Support Groups in Santa Monica, CA

If you're stable in recovery from addictive behaviors, committed to living with your new-found freedom, and want solid relapse prevention skills, this 8-week group could be fantastic for you. Through a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices, you'll learn how to effectively work with triggers, manage cravings/urges, increase your inner strength, not get derailed by all the thoughts in your head, and make skillful decisions instead of knee-jerk reactions. Relapse can be prevented at numerous points along the way. Let's discuss how you can be a part of this dynamic group.
Photo of Mary Ann Abosch, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, TMF
Hosted by Mary Ann Abosch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, TMF
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90403
If you're stable in recovery from addictive behaviors, committed to living with your new-found freedom, and want solid relapse prevention skills, this 8-week group could be fantastic for you. Through a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices, you'll learn how to effectively work with triggers, manage cravings/urges, increase your inner strength, not get derailed by all the thoughts in your head, and make skillful decisions instead of knee-jerk reactions. Relapse can be prevented at numerous points along the way. Let's discuss how you can be a part of this dynamic group.
(424) 353-2465 View (424) 353-2465
Eating disorder/disordered eating group using mindfulness skills and tools to help clients cope with their eating/body image issues. The group is in its 10th year and offers a safe non-shaming environment. We structure our group with education-skill learning, process/sharing time, and meditation.
Photo of Pam Siegel, Marriage & Family Therapist, MPH, MFT
Hosted by Pam Siegel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPH, MFT
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90401
Eating disorder/disordered eating group using mindfulness skills and tools to help clients cope with their eating/body image issues. The group is in its 10th year and offers a safe non-shaming environment. We structure our group with education-skill learning, process/sharing time, and meditation.
(424) 229-1951 View (424) 229-1951
Inquire about our virtual Body Image and Eating Disorder Recovery groups. Our team provides Nutrition education groups and specialized recovery groups from decades of combined experience running eating disorder and mental health treatment centers. Virtual participation in California.
Photo of Dawn Delgado - EMDR Collective, Founder Dawn Delgado, CEDS, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS-S, EMDR
Hosted by EMDR Collective, Founder Dawn Delgado, CEDS, EMDR
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS-S, EMDR
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90403
Inquire about our virtual Body Image and Eating Disorder Recovery groups. Our team provides Nutrition education groups and specialized recovery groups from decades of combined experience running eating disorder and mental health treatment centers. Virtual participation in California.
(424) 347-1784 View (424) 347-1784
A weekly group (capping at 6-8 people) with alternating weeks of DBT skills and Process co-led by Level 3 Intensive Trained (Behavioral Tech) clinician and substance abuse/trauma specialist.
Photo of Claire Hughes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Claire Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90401
A weekly group (capping at 6-8 people) with alternating weeks of DBT skills and Process co-led by Level 3 Intensive Trained (Behavioral Tech) clinician and substance abuse/trauma specialist.
(424) 373-8746 View (424) 373-8746
In the group you will get in touch with different aspects some of which are listed below: Create awareness of the specific thoughts you carry throughout the day. Is your mood where you would like it to be? Is your life where you want it to be? Welcome new opportunities beyond your imagination. Every meeting will consist of an open guided meditation following by a group process.
Photo of Dafi Shanti, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Dafi Shanti
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90402
In the group you will get in touch with different aspects some of which are listed below: Create awareness of the specific thoughts you carry throughout the day. Is your mood where you would like it to be? Is your life where you want it to be? Welcome new opportunities beyond your imagination. Every meeting will consist of an open guided meditation following by a group process.
(424) 587-2147 View (424) 587-2147
Are you a woman whose heart has been wounded after a lifetime of putting other people's needs & wants above your own? Do you find it hard to honor yourself & do what you really want? Have you been hurt by emotionally abusive familial, romantic, or professional relationships & are finally ready to heal? If so, our group may be an important step in your healing journey. We teach assertiveness, self-compassion, & self-esteem skills in a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment. You will learn how to value your voice, how to lessen codependent behaviors, & how to build a strong, loving relationship with yourself.
Photo of Sheenie Ambardar - The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD, Psychiatrist, MD
Hosted by The Happiness Psychiatrist | Sheenie Ambardar MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you a woman whose heart has been wounded after a lifetime of putting other people's needs & wants above your own? Do you find it hard to honor yourself & do what you really want? Have you been hurt by emotionally abusive familial, romantic, or professional relationships & are finally ready to heal? If so, our group may be an important step in your healing journey. We teach assertiveness, self-compassion, & self-esteem skills in a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment. You will learn how to value your voice, how to lessen codependent behaviors, & how to build a strong, loving relationship with yourself.
