Support Groups in Mission Viejo, CA
Once a month OCAC hosts a free informational group to help people of all ages and issues related to anxiety have their questions answers by a doctoral level psychologist. Please RSVP at info@ocanxietycenter.com

Once a month OCAC hosts a free informational group to help people of all ages and issues related to anxiety have their questions answers by a doctoral level psychologist. Please RSVP at info@ocanxietycenter.com
At Seahorse Psychology, we are committed to guiding individuals through the turbulent waves of mental health disorders towards tranquil waters. With the ocean's boundless strength and adaptability as our inspiration, we strive to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person's journey. Our mission is to empower our clients to discover their inner resilience and navigate their unique paths to well-being.

At Seahorse Psychology, we are committed to guiding individuals through the turbulent waves of mental health disorders towards tranquil waters. With the ocean's boundless strength and adaptability as our inspiration, we strive to provide compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each person's journey. Our mission is to empower our clients to discover their inner resilience and navigate their unique paths to well-being.
Experience the transformative potential of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) through our group sessions, available online and at our Orange County office. Address mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. Why Choose Our KAP Group Sessions? Accessibility: Join from home via our secure online platform or attend in person at our Orange County office. - Supportive Community: Connect with individuals on similar healing journeys. What to Expect Our program includes an initial consultation to assess suitability, followed by a series of KAP sessions designed to facilitate deep personal insights and emotional healing.

Experience the transformative potential of Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) through our group sessions, available online and at our Orange County office. Address mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and chronic pain. Why Choose Our KAP Group Sessions? Accessibility: Join from home via our secure online platform or attend in person at our Orange County office. - Supportive Community: Connect with individuals on similar healing journeys. What to Expect Our program includes an initial consultation to assess suitability, followed by a series of KAP sessions designed to facilitate deep personal insights and emotional healing.
The last two years have changed our lives substantially. No matter how positive we are, the best of us are being challenged to our greatest capacity. Join a community of supportive individuals while being coached by a professional as to the best ways to continue to thrive in a difficult and rapidly shifting world. This group will include meditations, group discussions, as well as, goal setting and organization to keep your mind on and plan for better days. I hope you'll join this great community!

Hosted by Anita T Vaccaro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Mission Viejo, CA 92692
The last two years have changed our lives substantially. No matter how positive we are, the best of us are being challenged to our greatest capacity. Join a community of supportive individuals while being coached by a professional as to the best ways to continue to thrive in a difficult and rapidly shifting world. This group will include meditations, group discussions, as well as, goal setting and organization to keep your mind on and plan for better days. I hope you'll join this great community!
I enjoy supervising and mentoring mental health professionals of the next generation as well as those clinicians who seek consultation for their professional development. I offer in-person and virtual supervision for psychotherapists and psychiatrists.

Hosted by Parastoo Erdogan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Group meets in Mission Viejo, CA 92691
I enjoy supervising and mentoring mental health professionals of the next generation as well as those clinicians who seek consultation for their professional development. I offer in-person and virtual supervision for psychotherapists and psychiatrists.
The Boundaries Lab Process Group is a group dedicated to
Improving Relationships through Learning about and practicing healthy boundaries. It is designed to be an
Emotionally Safe, Supportive Small Group Format.
We will be meeting weekly. This is an ongoing group. This group can
compliment concurrent individual psychotherapy or be
used as primary work.
For Further Information, Call or Click
949-370-1777 or paulgillane.com

The Boundaries Lab Process Group is a group dedicated to
Improving Relationships through Learning about and practicing healthy boundaries. It is designed to be an
Emotionally Safe, Supportive Small Group Format.
We will be meeting weekly. This is an ongoing group. This group can
compliment concurrent individual psychotherapy or be
used as primary work.
For Further Information, Call or Click
949-370-1777 or paulgillane.com
In a confidential & safe environment, we will take power back from past memories and learn new ways to cope and heal. This group aims to support individuals who have experienced trauma in their pasts. Discussion topics include abuse, boundaries, healing, trauma, narcissism, codependency, relationships, family, health, emotional/behavioral patterns, past and present life experiences, anxiety, depression, coping skills, support, and more. Group is warm and supportive, and members work hard to make desired changes in their lives. Be in a safe, supportive, sacred, and empowering space. Pre-screening is required. Check out the website for more information.

