Support Groups in Lafayette, CO

Increase self-trust and up-level your relational skills so you can navigate challenging conversations with mutual compassion and understanding. Couples report gaining clarity on why they react defensively and what they can do to increase winning strategies while side-stepping the automatic triggers of conflict. Based on the work of Terry Real and Pia Melody, this 6-week course compresses 7 months of communication tools in a supportive 'brave space' where you can transcend negative relationship dynamics and foster healthier interactions and a positive internal shift. Begins February 4, 2025. Tuesdays 5:30-7pm mountain time on Zoom.
Photo of Celeste Labadie - Celeste Labadie, RLT Relationship Counselor , Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Celeste Labadie, RLT Relationship Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Increase self-trust and up-level your relational skills so you can navigate challenging conversations with mutual compassion and understanding. Couples report gaining clarity on why they react defensively and what they can do to increase winning strategies while side-stepping the automatic triggers of conflict. Based on the work of Terry Real and Pia Melody, this 6-week course compresses 7 months of communication tools in a supportive 'brave space' where you can transcend negative relationship dynamics and foster healthier interactions and a positive internal shift. Begins February 4, 2025. Tuesdays 5:30-7pm mountain time on Zoom.
(720) 973-1580 View (720) 973-1580
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
Photo of Jade Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Hosted by Jade Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
(970) 614-4493 View (970) 614-4493
Life can feel stressful, and this past year plus - WOW! When we feel overwhelmed by a situation our bodies go into 'high alert' mode. When we feel more in control and better able to handle the demands on us, we can avoid the stress response that is so uncomfortable and so bad for our physical, mental and emotional health. In this workshop we will learn about perception and an arsenal of strategies to help us face challenges and live calmer, healthier lives. Group will be forming this summer, safely, in person, and/or virtually.
Photo of Judith (Judi) Laskodi, Counselor, MA, NCC
Hosted by Judith (Judi) Laskodi
Counselor, MA, NCC
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Life can feel stressful, and this past year plus - WOW! When we feel overwhelmed by a situation our bodies go into 'high alert' mode. When we feel more in control and better able to handle the demands on us, we can avoid the stress response that is so uncomfortable and so bad for our physical, mental and emotional health. In this workshop we will learn about perception and an arsenal of strategies to help us face challenges and live calmer, healthier lives. Group will be forming this summer, safely, in person, and/or virtually.
(415) 324-4958 View (415) 324-4958
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
Photo of Alyssa Fredricks, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Alyssa Fredricks
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
(970) 465-0310 View (970) 465-0310
March 22, 2025. This full-day experiential class is for committed couples who are ready to accept the challenging (and fun!) quest of leveling up their connection. Perhaps you've done some couples therapy and you are hungry to learn more about intimacy through communication, touch, and eroticism. This workshop creates an informative and guided space to explore how to rewire your old habits to create more meaningful engagement between you. You will explore fundamental intimacy skills and create shared meaning.
Photo of Melissa Walker - Embodied Relationships Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST, R-DMT
Hosted by Embodied Relationships Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CST, R-DMT
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
March 22, 2025. This full-day experiential class is for committed couples who are ready to accept the challenging (and fun!) quest of leveling up their connection. Perhaps you've done some couples therapy and you are hungry to learn more about intimacy through communication, touch, and eroticism. This workshop creates an informative and guided space to explore how to rewire your old habits to create more meaningful engagement between you. You will explore fundamental intimacy skills and create shared meaning.