(424) 581-0623 View (424) 581-0623
I offer recurring 8 week trauma groups focused on exploring complex, relational and developmental traumas. Clients may participate in one or more 8 week series. Concurrent individual therapy is typically required to ensure members have adequate support; referrals can be provided if needed.
Photo of Ava Rose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Ava Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90403
I offer recurring 8 week trauma groups focused on exploring complex, relational and developmental traumas. Clients may participate in one or more 8 week series. Concurrent individual therapy is typically required to ensure members have adequate support; referrals can be provided if needed.
(424) 324-3596 View (424) 324-3596
Connected Couples 8 week Online Course Fill in inquiry form at https://www.talktomichele.com/contact/ Start connecting with each other again and find new ways of communicating with this self-guided course for couples who are struggling to find closeness again.
Photo of Michele Robin Hahn - Michele Hahn Relationship Specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MFT
Hosted by Michele Hahn Relationship Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MFT
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90401
Connected Couples 8 week Online Course Fill in inquiry form at https://www.talktomichele.com/contact/ Start connecting with each other again and find new ways of communicating with this self-guided course for couples who are struggling to find closeness again.
(424) 271-4466 View (424) 271-4466
Motherhood changes everything. Who you thought you were before you decided to become a mother becomes altered in a way that may be impossible to articulate. Struggling with motherhood identity issues is a process every mother encounters. Who are you as a mother? Who are you as an individual? Can you maintain a sense of self amidst the demands of motherhood? Can you have and excel in both your personal and professional lives? Can you feel sexy? These are all valid questions that mother's struggle with. Getting support and exploring these issues is the goal of the group.
Photo of Christina Stein, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Hosted by Christina Stein
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90401
Motherhood changes everything. Who you thought you were before you decided to become a mother becomes altered in a way that may be impossible to articulate. Struggling with motherhood identity issues is a process every mother encounters. Who are you as a mother? Who are you as an individual? Can you maintain a sense of self amidst the demands of motherhood? Can you have and excel in both your personal and professional lives? Can you feel sexy? These are all valid questions that mother's struggle with. Getting support and exploring these issues is the goal of the group.
(424) 570-2234 View (424) 570-2234
"Parenting Skills Education Series" is a 4-week, virtual, 6-member group led by Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Mary L. Williams. that helps group members identify family strengths and challenges; learn effective communication skills; develop tools that can help parents and children better relate; and identify hopes for their family. Utilizing Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Mindfulness practices and tools, members can become more aware of practices that have challenged parenting in their families and learn tools that help change the course of the way they parent and the accompanying results. July 5, 12, 19, 26.
Photo of Mary Linda Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Mary Linda Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90401
"Parenting Skills Education Series" is a 4-week, virtual, 6-member group led by Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Mary L. Williams. that helps group members identify family strengths and challenges; learn effective communication skills; develop tools that can help parents and children better relate; and identify hopes for their family. Utilizing Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Mindfulness practices and tools, members can become more aware of practices that have challenged parenting in their families and learn tools that help change the course of the way they parent and the accompanying results. July 5, 12, 19, 26.
(323) 918-5771 View (323) 918-5771
During this pandemic it is important to have affordable mental healthcare. I will be providing virtual processing groups available for 25 dollars a session. (must live in CA) Group will be a safe space where clients can explore and process feelings. In addition, clients will be able to talk about how this pandemic has changed their lives, and interact with other peers who are struggling during this crisis.
Photo of Ashley Alpert, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Hosted by Ashley Alpert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90403
During this pandemic it is important to have affordable mental healthcare. I will be providing virtual processing groups available for 25 dollars a session. (must live in CA) Group will be a safe space where clients can explore and process feelings. In addition, clients will be able to talk about how this pandemic has changed their lives, and interact with other peers who are struggling during this crisis.
(310) 363-7369 View (310) 363-7369
Relationships can play a huge role in our well-being, and they can also be one of our biggest sources of stress. This group is for you if you are feeling alone, confused, isolated, and mourning a breakup, experiencing stress with relationships, platonic or romantic, you keep repeating painful patterns in relationships, wanting to heal old wounds, you are navigating dating and wanting to build healthier connections, struggling with letting go or setting boundaries.
Photo of Sara Lichstein, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Sara Lichstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90401
Relationships can play a huge role in our well-being, and they can also be one of our biggest sources of stress. This group is for you if you are feeling alone, confused, isolated, and mourning a breakup, experiencing stress with relationships, platonic or romantic, you keep repeating painful patterns in relationships, wanting to heal old wounds, you are navigating dating and wanting to build healthier connections, struggling with letting go or setting boundaries.
(805) 427-8479 View (805) 427-8479
The Daring Way (tm) is a highly experiential methodology based on the research of Dr. Brené Brown. The method was designed for work with individuals, couples, families and others. It has been utilized in clinical educational, and professional settings. During the process we explore topics such as vulnerability, courage, shame, and worthiness. We examine the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that are holding us back and we identify the new choices and practices that will move us toward more authentic and wholehearted living. The primary focus is on developing shame resilience skills and developing daily practices that transform the way we live, love, parent, and lead.