Hosted by EMDR Somatic Healing Jessie Song LCSW California
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, EMDR, Guide, Coach
Group meets in Mission Viejo, CA 92691
In a confidential & safe environment, we will take power back from past memories and learn new ways to cope and heal. This group aims to support individuals who have experienced trauma in their pasts. Discussion topics include abuse, boundaries, healing, trauma, narcissism, codependency, relationships, family, health, emotional/behavioral patterns, past and present life experiences, anxiety, depression, coping skills, support, and more. Group is warm and supportive, and members work hard to make desired changes in their lives. Be in a safe, supportive, sacred, and empowering space. Pre-screening is required. Check out the website for more information.
A 10 week research-based supportive group for women suffering from depression. This group introduces brain wellness excercises, nutrition counseling, and assignments on thinking patterns and family systems to decrease depressive symptoms.

A 10 week research-based supportive group for women suffering from depression. This group introduces brain wellness excercises, nutrition counseling, and assignments on thinking patterns and family systems to decrease depressive symptoms.
Adult addiction day treatment session

Hosted by Twin Town Treatment Centers - Laguna Hills
Treatment Center
Group meets in Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Adult addiction day treatment session
We feel alone in our struggles and we are not. Group therapy via telehealth is a supportive environment that allows us to connect with others who can relate to our struggles. This is a support group that creates safety, where one can begin to heal by opening up about anxiety, depression, and grief and receive acceptance, kindness and compassion.

We feel alone in our struggles and we are not. Group therapy via telehealth is a supportive environment that allows us to connect with others who can relate to our struggles. This is a support group that creates safety, where one can begin to heal by opening up about anxiety, depression, and grief and receive acceptance, kindness and compassion.
Setting Boundaries With an Addict in My Family is a 5 week workshop group for family members that have either an active addict/alcoholic family member or a family member who is in early recovery. Groups are ongoing. Call or email for more details or to register. This group is a hybrid of education and process aimed at helping the non addicted family members learn to manage the high anxiety and stress that usually accompanies addiction. Simultaneously helping addicted family member. Call Paul 949-370-1777, paulgillane.com Saturdays at our Mission Viejo office 8:30 to 10:30 am

Setting Boundaries With an Addict in My Family is a 5 week workshop group for family members that have either an active addict/alcoholic family member or a family member who is in early recovery. Groups are ongoing. Call or email for more details or to register. This group is a hybrid of education and process aimed at helping the non addicted family members learn to manage the high anxiety and stress that usually accompanies addiction. Simultaneously helping addicted family member. Call Paul 949-370-1777, paulgillane.com Saturdays at our Mission Viejo office 8:30 to 10:30 am
Starting a small group for mature people to grow and thrive addressing mental health and positive spiritual change forward.

Hosted by Karen Rippy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, , LMFT
Group meets in Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Starting a small group for mature people to grow and thrive addressing mental health and positive spiritual change forward.
Women's group for codependency, anger, and relationship issues. Tools to grow individually and be empowered to change your life in a supportive group environment.

Women's group for codependency, anger, and relationship issues. Tools to grow individually and be empowered to change your life in a supportive group environment.
Overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or struggling to find balance in your life? This group is designed specifically for women in their 20s and 30s navigating the unique challenges of this stage of life. Together, we will create a safe, compassionate space to share experiences, build emotional resilience, and foster personal growth. Through guided discussions, practical coping strategies, and peer support, you'll gain insights to manage stress, regulate emotions, and cultivate self-compassion. Whether you're facing isolation, burnout, or seeking a supportive community, this group is here to remind you: you’re not alone. Weekly sessions | In-person | Limited spots available.

