Support Groups in Ventura, CA
Create Healthy Relationships, is a therapy group for women, focusing on self- focus/empowerment in relationships. In the safety of a secure environment, you will gain insight into yourself and how you function in relationships, starting with the relationship with yourself. As you share life experiences and bond with each other, your strengths and weaknesses gradually unfold in miniature. Though honest disclosure of your feelings and the willingness to receive feedback as to how others experience you, you will be able to explore and heal your co-dependency issues, empowering you to create the loving connections you've always wanted.

Hosted by Terrence Terri O'Connor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Group meets in Ventura, CA 93003
I believe many painful disorders such as depression and anxiety are rooted in unresolved relationship stress and disconnect. While this pain may have originated in a client's early childhood it is most definitely resurfacing in the client's present relationships.
With my expertise, clients will recognize distorted perceptions and unhealthy relationship patterns that are keeping them stuck. They will begin to own their part in the relationship dynamic which can be highly empowering. Also, learning more effective relationship skills with the important people in their lives will enable clients to begin to experience relief from their painful clinical conditions.
At HOPE Counseling Center, we believe in creating pathways to emotional wellness through compassionate, evidence-based therapy. Our diverse team of licensed therapists specializes in helping individuals and couples navigate life's challenges, from relationship difficulties and anxiety to depression and trauma. Located in both PA and CAs, we provide flexible scheduling options, including evening and weekend appointments. We accept goldcoast insurance and offer sliding scale fees to ensure quality mental health care remains accessible to all. Each client receives a personalized treatment approach that integrates various therapeutic modalities.

Hosted by Dr. Lauren Lawson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Group meets in Ventura, CA 93001
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety that never seems to subside? Life can feel so hard when worry takes over your days and keeps you up at night. Family conflicts and tough relationships might be making everything feel worse. Maybe you're stuck in cycles that aren't working, dealing with too much stress at home or work, or feeling anxious about changes in your life. When anxiety shows up in your body, your sleep, and your relationships, it's hard to see a way forward. Whether you're struggling with ongoing family issues, daily stress, or anxiety that won't let go, know that things can get better.
I would like to offer a pro bono session to anyone who has been directly impacted by the horrendous attack in Las Vegas . I am offering one , session (pro bono) as a service to my community. A group may develop from these initial sessions.

Are you experiencing anxiety, hopelessness or helplessness,or feelings of being overwhelmed because of issues from your past,current relationship problems or family problems? Have you come to a crossroads in your life where you are ready to make a change? Are you wanting to find meaning in your life, a sense of personal power, recover your deepst dreams, and reach your highest potential? If so, I can help.
I have a doctoral degree in clinical psychology . I am not a traditional psychologist. I am a certified chemical dependency counselor and clinical hypnotherapist with a spiritual counseling and life empowerment focus.
This is a group for individuals who want to stop feeling so alone in their struggles with anxiety, obsessive or compulsive thoughts and actions. Group members receive support from others dealing with similar experiences. This also can be an addition for those who want extra support outside of individual therapy. Some of the topics covered will include ways to decrease anxiety or unhelpful behaviours, ways to disengage from the trap of anxiety or obsessions, how to tolerate ambiguity and uncertainty better and how to enhance self care and a healthy sense of self.

I specialize in helping people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship concerns, self-esteem and challenging family dynamics. These issues may be due to early trauma, feeling unfulfilled, having a lack of meaningful connection or a challenging life transition such as moving or difficulties in their career. By creating a safe, accepting and empathic environment we will tune in to your own resiliency and strengthen your sense of self awareness, wisdom and connection to self and others. Creating this environment helps individuals uncover their story, find healing and learn new approaches to living the life they want.
Ordered to attend anger management classes? Our program meets courted mandated requirements and our facilitators are certified specialists from the National Anger Management Association. Call to schedule an intake appointment today. At the intake you must bring the following: Court Minutes, Photo ID, & Intake Fee ($60 which includes Intake Packet & Workbook).

Everyone has a past but we can't let it define us. Regardless of the reason(s) that bring you to therapy, I believe you are the expert on your own life so providing you with a healing environment where you feel safe, respected, supported and valued will always be the first goal. I focus on helping clients gain personal insight, identify problematic patterns, improve coping skills, develop feelings of self-acceptance and satisfaction and uncover strengths.
This is a group for all first responder partners. The purpose of this group is to support and normalize the unique culture that first responder families go through. My goal is to create a safe and understanding space to freely speak and be heard. My goal is to also educate and empower all group members in finding their self-worth, independence, and teach healthy communication skills within their relationships.

I see both first responders as well as non first responders in my practice. I find that one of the most important elements to good therapy is a good match between the therapist and client. I encourage anyone looking into therapy to schedule a free consultation call to ensure that we are a good match! It may also help to listen to a few of my podcast episodes to get a feel for my personality and approaches to treatment. I work with young adults (16 and up) as well as adults to help process trauma, anxiety, depression, and social and relational issues.

