Support Groups in Sierra Madre, CA

This is a weekend Oct 28 and 29, 2017 workshop for Asian American couples or Mixed Race with Asian partner couple.
Photo of Elizabeth Shon, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Elizabeth Shon
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
This is a weekend Oct 28 and 29, 2017 workshop for Asian American couples or Mixed Race with Asian partner couple.
(626) 671-4930 View (626) 671-4930
Organizing, sequencing, multi-tasking, sustaining attention, long-range planning, inhibiting impulsive responses, self-checking, initiating tasks without procrastinating. These are the Executive Skills, essential to overcoming the limitations of ADHD. This interactive group affords adolescents the opportunity to learn and practice the Executive Skills and encourage one another in mastering them. As a result, students find school easier and more fun, and build social skills in the process. Each student's progress is measured both anecdotally and quantitatively, with parents being individually updated and coached free of charge. Admission is rolling.
Photo of Joseph B Dilley, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Joseph B Dilley
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Organizing, sequencing, multi-tasking, sustaining attention, long-range planning, inhibiting impulsive responses, self-checking, initiating tasks without procrastinating. These are the Executive Skills, essential to overcoming the limitations of ADHD. This interactive group affords adolescents the opportunity to learn and practice the Executive Skills and encourage one another in mastering them. As a result, students find school easier and more fun, and build social skills in the process. Each student's progress is measured both anecdotally and quantitatively, with parents being individually updated and coached free of charge. Admission is rolling.
(626) 539-2001 View (626) 539-2001
Each week we will dive into pre-selected films and TV episodes to explore psychological, philosophical, and spiritual themes found throughout these mediums. I will use my expertise and knowledge in these domains to help guide the conversation, while working with you to elicit your own subjective impressions from from the viewing of the week. Through this practice I plan to open up your creative spark of ideas. As you begin to understand film and TV from various perspectives, I guarantee you will begin to understand more of yourself and the creative way that you view the world around you.
Photo of Michael Hart Briesch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Michael Hart Briesch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Each week we will dive into pre-selected films and TV episodes to explore psychological, philosophical, and spiritual themes found throughout these mediums. I will use my expertise and knowledge in these domains to help guide the conversation, while working with you to elicit your own subjective impressions from from the viewing of the week. Through this practice I plan to open up your creative spark of ideas. As you begin to understand film and TV from various perspectives, I guarantee you will begin to understand more of yourself and the creative way that you view the world around you.
(626) 706-3417 View (626) 706-3417
For those that suffer from chronic and debilitating depression and/or anxiety, this is a small group that offers a safe place to share the unique burdens that result from symptoms of isolation, hopelessness and guilt. It is also an opportunity to broaden the scope of understanding of what it means to live with obstacles and overcome them within a supportive and normalizing community.
Hosted by Mari Ann Fortuna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
For those that suffer from chronic and debilitating depression and/or anxiety, this is a small group that offers a safe place to share the unique burdens that result from symptoms of isolation, hopelessness and guilt. It is also an opportunity to broaden the scope of understanding of what it means to live with obstacles and overcome them within a supportive and normalizing community.
(323) 745-2381 View (323) 745-2381
We offer DBT Skills Group for adults currently participating in therapy outside of our office, particularly for those not in comprehensive DBT. Research indicates that the DBT skills alone can assist a client in moving towards more effective behavior and reduce anxiety and depression over time. We invite you to join us to see if the DBT skills can help you enhance movement in your current treatment. *Participants will be asked to provide authorization for their current treatment provider and a consultation with both client and current therapist is required before acceptance to the group. Multiple days/times available.
Photo of Patricia L Gieselman - Choices Counseling & Skills Center, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Hosted by Choices Counseling & Skills Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
We offer DBT Skills Group for adults currently participating in therapy outside of our office, particularly for those not in comprehensive DBT. Research indicates that the DBT skills alone can assist a client in moving towards more effective behavior and reduce anxiety and depression over time. We invite you to join us to see if the DBT skills can help you enhance movement in your current treatment. *Participants will be asked to provide authorization for their current treatment provider and a consultation with both client and current therapist is required before acceptance to the group. Multiple days/times available.
