBT is to help teens change ineffective behavior patterns by learning skills that will help them reach their goals. Our programs include four DBT skills groups a week that cover core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Teens learn a new DBT skill in each group. Our staff help teens practice these skills so that they know how to use them in their daily lives.
Photo of Evolve Llc - Evolve Teen Depression Residential Treatment, Treatment Center
Hosted by Evolve Teen Depression Residential Treatment
Treatment Center
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91941
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based approach designed to reduce emotion dysregulation, impulsive behavior, self-harm and suicidal ideation, and treat other mental health or behavioral issues. The goal of DBT is to help teens change ineffective behavior patterns by learning skills that will help them reach their goals. Our programs include four DBT skills groups a week that cover core mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation, and distress tolerance. Teens learn a new DBT skill in each group. Our staff help teens practice these skills so that they know how to use them in their daily lives.
(844) 319-5183 View (844) 319-5183
Group Teletherapy participation available : Additional groups available are Co-Dependent Recovery, High Conflict Parenting, DV- Offender and Victim, Study Group (Holding on when you want to let go - Changing to Hope when life is falling apart (Sheila Walsh)
Photo of Linda Murlene Ojeda, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTA, CAT, DV/VOC, SUD, EMDR
Hosted by Linda Murlene Ojeda
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTA, CAT, DV/VOC, SUD, EMDR
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
Group Teletherapy participation available : Additional groups available are Co-Dependent Recovery, High Conflict Parenting, DV- Offender and Victim, Study Group (Holding on when you want to let go - Changing to Hope when life is falling apart (Sheila Walsh)
(858) 240-8292 View (858) 240-8292
Dr. Hayden runs court-certified 52-week DVRP groups, anger management, and parenting classes.
Photo of Julie M Hayden, Psychologist, MRS, MACP, PsyD
Hosted by Julie M Hayden
Psychologist, MRS, MACP, PsyD
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
Dr. Hayden runs court-certified 52-week DVRP groups, anger management, and parenting classes.
(844) 262-8310 View (844) 262-8310
Welcome to Second Saturday: What Everyone Needs to Know About Divorce, the critically acclaimed workshop and community founded in 1989 by nationally renowned advocates/wealth managers Candace Bahr and Ginita Wall. Second Saturday offers non-biased financial, emotional and legal advice from qualified local professionals, providing people with the knowledge, support, resources and trust that they need to survive the divorce process and move forward with confidence toward a new life.
Photo of Debra Dupree, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Hosted by Debra Dupree
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
Welcome to Second Saturday: What Everyone Needs to Know About Divorce, the critically acclaimed workshop and community founded in 1989 by nationally renowned advocates/wealth managers Candace Bahr and Ginita Wall. Second Saturday offers non-biased financial, emotional and legal advice from qualified local professionals, providing people with the knowledge, support, resources and trust that they need to survive the divorce process and move forward with confidence toward a new life.
(619) 558-1419 View (619) 558-1419
Based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) offers an evidence-based approach designed to help individuals struggling with addiction and provides practical skills to help teens manage their thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Although SMART Recovery is an abstinence-oriented program, it allows flexible goal setting, whether that means reducing certain behaviors with a harm reduction approach or working towards complete sobriety. Unlike the 12-Step model, SMART Recovery offers a more achievable recovery path, giving teens the tools to make positive and sustainable changes in their lives without the pressure of a lifelong commitment.
Photo of Evolve Growth - Evolve Mental Health Treatment Programs for Teens, Treatment Center
Hosted by Evolve Mental Health Treatment Programs for Teens
Treatment Center
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91941
Based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), SMART Recovery (Self-Management and Recovery Training) offers an evidence-based approach designed to help individuals struggling with addiction and provides practical skills to help teens manage their thoughts, emotions and behaviors. Although SMART Recovery is an abstinence-oriented program, it allows flexible goal setting, whether that means reducing certain behaviors with a harm reduction approach or working towards complete sobriety. Unlike the 12-Step model, SMART Recovery offers a more achievable recovery path, giving teens the tools to make positive and sustainable changes in their lives without the pressure of a lifelong commitment.
(877) 959-7282 View (877) 959-7282
This group supports female adult members in looking at the emotional triggers to eating. We will work to remove the shame over failed diets and using food as coping mechanism for stress, anxiety and trauma. Over 70 years of research shows that diets do not work. As we begin to look honestly at our underlying needs, we start to put the eating puzzle together. Group size is no more than 8.
Photo of Amber Michelle Monroe - Healing Balance Therapy Inc. , Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Healing Balance Therapy Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in La Mesa, CA 91942
This group supports female adult members in looking at the emotional triggers to eating. We will work to remove the shame over failed diets and using food as coping mechanism for stress, anxiety and trauma. Over 70 years of research shows that diets do not work. As we begin to look honestly at our underlying needs, we start to put the eating puzzle together. Group size is no more than 8.
(619) 382-3154 View (619) 382-3154

See more therapy options for La Mesa

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in La Mesa?

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.

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.

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.

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 $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.

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.

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.