This group is an hour and a half long music and art therapy group that is designed for individuals who want help managing stress, depression and for anyone interested in the therapeutic aspects of artistic and musical expression. We will be using musical instruments at times and art supplies will be provided. Groups will take place indoors in a safe confidential space and there is no artistic or musical skills needed. This is a closed group for adults 18+ and requires a commitment of 5 sessions at $250 deposit with 8 spots available.

Hosted by Sara Trevino Faulstich
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Group meets in Ventura, CA 93003
Welcome to my psychology today page, I’m so glad you’re here. My goal is to support you on your path as you make new discoveries that lead you to a peaceful and fulfilling life. I'm trained in traditional psychotherapeutic methods combined with a deeper more nuanced understanding of the human experience. I strive to create a safe atmosphere for you to learn new ways of meeting life’s challenges and coping with stress. If you or a loved one are suffering from depression, anxiety, addiction, or trauma, I can help. No matter what situation you are struggling with, we can work together to heal your inner wounds, and build the resilience
This is a group designed to instruct adults on the basic principles of finance: Budgetting, Effective Communication, Living within your means. This runs for 24 sessions, There is a waiting list, if interested please contact Dr T. Taylor

I have over ten years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, facing challenges and guiding them through rough times to fortify their resolve. If you need guidance, good therapy, and a viable plan of action for matters such as; depression, anxiety, abandonment, arrested development, sadness, low self-esteem, assertiveness, divorce, seperation, parenting help, grief, as well as many other challenges, then do not hesitate to contact me. I emphasize a warm, compassionate, and positively reinforced approach, that is completely confidential in a pleasant, and safe, environment.
Support group for anyone who wants to hear what others are doing to cope and move forward feedback, cross talk, and a licensed Substance Use Disorder Counselor to provide Psycho-Educations.

Hosted by Tomas Joseph Madrigal
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CATC-I, CATC-II, L-13546
Group meets in Ventura, CA 93001
Struggling with addiction and feel rehab isn’t an option? Leaving your family, job, school and responsibilities for an extended period of time is not always needed to get yourself healthy and on track. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, I know the challenges of this lifestyle. Being caught in the cycle of addiction is hard--feelings of fear, failure, guilt, and shame. You may have tried stopping on your own, only to find yourself engaging in the same unhelpful behavior. Breaking this cycle alone is tough! Counseling may be more effective for you than rehab. I specialize in moderation & abstinence based approaches.
This is a men's group which allows for personal exploration and growth into the issues related to men's relational and emotive well being. The benefit of a cohesive, therapist supported peer group is healing and informative. The groups will run for 6 weeks and commitment to the group is essential. The groups are confidential and the setting is comfortable and welcoming. Feel free to call the office with questions or more information. 805-910-5944

Hosted by Dr. Demi Shugrue
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, RN, BS, MA, LPCC, MFT
Group meets in Ventura, CA 93003
The path to mental wellness is a journey through the challenges life has placed in our paths. One cannot live a well-connected life without care and attention to one's own mental wellness. Issues related to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, family discord or marital stumbling blocks distract your mind and derail your lives, causing emotional turmoil and decreased quality to the living experience. Each of us is responsible to attend and maintain our Mental Wellness as to stay relationally healthy and emotionally engaged in the experience of living.
Group is paused- Vulvodynia Group (chronic pelvic pain) . Learn methods to eliminate or greatly reduce your pain based on brain training techniques.

Hosted by Sipora B. Weissman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Ventura, CA 93001
I get what it's like to live with- Chronic Pain & Illness, terrible Anxiety, and being Highly Sensitive that you feel everything! I help people with these issues along with complex trauma. Connecting the dots to understand how your childhood (upbringing, trauma, stressful events, family) may be contributing to your distress today can be extremely eye opening and transformative. In session I use many deeper brain therapies to support change. Healing and becoming a secure capable human is the goal and completely attainable. I view therapy as a collaboration, and as a Mind-Body Therapist I am an active participant and guide.
Welcome to New Generations Counseling Center! A Safe Place; As We All Have a Story. With the help of our staff, whether it’s our therapists or our support staff, we look forward to interacting with you. Additionally, we take big pride with working with the health insurance companies who have teams that assist you in seeking out care. We are proudly accepting Gold Coast Health Plan (Ventura County Specific/MEDI-CAL) to meet the needs of the Ventura County Community.

I am a somatic certified therapist and I provide compassionate and grounded evidence-based approaches for a holistic and effective treatment. I see individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness or stress-related issues. I help clients learn to express their feelings safely to find their authentic selves, experience validation, gain practical tools to manage symptoms & improve well-being. I provide a safe space to gain a better understanding of mental health, to develop coping strategies, enhance self-esteem, and ultimately achieve a higher quality of life.
In this 12-week group, boys will work through a program of discussing mental health and coping skills in dealing with emotional stress, relationships (i.e. peer pressure), and other environmental influences.

Over the course of his career, Dr. Valenzuela has worked in a variety of settings. The breadth of his experience includes extensive work with severe mood and psychotic disorders. Dr. Valenzuela’s commitment to addressing mental health issues from an early age has informed his work with adolescents in the juvenile justice system and in schools. His work in local community settings has guided his professional identity as a warm, empathic, nonjudgmental, and depth-oriented practitioner.
Small private practice offering individual, couple, and adolescent psychotherapy specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, ptsd, addiction, interpersonal relationships, and more.