(626) 935-9973 View (626) 935-9973
I co-lead a group therapy weekly session focused on helping people explore, heal and grow in overcoming difficulties in relating to others. This group is a place for people who struggle making friends, feeling misunderstood by those in their lives, or who feel they have difficulty relating to others. Group attendance is fixed every six months, however, please reach out if interested in joining this type of group therapy setting.
Photo of Joe Hovemeyer, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Hosted by Joe Hovemeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
I co-lead a group therapy weekly session focused on helping people explore, heal and grow in overcoming difficulties in relating to others. This group is a place for people who struggle making friends, feeling misunderstood by those in their lives, or who feel they have difficulty relating to others. Group attendance is fixed every six months, however, please reach out if interested in joining this type of group therapy setting.
(626) 610-4330 View (626) 610-4330
Join a supportive, welcoming group where men can explore and redefine what masculinity means today. We’ll dive into the pressures and expectations from society and family, and work together to challenge traditional roles. This is a space to share openly, talk about emotions, and build stronger connections with others who get what you're going through. By connecting with other men, you’ll gain insights, feel supported, and find your own path to a healthier, more positive version of masculinity. Together, we create a judgment-free community focused on personal growth and meaningful change.
Photo of Anil Shah, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Hosted by Anil Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Join a supportive, welcoming group where men can explore and redefine what masculinity means today. We’ll dive into the pressures and expectations from society and family, and work together to challenge traditional roles. This is a space to share openly, talk about emotions, and build stronger connections with others who get what you're going through. By connecting with other men, you’ll gain insights, feel supported, and find your own path to a healthier, more positive version of masculinity. Together, we create a judgment-free community focused on personal growth and meaningful change.
(626) 618-7964 View (626) 618-7964
I am looking for people interested in being part of a group that explores our relationships to each other. I want to focus on improving communication and expression of one's emotions and needs. I also want to focus on development of empathy and compassion towards others. I believe a group environment offers a unique way to learn about how we are with each other, and to grow in our ability to relate to each other.
Photo of Lydia Bangtson, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Lydia Bangtson
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
I am looking for people interested in being part of a group that explores our relationships to each other. I want to focus on improving communication and expression of one's emotions and needs. I also want to focus on development of empathy and compassion towards others. I believe a group environment offers a unique way to learn about how we are with each other, and to grow in our ability to relate to each other.
(818) 643-3940 View (818) 643-3940
Addressing all addictions and family dynamics due to addictions
Photo of Randy Bailey, Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MA
Hosted by Randy Bailey
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MA
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Addressing all addictions and family dynamics due to addictions
(818) 797-9629 View (818) 797-9629
If you want to break free from a narcissistic relationship (or have recently left), part one of this group will help end emotional/hidden abuse at the hands of narcissistic partners and family members and begin recovery. Part two of this group focuses on survivors' relationships with ourselves and we work on boundaries, self-love, attachment, trauma, and healthy relationships. The next groups begin summer 2025 are virtual and open to residents throughout California. Please reach out at paulatimonlcsw@gmail.com if you're interested in learning more.
Photo of Paula Timon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Paula Timon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
If you want to break free from a narcissistic relationship (or have recently left), part one of this group will help end emotional/hidden abuse at the hands of narcissistic partners and family members and begin recovery. Part two of this group focuses on survivors' relationships with ourselves and we work on boundaries, self-love, attachment, trauma, and healthy relationships. The next groups begin summer 2025 are virtual and open to residents throughout California. Please reach out at paulatimonlcsw@gmail.com if you're interested in learning more.
(626) 507-5013 View (626) 507-5013
Women's Ways of Wisdom is an intentional visioning space of co-healing where women committed to living courageously can gather to learn from their feminine power. Using our inner feminine wisdom and traditional women's teachings, we will transform our personal consciousness and connect with the collective consciousness that empowers women's voices and helps us to bring our unique contributions to the world. Embracing change can bring meaningful new work and relationships and awaken undiscovered creativity. If you are being called to step out of your comfort zone, this group is for you.