(720) 740-8473 View (720) 740-8473
How Is Your Grief Today? • Are you feeling overwhelmed • Do you feel empty? • Are you having trouble focusing? • Are you feeling lost and alone? • You may benefit from a grief support group 6 Week In Person Mindfulness Based Grief Support Group Tuesday Evenings July 23 - August 27, 2024 6:00 - 7:30 PM Cost: $360 Contact: Tracey A. Lamers, MA, LPC 720-583-3593 tracey.lamers@gmail.com Location: Isabelle Rd., Lafayette, CO 80026 “The fact that a certain amount of times has gone by does not mean you should be feeling a certain way” Sameet Kumar - Grieving Mindfully
Photo of Tracey A Lamers - Tracey A. Lamers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Tracey A. Lamers, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
How Is Your Grief Today? • Are you feeling overwhelmed • Do you feel empty? • Are you having trouble focusing? • Are you feeling lost and alone? • You may benefit from a grief support group 6 Week In Person Mindfulness Based Grief Support Group Tuesday Evenings July 23 - August 27, 2024 6:00 - 7:30 PM Cost: $360 Contact: Tracey A. Lamers, MA, LPC 720-583-3593 tracey.lamers@gmail.com Location: Isabelle Rd., Lafayette, CO 80026 “The fact that a certain amount of times has gone by does not mean you should be feeling a certain way” Sameet Kumar - Grieving Mindfully
(720) 943-7167 View (720) 943-7167
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
Photo of Courtney Daniels, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hosted by Courtney Daniels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
(970) 550-8863 View (970) 550-8863
Perimenopause impacts everything from digestion, to sleep, to temperature modulation, to cognitive function, and yes, sexuality! Unfortunately, the research is minimal and many health professionals are misinformed. With so many confusing symptoms and a lack of informed support, you end up feeling helpless and frustrated. As a result, opportunities to invite the gifts of this transition to inform our growth and transformation gets missed. Together, we discuss the latest science on this major life/body/heart gateway and how it applies to embodiment and sexual intimacy. Saturday, May 17th, 2025 1pm - 4:30 pm Mountain Time $225 Virtual
Photo of Melissa Walker, MA, R-DMT, CST, LPC
Hosted by Melissa Walker
Verified Verified
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Perimenopause impacts everything from digestion, to sleep, to temperature modulation, to cognitive function, and yes, sexuality! Unfortunately, the research is minimal and many health professionals are misinformed. With so many confusing symptoms and a lack of informed support, you end up feeling helpless and frustrated. As a result, opportunities to invite the gifts of this transition to inform our growth and transformation gets missed. Together, we discuss the latest science on this major life/body/heart gateway and how it applies to embodiment and sexual intimacy. Saturday, May 17th, 2025 1pm - 4:30 pm Mountain Time $225 Virtual
(720) 443-1491 View (720) 443-1491
This group is for committed couples who are ready to accept the challenging (and fun!) quest of leveling up their connection. Perhaps you've done some couples therapy and you are hungry to learn more about intimacy through communication, touch, and eroticism. This workshop creates an informative and guided space to explore how to rewire your old habits to create more meaningful engagement between you. This full-day workshop will provide the chance to practice new skills with your partner in real-time with an ample lunch break for rest and integration. Reach out for more information!
Photo of Anna Mayer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, R-DMT
Hosted by Anna Mayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, R-DMT
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
This group is for committed couples who are ready to accept the challenging (and fun!) quest of leveling up their connection. Perhaps you've done some couples therapy and you are hungry to learn more about intimacy through communication, touch, and eroticism. This workshop creates an informative and guided space to explore how to rewire your old habits to create more meaningful engagement between you. This full-day workshop will provide the chance to practice new skills with your partner in real-time with an ample lunch break for rest and integration. Reach out for more information!
(720) 707-1297 View (720) 707-1297
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
Photo of Alex Buscaglia, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Alex Buscaglia
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
(970) 469-5062 View (970) 469-5062
Our couples therapy group is designed to focus on conflict management and effective communication between couples. The group setting allows couples to work alongside other couples who face similar challenges in their relationship. Couples can start to feel less alone in their relationship struggles and explore new ways of connecting. Sessions are based on evidence-based techniques, break down communication barriers, learn your partner’s emotions, and allow partners to turn towards each other instead of away. One-hour program provides time to process with your loved one in a group setting.
Photo of Melissa Raddatz - Kenosis Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LAC
Hosted by Kenosis Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LAC
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Our couples therapy group is designed to focus on conflict management and effective communication between couples. The group setting allows couples to work alongside other couples who face similar challenges in their relationship. Couples can start to feel less alone in their relationship struggles and explore new ways of connecting. Sessions are based on evidence-based techniques, break down communication barriers, learn your partner’s emotions, and allow partners to turn towards each other instead of away. One-hour program provides time to process with your loved one in a group setting.
(720) 741-7685 View (720) 741-7685
Are you interested in becoming a psychoanalyst? CCC is the first clinical and theoretical training program in Lacanian analysis in the state. We are affiliated with the Non- Profit Organization 501 (c) 3 of the Colorado Analytic Forum of the Lacanian Field. Our faculty is comprised of psychoanalysts members of the EPFCL and international, coming from South America and Europe. Our seminars and workshops are offered both semesters of the academic year. The Clinical College of Colorado also co-hosts one or two International Seminars every semester along with the Colorado Analytic Forum. More info via email clinicalcollegeofcolorado@gmail.com
Photo of Gabriela Zorzutti, ABD, PHDCand, AME, IFEPFCL
Hosted by Gabriela Zorzutti
Verified Verified
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Are you interested in becoming a psychoanalyst? CCC is the first clinical and theoretical training program in Lacanian analysis in the state. We are affiliated with the Non- Profit Organization 501 (c) 3 of the Colorado Analytic Forum of the Lacanian Field. Our faculty is comprised of psychoanalysts members of the EPFCL and international, coming from South America and Europe. Our seminars and workshops are offered both semesters of the academic year. The Clinical College of Colorado also co-hosts one or two International Seminars every semester along with the Colorado Analytic Forum. More info via email clinicalcollegeofcolorado@gmail.com
(303) 562-1478 View (303) 562-1478
"In Pieces to Peace: for Youth Experiencing Family Change"-- Teens experiencing a significant family change such as divorce often benefit from connecting with others who understand what they're going through. This group is designed to help participants cope with the potential stressors and wide range of emotions generated by the change in their world. In addition, they will learn important communication skills and self-care strategies as they adjust to a "new normal”. The groups meet weekly for 10 weeks, and include a combination of activities and discussion. Groups are co-facilitated by Kristen Cheesman, LMFT & Susie Bosley, MEd.