Hosted by John Joseph Tarsitano
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Group meets in Ventura, CA 93003
You’ve taken a courageous step by exploring therapy, and I honor the path that has led you here. You might be feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed by life’s challenges. Perhaps you’re navigating a major transition, experiencing a sense of loss, or longing for deeper meaning and connection. Whatever has brought you to this point, know that you don’t have to face it alone. I offer a compassionate, reflective space where you can slow down, listen inward, and reconnect with the parts of yourself that may have been neglected, forgotten, or left behind.
Join this community group for self-reflection, creativity, and support. There will be an optional prompt offered each week or you can write what is authentic for you. There will be approximately one hour of writing time and one hour for sharing, feedback, and reflection. Sharing is always optional.

The experiences we move through in life are complex; the balance of thought, emotion, and sensation is delicate. Life experiences create a pattern that we will unconsciously replay, often leading to symptoms and suffering. In order to break an unhealthy pattern, we must first become aware of the traumas, influences, and beliefs that create this paradigm. Through self-awareness, we gain insight into our true nature, develop the ability to self-regulate, and become empowered to create a new lifestyle. True recovery is attaining and maintaining a lifestyle that emphasizes a positive relationship with yourself.
Both a women's and men's groups are facilitated separately adhering to Linehan's DBT model. The environment is safe and confidential and the focus is on recovery from life transition, grief, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, emotion dysregulation, anger, depression, PTSD, and borderline PD. The groups are two hours long and are offered weekly. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, non-judgemental with a focus on validation, understanding, and healing, What will be achieved is an in depth understand of mindfulness, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and emotion regulation. The journey is life changing!

The therapeutic atmosphere provided is safe, encouraging, insight oriented, and flexible. Over the years, I have focused my expertise on working with adults, families, and couples. I make sure that my clients feel validated, heard, and understood in a non-judgmental environment. Their needs, history, and life circumstances are taken into consideration in the therapeutic process. The goal is for my clients to achieve unconditional understanding, peace, and relief from disturbing symptoms. I am passionate about helping my clients achieve health and improvement in their quality of life.
This group experience will help you cultivate your compassionate heart. Your sense of trust will grow. Your feelings of safety and comfort will increase. You will feel more confident to seek out new experiences and create new opportunities for yourself. Your inner wisdom will become available to you. Your relationships will blossom. Join us.

I strive to inspire richness and meaningfulness in life, greater than one has ever known before! With compassion, warmth, an attitude of mutual respect and genuine caring, I can guide you through challenging life transitions and personal awakenings. I have been a licensed Marriage and Family therapist and lecturer for more than 30 years. I have taught psychology classes in a local community college and have extensive experience in a broad scope of community settings which adds great depth to my professional practice and life experience. Join me in a journey of discovery. Find more information at www.BonnieRose.com
You will begin with a 45 minute medical clearance and Ketamine education session with the Dr Ben Mati, MD with whom I provide KAP. Next is a 50 minute preparation session with me where we can get to know one another and discuss the procedures and protocols for the Ketamine medicine session. Next is a 3 hour ketamine assisted psychotherapy medicine session with myself Dr Mati and one other participant. We follow up in the next 48 hours with a 50 minute integration session.

I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. My practice focuses on trauma, mood disorders, life transitions, addiction & recovery, and relationships. I work with adult women and men. In addition to traditional talk therapy, I practice Attachment Focused EMDR both in person and remotely. I have also been practicing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for over 5 years with an emphasis on treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma. I trained as a KAP therapist at the Ketamine Training Center in San Rafael, California. I am trained by MAPS in MDMA Assisted Psychotherapy. I am certified in Psychedelic Therapy by Fluence.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Life Skills Therapy Group in Ventura. VIDEO THERAPY. Decrease depression, anxiety, anger, relationship conflicts, mood disorders, personality disorders & other emotional/mental health issues. Teaches mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance & interpersonal effectiveness skills; offers support. Safe, confidential, non-judgmental & compassionate environment to heal, discover one's strengths, learn effective coping skills. Evidence-based practice; trained by Marsha Linehan, founder of DBT; 18-20 weeks, Mons, 4p-6p. Groups are ongoing; spots open. Heidi Allison, LCSW, 562-449-7298; email: heidiar@sbcglobal.net. Cost: I bill Gold Coast/Beacon, Medicare and Kaiser, or Cash: $50 per session.

Hosted by Heidi Allison Dbt Therapist; New Directions Dbt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DBT
Group meets in Ventura, CA 93003
Taking new DBT Group members; VIDEO THERAPY. DBT & CBT Specialist helping individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD/trauma, difficulty managing emotions, relationship issues, BPD & personality disorders and other issues. (GOLD COAST/BEACON/MEDICAL & MEDICARE provider & private pay). We will work together to help you uncover what is bothering you & improve your coping skills. My approach is strength-based; I believe that everyone is capable of improving their lives, reducing suffering & symptoms. We all have answers within us; sometimes we need someone to guide us in finding our truth/learning coping skills.
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FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in Ventura?
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.