Photo of Susan Merletti, Counselor, LPCC, ATR
Hosted by Susan Merletti
Counselor, LPCC, ATR
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Women's Ways of Wisdom is an intentional visioning space of co-healing where women committed to living courageously can gather to learn from their feminine power. Using our inner feminine wisdom and traditional women's teachings, we will transform our personal consciousness and connect with the collective consciousness that empowers women's voices and helps us to bring our unique contributions to the world. Embracing change can bring meaningful new work and relationships and awaken undiscovered creativity. If you are being called to step out of your comfort zone, this group is for you.
(626) 658-3105 View (626) 658-3105
Balancing the pressures of school and home with having fun and maintaining friendships is really tough. But some kids seem able to make it happen. This group helps members make it happen for them, too. From completing assignments to confronting bullies, we cover it all.
Photo of Joseph B Dilley, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Joseph B Dilley
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Balancing the pressures of school and home with having fun and maintaining friendships is really tough. But some kids seem able to make it happen. This group helps members make it happen for them, too. From completing assignments to confronting bullies, we cover it all.
(626) 539-2001 View (626) 539-2001
SoulCollage® is a process through which you awaken your intuition by creating a personal deck of incredible, beautiful cards. Some people describe it as "spiritual scrap-booking". By connecting with your subconscious, these cards reveal deep personal meanings and will guide you in your quest to answer life's questions. SoulCollage® is an invaluable tool for guiding you towards the realization of your own inner wisdom as you transition through the stages of life. It accelerates and deepens your awareness of your unique talents, and the ways you can enrich your life and the lives of those around you.
Photo of Susan Merletti, Counselor, LPCC, ATR
Hosted by Susan Merletti
Counselor, LPCC, ATR
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
SoulCollage® is a process through which you awaken your intuition by creating a personal deck of incredible, beautiful cards. Some people describe it as "spiritual scrap-booking". By connecting with your subconscious, these cards reveal deep personal meanings and will guide you in your quest to answer life's questions. SoulCollage® is an invaluable tool for guiding you towards the realization of your own inner wisdom as you transition through the stages of life. It accelerates and deepens your awareness of your unique talents, and the ways you can enrich your life and the lives of those around you.
(626) 658-3105 View (626) 658-3105
This is a weekly group for parents of infants and young children to discuss such topics as attachment issues, developmental questions, relationship issues, early parenthood stress, and early birth experiences/trauma.
Hosted by Mari Ann Fortuna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
This is a weekly group for parents of infants and young children to discuss such topics as attachment issues, developmental questions, relationship issues, early parenthood stress, and early birth experiences/trauma.
(323) 745-2381 View (323) 745-2381
Designed for people who struggle with managing life's challenges and want to take control of the emotions, thoughts and behaviors that make their lives or relationships more difficult or intolerable. The DBT Skills groups offer individuals tools to decrease the reactivity or intensity of their emotions. By learning new skills to use in the moment, clients learn how to get through a bad situation without making it worse, improve problem solving, ask for what they want and say "No" effectively, in order to reduce their suffering and increase their happiness. Multiple days/times available. Adolescent program requires parent participation.
Photo of Patricia L Gieselman - Choices Counseling & Skills Center, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Hosted by Choices Counseling & Skills Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
Designed for people who struggle with managing life's challenges and want to take control of the emotions, thoughts and behaviors that make their lives or relationships more difficult or intolerable. The DBT Skills groups offer individuals tools to decrease the reactivity or intensity of their emotions. By learning new skills to use in the moment, clients learn how to get through a bad situation without making it worse, improve problem solving, ask for what they want and say "No" effectively, in order to reduce their suffering and increase their happiness. Multiple days/times available. Adolescent program requires parent participation.
(626) 935-9973 View (626) 935-9973
What classes should I take to get into the career I really want? Should I live at home to save money? In essence: Where am I going and who's going with me? These are the kinds of questions we are wise to ask as we transition out of high school and through our mid-twenties. The group affords members the opportunity to do so in a supportive atmosphere with like-minded others.