Photo of Angela M. Aiello, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PhD
Hosted by Angela M. Aiello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PhD
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90403
The Daring Way (tm) is a highly experiential methodology based on the research of Dr. Brené Brown. The method was designed for work with individuals, couples, families and others. It has been utilized in clinical educational, and professional settings. During the process we explore topics such as vulnerability, courage, shame, and worthiness. We examine the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that are holding us back and we identify the new choices and practices that will move us toward more authentic and wholehearted living. The primary focus is on developing shame resilience skills and developing daily practices that transform the way we live, love, parent, and lead.
(424) 294-8910 View (424) 294-8910
Adults with ADHD have a variety of challenges to productivity and interpersonal relationships. Past failures may have lead to low self esteem and shame. In this group you will learn more about ADHD, learn to accept your neurodiverse brain and all its wonder, and learn how small steps toward changing certain patterns can make a big difference. I have ADHD myself and have worked with ADHD clients for over 30 years, and trained with Ned Hallowell, MD. This group may answer some questions, provide support and give you some helpful tools.
Photo of Paula A Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Paula A Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90403
Adults with ADHD have a variety of challenges to productivity and interpersonal relationships. Past failures may have lead to low self esteem and shame. In this group you will learn more about ADHD, learn to accept your neurodiverse brain and all its wonder, and learn how small steps toward changing certain patterns can make a big difference. I have ADHD myself and have worked with ADHD clients for over 30 years, and trained with Ned Hallowell, MD. This group may answer some questions, provide support and give you some helpful tools.
(424) 587-2544 View (424) 587-2544
Coming out. Living as a gay person. Partnership. Parenting. Health Issues. Aging. Being alone. Gay men share their diverse experiences and support one another through the challenges of partner relationships, workplace dynamics, self-care and families.
Photo of Sharon Margaret Friedman, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Hosted by Sharon Margaret Friedman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90402
Coming out. Living as a gay person. Partnership. Parenting. Health Issues. Aging. Being alone. Gay men share their diverse experiences and support one another through the challenges of partner relationships, workplace dynamics, self-care and families.
(310) 736-1423 View (310) 736-1423
12 week Reflective Parenting Workshop Dates -TBA
Photo of Margaret Dunham, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Hosted by Margaret Dunham
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90403
12 week Reflective Parenting Workshop Dates -TBA
(424) 265-4710 View (424) 265-4710
This group provides a supportive environment where members can explore and improve their interpersonal relationships and communication. This group blends process-oriented exploration with the introduction of practical coping strategies to support emotional well-being, relationship effectiveness, and communication skills.
Photo of Sarah Dihmes, Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Hosted by Sarah Dihmes
Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90403
This group provides a supportive environment where members can explore and improve their interpersonal relationships and communication. This group blends process-oriented exploration with the introduction of practical coping strategies to support emotional well-being, relationship effectiveness, and communication skills.
(424) 622-3155 View (424) 622-3155
Do you wish that you could live life with greater enthusiasm and enjoy each day more than you currently do? The good news is that science has identified key factors that can increase our happiness and well-being. Come learn exercises and develop constructive habits that will help you lead a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
Photo of Rachel Fintzy Woods, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Hosted by Rachel Fintzy Woods
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90401
Do you wish that you could live life with greater enthusiasm and enjoy each day more than you currently do? The good news is that science has identified key factors that can increase our happiness and well-being. Come learn exercises and develop constructive habits that will help you lead a more fulfilling and purposeful life.
(310) 365-1632 View (310) 365-1632
This is a 14 week evidenced based group developed by researchers at UCLA. Groups are for teens and their parents and run concurrently. The focus is to help teens make and keep friends. Topics include: conversational skills, how to deal with teasing and bullying, planning get togethers, finding a good peer group and many more.
Photo of Alison Meredith Greiner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Alison Meredith Greiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90403
This is a 14 week evidenced based group developed by researchers at UCLA. Groups are for teens and their parents and run concurrently. The focus is to help teens make and keep friends. Topics include: conversational skills, how to deal with teasing and bullying, planning get togethers, finding a good peer group and many more.
(310) 683-4942 View (310) 683-4942
Coping skills and mindfulness CBT group to better manage anxiety including panic attacks, ocd and social anxiety
Photo of Teal Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Teal Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Santa Monica, CA 90401
Coping skills and mindfulness CBT group to better manage anxiety including panic attacks, ocd and social anxiety
(213) 370-5094 View (213) 370-5094

See more therapy options for Santa Monica

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Santa Monica?

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.