Support Groups in Oakland, CA
Society continues to approach & respond to womxn as if we're the caretakers of the world, including in the workplace. And whew, this can feel overwhelming! Black womxn tend to struggle with psychological burdens that result from feeling different from others and undervalued due to race and gender, while also grappling with emotional labor that many womxn face in their lives. This group is intended to provide a sense of belonging, support, and lastly, offer therapeutic tools. 6-Week Group begins 6/2! Helping Black womxn to feel empowered in work, relationships, and life! Early Bird Special $299 ends 5/16! $330 full rate package.

Society continues to approach & respond to womxn as if we're the caretakers of the world, including in the workplace. And whew, this can feel overwhelming! Black womxn tend to struggle with psychological burdens that result from feeling different from others and undervalued due to race and gender, while also grappling with emotional labor that many womxn face in their lives. This group is intended to provide a sense of belonging, support, and lastly, offer therapeutic tools. 6-Week Group begins 6/2! Helping Black womxn to feel empowered in work, relationships, and life! Early Bird Special $299 ends 5/16! $330 full rate package.
Non-profit community mental health center offering sliding scale talk therapy and Ketamine Assisted Therapy.

Non-profit community mental health center offering sliding scale talk therapy and Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
Please see website for detailed info: http://www.oaklanddbtcenter.com

Hosted by Oakland DBT and Mindfulness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94611
Please see website for detailed info: http://www.oaklanddbtcenter.com
Introducing a teletherapy process/support group to assist adolescents struggling to cope with their current environment due to the recent global pandemic.

Hosted by Bridge Psych Services - Dr. Aisling Forbes
Psychological Associate, PhD
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94607
Introducing a teletherapy process/support group to assist adolescents struggling to cope with their current environment due to the recent global pandemic.
This group is designed specifically for people who are in recovery from drug or alcohol use issues.

This group is designed specifically for people who are in recovery from drug or alcohol use issues.
Join a community of Black women coming together to heal, grow, and thrive. Led by two experienced Black women therapists who understand the unique challenges faced by Black women, this group focuses on shared experiences, cultural identity, and empowerment. Through guided discussions, mindfulness exercises, and creative activities, we will explore topics such as self-care, boundary setting, relationships, and navigating systemic stressors. Whether you're seeking emotional support, tools for growth, or simply a space to connect with like-minded women, Get it Off Your Chest is here to remind you: you’re not alone, and your voice matters.

Join a community of Black women coming together to heal, grow, and thrive. Led by two experienced Black women therapists who understand the unique challenges faced by Black women, this group focuses on shared experiences, cultural identity, and empowerment. Through guided discussions, mindfulness exercises, and creative activities, we will explore topics such as self-care, boundary setting, relationships, and navigating systemic stressors. Whether you're seeking emotional support, tools for growth, or simply a space to connect with like-minded women, Get it Off Your Chest is here to remind you: you’re not alone, and your voice matters.
Start the new year with mornings of guided creativity and connection. This online group introduces participants to expressive arts therapy. This 4-week process is designed to: Invite centered relaxation, process emotions, connect deeply to self and others, explore creative self inquiry tools that can be used long after the group is over. We promote health, well being and permission to come as you are. The Expressive Arts is the therapeutic use of writing, drawing, storytelling and movement. Focus is on process, not on product. No artistic experience or inclination is necessary. We will begin January 3, 2020.

Hosted by Yoshiko Hedges Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Oakland, CA 94602
Start the new year with mornings of guided creativity and connection. This online group introduces participants to expressive arts therapy. This 4-week process is designed to: Invite centered relaxation, process emotions, connect deeply to self and others, explore creative self inquiry tools that can be used long after the group is over. We promote health, well being and permission to come as you are. The Expressive Arts is the therapeutic use of writing, drawing, storytelling and movement. Focus is on process, not on product. No artistic experience or inclination is necessary. We will begin January 3, 2020.
This group is for family members and (ex) partners of people on the spectrum of narcissistic personality style and meets via Telehealth. Reconnect to a secure sense of self, outside the Narcissistic System. Feel the power of connection as you are witnessed and bear witness with an open heart within the group setting. In group you will learn tools to heal, grow, and maintain healthy boundaries while learning to trust yourself to know your own experience. This Process Group will meet on going. Format will be: 110min telehealth sessions,with a 10min break.