Photo of Kristen Cheesman - Boulder Support Group Specialists, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Boulder Support Group Specialists
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
"In Pieces to Peace: for Youth Experiencing Family Change"-- Teens experiencing a significant family change such as divorce often benefit from connecting with others who understand what they're going through. This group is designed to help participants cope with the potential stressors and wide range of emotions generated by the change in their world. In addition, they will learn important communication skills and self-care strategies as they adjust to a "new normal”. The groups meet weekly for 10 weeks, and include a combination of activities and discussion. Groups are co-facilitated by Kristen Cheesman, LMFT & Susie Bosley, MEd.
(720) 463-1545 View (720) 463-1545
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
Photo of Brienne Brown, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Brienne Brown
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
(970) 478-1459 View (970) 478-1459
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
Photo of Emma VandeRiet, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Emma VandeRiet
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
(970) 287-9292 View (970) 287-9292
If you are struggling with symptoms of PTSD, you don't need to suffer anymore! There is a powerful healing force that happens as you witness, and are witnessed, in the healing of trauma. This group takes a comprehensive approach to resolving trauma on physical, emotional and spiritual levels. I have combined the most powerful modalities for healing the affects that trauma has on your brain, body, and emotions so that you can experience the calm serenity that is your birthright! VISIT FOR MORE DETAILED INFO: https://comprehensivecounseling.net /groups/
Photo of Terri Kirwan, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CACII
Hosted by Terri Kirwan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CACII
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
If you are struggling with symptoms of PTSD, you don't need to suffer anymore! There is a powerful healing force that happens as you witness, and are witnessed, in the healing of trauma. This group takes a comprehensive approach to resolving trauma on physical, emotional and spiritual levels. I have combined the most powerful modalities for healing the affects that trauma has on your brain, body, and emotions so that you can experience the calm serenity that is your birthright! VISIT FOR MORE DETAILED INFO: https://comprehensivecounseling.net /groups/
(720) 966-1028 View (720) 966-1028
Supporting Our Unifying Passion: This group is meant to support LPC candidates towards fulfilling the hours requirement (100) 30 of which can be group supervision. We discuss case studies, interventions, and the importance of theory. I also offer support for building community and private practice.
Photo of Kathryn Raley, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, ACS
Hosted by Kathryn Raley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, ACS
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Supporting Our Unifying Passion: This group is meant to support LPC candidates towards fulfilling the hours requirement (100) 30 of which can be group supervision. We discuss case studies, interventions, and the importance of theory. I also offer support for building community and private practice.
(720) 575-1597 View (720) 575-1597
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
Photo of Karrah Bates, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by Karrah Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
(970) 788-3306 View (970) 788-3306
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
Photo of June Bianchi, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Hosted by June Bianchi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
Here at the Metis Center (https://www.metiscenter.net/) we wish to welcome people from all kinds of backgrounds and situations, including those who might be struggling with questions about their sexuality and spirituality. We want all of our guests and clients to feel comfortable. Our office is a nonjudgmental environment and a LGBTQA safe space. Please feel to reach out with any questions you might have about us, our therapy practice or the process of psychotherapy. We’re eager to hear from you!
(970) 592-4993 View (970) 592-4993
MESA offers TIY to help individuals reconnect with their bodies in a safe, supportive environment. Our classes focus on gentle movement, breathwork, and mindfulness, making them accessible to all experience levels—no prior yoga experience is required. Sessions are offered both in-person and online. $10 per class or $25 for all four sessions. Check our our website for more information and our Eventbrite to register. QR code in our profile photos.
Photo of Dana Rae Zione Vaughn - Moving to End Sexual Assault (MESA) , PhD
Hosted by Moving to End Sexual Assault (MESA)
Verified Verified
Group meets in Lafayette, CO 80026
MESA offers TIY to help individuals reconnect with their bodies in a safe, supportive environment. Our classes focus on gentle movement, breathwork, and mindfulness, making them accessible to all experience levels—no prior yoga experience is required. Sessions are offered both in-person and online. $10 per class or $25 for all four sessions. Check our our website for more information and our Eventbrite to register. QR code in our profile photos.
(970) 436-5667 View (970) 436-5667

See more therapy options for Lafayette

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Lafayette?

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.