Photo of Joseph B Dilley, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Joseph B Dilley
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Sierra Madre, CA 91024
What classes should I take to get into the career I really want? Should I live at home to save money? In essence: Where am I going and who's going with me? These are the kinds of questions we are wise to ask as we transition out of high school and through our mid-twenties. The group affords members the opportunity to do so in a supportive atmosphere with like-minded others.
(626) 539-2001 View (626) 539-2001

More Groups Nearby

Do you love more than one person at a time? Do you love your partner, but have cheated? Are you single and want to have relationships with more than one person in an open, honest way? Polyamory may be a good relationship option for you. This group will focus on providing information and support for people exploring or practicing open/ polyamorous relationships.
Photo of Sandy Peace, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Sandy Peace
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Los Angeles, CA 90071
Do you love more than one person at a time? Do you love your partner, but have cheated? Are you single and want to have relationships with more than one person in an open, honest way? Polyamory may be a good relationship option for you. This group will focus on providing information and support for people exploring or practicing open/ polyamorous relationships.
(707) 329-3338 View (707) 329-3338
Group psychotherapy provides a powerful opportunity to improve your ability to cope with life's difficulties and relate to others in more effective ways. This unique experience allows for the unfolding and exploration of relational patterns that may be hindering your ability to fully engage in your relationships, connect authentically to others and get your emotional needs met. Group therapy can provide you with the environment, safety and support needed to continue your inner journey of awareness, growth and healing that can lead to a life with more clarity, purpose and satisfaction.
Photo of Laurie Audra Wiard, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Hosted by Laurie Audra Wiard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Group meets in Los Angeles, CA 90025
Group psychotherapy provides a powerful opportunity to improve your ability to cope with life's difficulties and relate to others in more effective ways. This unique experience allows for the unfolding and exploration of relational patterns that may be hindering your ability to fully engage in your relationships, connect authentically to others and get your emotional needs met. Group therapy can provide you with the environment, safety and support needed to continue your inner journey of awareness, growth and healing that can lead to a life with more clarity, purpose and satisfaction.
(310) 601-4376 View (310) 601-4376
Breakups are painful–they can also be transformative; opportunities to grow into the next phase of becoming. We have BEEN there, and we get it. Whether your breakup is fresh, long past, or still in the unfolding, The Achy Breaky Hearts Club is here for you. This six-week group, run by two licensed therapists and experienced breakup navigators, will explore grief and transition and provide tangible tools and community support for moving through this difficult time. We will lovingly create and hold a space for you to show up just as you are, wherever you are in the process.
Photo of Kayla Robbins, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Kayla Robbins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Pasadena, CA 91105
Breakups are painful–they can also be transformative; opportunities to grow into the next phase of becoming. We have BEEN there, and we get it. Whether your breakup is fresh, long past, or still in the unfolding, The Achy Breaky Hearts Club is here for you. This six-week group, run by two licensed therapists and experienced breakup navigators, will explore grief and transition and provide tangible tools and community support for moving through this difficult time. We will lovingly create and hold a space for you to show up just as you are, wherever you are in the process.
(323) 927-8202 View (323) 927-8202
Are you a high school girl who is struggling with stress, self-esteem, peer connection, perfectionism, body image issues and more? This group can be your safe space! Find yourself with like-minded female individuals who understand what you're going through and with whom you can foster connection and grow with. In this open-ended process group, learn coping skills, communication tools, and more!
Photo of Vanessa Ramirez, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Hosted by Vanessa Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Group meets in Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Are you a high school girl who is struggling with stress, self-esteem, peer connection, perfectionism, body image issues and more? This group can be your safe space! Find yourself with like-minded female individuals who understand what you're going through and with whom you can foster connection and grow with. In this open-ended process group, learn coping skills, communication tools, and more!
(424) 262-3414 View (424) 262-3414

See more therapy options for Sierra Madre

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Sierra Madre?

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.