This group is for family members and (ex) partners of people on the spectrum of narcissistic personality style and meets via Telehealth. Reconnect to a secure sense of self, outside the Narcissistic System. Feel the power of connection as you are witnessed and bear witness with an open heart within the group setting. In group you will learn tools to heal, grow, and maintain healthy boundaries while learning to trust yourself to know your own experience. This Process Group will meet on going. Format will be: 110min telehealth sessions,with a 10min break.
The group setting offers a different experience of Ketamine Assisted Therapy. In a cohort of peers seeking to move through similar struggles you can find support, understand you are not struggling alone all within an environment of safety. Group Therapy also offers a more cost effective option for working with Ketamine while receiving the same benefits.

The group setting offers a different experience of Ketamine Assisted Therapy. In a cohort of peers seeking to move through similar struggles you can find support, understand you are not struggling alone all within an environment of safety. Group Therapy also offers a more cost effective option for working with Ketamine while receiving the same benefits.
This facilitated weekly group will utilize a combination of psychoeducation, group process/discussion and experiential activities (mindfulness, trauma-release, expressive arts,etc) to explore our diverse experience as men of color. Part of our work as self-identified men of color is to unlearn and heal from the violence of systemic oppression, especially the toxic masculinity perpetuated by patriarchy. 'Toxic masculinity' is an inherently narrow and restrictive band of behavior, belief and appearance that often perpetuates harm to all genders. We will explore and re-define our relationship to healthy masculinity. Participants will need to have an initial interview for acceptance into this group.

This facilitated weekly group will utilize a combination of psychoeducation, group process/discussion and experiential activities (mindfulness, trauma-release, expressive arts,etc) to explore our diverse experience as men of color. Part of our work as self-identified men of color is to unlearn and heal from the violence of systemic oppression, especially the toxic masculinity perpetuated by patriarchy. 'Toxic masculinity' is an inherently narrow and restrictive band of behavior, belief and appearance that often perpetuates harm to all genders. We will explore and re-define our relationship to healthy masculinity. Participants will need to have an initial interview for acceptance into this group.
BIPOC Adult Open Studio Art Therapy Group is an opportunity to fellowship, nurture mindfulness, and explore self through creative expression in art practice. This group provides a welcoming and supportive environment where individuals from Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities can explore personal creative expression and establish an accessible wellness routine. Art-making can serve as a powerful tool for processing, navigating life transitions, and fostering resilience. You can expect creative exploration, cultural affirmation, and community connection. This group is for adults of all genders ages 21+.

BIPOC Adult Open Studio Art Therapy Group is an opportunity to fellowship, nurture mindfulness, and explore self through creative expression in art practice. This group provides a welcoming and supportive environment where individuals from Black, Indigenous, and People of Color communities can explore personal creative expression and establish an accessible wellness routine. Art-making can serve as a powerful tool for processing, navigating life transitions, and fostering resilience. You can expect creative exploration, cultural affirmation, and community connection. This group is for adults of all genders ages 21+.
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.

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.
We will discuss sorting out your different sources of stress and identifying and prioritizing specific actions that are in your power to take to address them.
We will discuss sorting out your different sources of stress and identifying and prioritizing specific actions that are in your power to take to address them.
This group meets weekly. It is an intimate group with a six person maximum. Clients explore issues related to managing emotions, strengthening self esteem, and deepening interpersonal relationships. The group offers a combination of psycho-education, support, and interpersonal process. Members feel greatly supported in the group and recognize positive change in their lives as a result of the group process.