Hosted by Katie Valenti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Group meets in Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or struggling to find balance in your life? This group is designed specifically for women in their 20s and 30s navigating the unique challenges of this stage of life. Together, we will create a safe, compassionate space to share experiences, build emotional resilience, and foster personal growth. Through guided discussions, practical coping strategies, and peer support, you'll gain insights to manage stress, regulate emotions, and cultivate self-compassion. Whether you're facing isolation, burnout, or seeking a supportive community, this group is here to remind you: you’re not alone. Weekly sessions | In-person | Limited spots available.
This 8 week group is a safe place for you to find hope and discover that you are not alone as you heal from the wounds of childhood sexual abuse or adult sexual assault. As a survivor of sexual abuse myself, I draw hope and passion from my own healing journey. Together we will use art therapy as a language for you to get in touch with your inner feelings and struggles. Please know that you are not alone, and that healing is possible. We will help you move from victim, to survivor, to thriver. All Materials Supplied.

This 8 week group is a safe place for you to find hope and discover that you are not alone as you heal from the wounds of childhood sexual abuse or adult sexual assault. As a survivor of sexual abuse myself, I draw hope and passion from my own healing journey. Together we will use art therapy as a language for you to get in touch with your inner feelings and struggles. Please know that you are not alone, and that healing is possible. We will help you move from victim, to survivor, to thriver. All Materials Supplied.
Couples group counseling for sexual addiction, where husband is the sex addict. Learn tools to communicate, build intimacy, and overcome anger from issues related to sexual addiction.

Couples group counseling for sexual addiction, where husband is the sex addict. Learn tools to communicate, build intimacy, and overcome anger from issues related to sexual addiction.
Adult substance use disorder evening group

Hosted by Twin Town Treatment Centers - Laguna Hills
Treatment Center
Group meets in Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Adult substance use disorder evening group
In this 8 week group you will gain tools and learn assertive skills that will help to reduce the anxiety within you and cause you to find your authentic voice. We use art materials to help us explore, process and express our thoughts and feelings, in a positive, affirming and encouraging group environment. This is the group that helps set you free- to be the you- you know you were meant to be. This group has an 8 week commitment. Meets every other week for 4 months. All Materials Supplied. No art experience needed.

In this 8 week group you will gain tools and learn assertive skills that will help to reduce the anxiety within you and cause you to find your authentic voice. We use art materials to help us explore, process and express our thoughts and feelings, in a positive, affirming and encouraging group environment. This is the group that helps set you free- to be the you- you know you were meant to be. This group has an 8 week commitment. Meets every other week for 4 months. All Materials Supplied. No art experience needed.
Addiction is a family disease and affects every single person in the family. This is a dynamic and powerful workshop helping families learn, respond and begin to heal from the impact of addiction. And in doing so, aid their addicted family member's journey toward wellness. The Intensive offers an opportunity for families to come up to speed quickly by learning how they fit into the addiction, treatment and recovery journey. They will also examine how families are affected by addiction and the post treatment environment and, more importantly, how to get well. Call 949-370-1777 for details

Addiction is a family disease and affects every single person in the family. This is a dynamic and powerful workshop helping families learn, respond and begin to heal from the impact of addiction. And in doing so, aid their addicted family member's journey toward wellness. The Intensive offers an opportunity for families to come up to speed quickly by learning how they fit into the addiction, treatment and recovery journey. They will also examine how families are affected by addiction and the post treatment environment and, more importantly, how to get well. Call 949-370-1777 for details
Adolescent addiction recovery group

Hosted by Twin Town Treatment Centers - Laguna Hills
Treatment Center
Group meets in Mission Viejo, CA 92691
Adolescent addiction recovery group
See more therapy options for Mission Viejo
FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in Mission Viejo?
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.