This group meets weekly. It is an intimate group with a six person maximum. Clients explore issues related to managing emotions, strengthening self esteem, and deepening interpersonal relationships. The group offers a combination of psycho-education, support, and interpersonal process. Members feel greatly supported in the group and recognize positive change in their lives as a result of the group process.
NOTE: AT THIS TIME, I'M NOT OFFERING A GROUP BUT MAY BE OFFERING IT IN THE FUTURE. Recognize how and why your anger gets triggered and out of control. Identify feelings and underlying emotions. Interrupt the cycle before it causes damage. Learn and apply skills and tools and learn to express important feelings more effectively and safely. Find the motivation to choose healthy outlets.

NOTE: AT THIS TIME, I'M NOT OFFERING A GROUP BUT MAY BE OFFERING IT IN THE FUTURE. Recognize how and why your anger gets triggered and out of control. Identify feelings and underlying emotions. Interrupt the cycle before it causes damage. Learn and apply skills and tools and learn to express important feelings more effectively and safely. Find the motivation to choose healthy outlets.
Emotional Regulation & Social Skills: Could your child use help managing big feelings and impulses? This group draws from Michelle Garcia-Winner's social thinking curriculum, using a narrative-based approach to these behaviors by externalizing them as "Unthinkables" characters that your child will learn to combat - just like their favorite superheroes! Using a group format, your child can connect to peers who have similar struggles and develop skills in these areas and build new friendships. This is a great group for children with ADHD or high-functioning ASD. Neither diagnosis is required to join the group.

Emotional Regulation & Social Skills: Could your child use help managing big feelings and impulses? This group draws from Michelle Garcia-Winner's social thinking curriculum, using a narrative-based approach to these behaviors by externalizing them as "Unthinkables" characters that your child will learn to combat - just like their favorite superheroes! Using a group format, your child can connect to peers who have similar struggles and develop skills in these areas and build new friendships. This is a great group for children with ADHD or high-functioning ASD. Neither diagnosis is required to join the group.
In this 8 week expressive arts therapy group for women, we will be utilizing movement, drama, painting, writing, and collage to explore the archetype of the Wild Woman as a doorway to personal power, intuitive knowing and creative energy. This group is wonderful for women who: have an active inner critic; struggle with self-esteem; feel like life has become too much work and too little play; want connection and nourishment in a community of women; desire more creative exploration and expression in their lives. Group begins: TBD.
Saturday mornings. Intake meeting is required to join group.

In this 8 week expressive arts therapy group for women, we will be utilizing movement, drama, painting, writing, and collage to explore the archetype of the Wild Woman as a doorway to personal power, intuitive knowing and creative energy. This group is wonderful for women who: have an active inner critic; struggle with self-esteem; feel like life has become too much work and too little play; want connection and nourishment in a community of women; desire more creative exploration and expression in their lives. Group begins: TBD.
Saturday mornings. Intake meeting is required to join group.
New dates to be determined. Save Your Marriage/Relationship - an 8 hour relationship workshop based on the research of John Gottman, PhD and his book the Seven Principles For Making Marriage Work. Visit my website for registration information.

New dates to be determined. Save Your Marriage/Relationship - an 8 hour relationship workshop based on the research of John Gottman, PhD and his book the Seven Principles For Making Marriage Work. Visit my website for registration information.
1) Living with Cancer-a support group for individuals living with cancer from Diagnosis to Post-Treatment 2)Infertility- a support group for surviving Infertility emotionally and practically

1) Living with Cancer-a support group for individuals living with cancer from Diagnosis to Post-Treatment 2)Infertility- a support group for surviving Infertility emotionally and practically
This online group will provide community and support for living with anxiety. Many of us were experiencing high levels of anxiety before the COVID19 crisis. If you are feeling overwhelmed, fearful, alone and unsure about what to do, this is an opportunity to find refuge and cultivate practical tools for navigating high levels of stress and uncertainty. The group will incorporate meditation, guided imagery, psycho-education and giving and receiving support.

This online group will provide community and support for living with anxiety. Many of us were experiencing high levels of anxiety before the COVID19 crisis. If you are feeling overwhelmed, fearful, alone and unsure about what to do, this is an opportunity to find refuge and cultivate practical tools for navigating high levels of stress and uncertainty. The group will incorporate meditation, guided imagery, psycho-education and giving and receiving support.
See more therapy options for Oakland
FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in Oakland?
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.