Support Groups in Old Lyme, CT
This is a group format for MFT's or any clinician who is interested in the supervision process, it is a great format to share your clinical concerns, clinical expertise and self of the therapist.

Hosted by Liefeld & Associates Coaching and Psychotherapies
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT-AS, PhD, ERTY500
Group meets in Old Lyme, CT 06371
This is a group format for MFT's or any clinician who is interested in the supervision process, it is a great format to share your clinical concerns, clinical expertise and self of the therapist.
This virtual group focuses on creative journaling, (no artistic ability required). Group will use poetry, music, journal prompts to explore themes of self development and discovery. Groups can be requested if you want or have a group of people who want to participate we will run a group for you(5 person minimum) or you can call to join one of our rotating journal groups which run as long as we have 5 or more people . Materials required, mixed media paper/journal, markers,colored pencils, watercolors(school grade is fine) scissors, glue stick, and a permenant blue or black marker.

Hosted by Liefeld & Associates Coaching and Psychotherapies
Marriage & Family Therapist, RN, LMFT-AS, PhD, ERTY500
Group meets in Old Lyme, CT 06371
This virtual group focuses on creative journaling, (no artistic ability required). Group will use poetry, music, journal prompts to explore themes of self development and discovery. Groups can be requested if you want or have a group of people who want to participate we will run a group for you(5 person minimum) or you can call to join one of our rotating journal groups which run as long as we have 5 or more people . Materials required, mixed media paper/journal, markers,colored pencils, watercolors(school grade is fine) scissors, glue stick, and a permenant blue or black marker.

Hosted by Wade Lindsay Chartier
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC, CCTP
Group meets in Old Lyme, CT 06371
More Groups Nearby
Join us for an ongoing group focused on YOUR needs. Part psychoeducation, part therapy & coping, part peer support; offering a welcoming space to explore mental health, resilience, and personal well-being in a supportive, empowering environment. We’ll learn about topics like managing stress, emotional wellness, life transitions, illness, loss, loneliness, and more—providing tools for navigating uniques challenges for this life stage, with confidence. This is a working group, so expect a little bit of prep (maybe some reading or worksheets) now and then, but mostly we will learn from each other in real time. Refreshments will be available!

Hosted by Mindful Nature Counseling and Psychotherapy
Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA, C-NIP
Group meets in Guilford, CT 06437
Join us for an ongoing group focused on YOUR needs. Part psychoeducation, part therapy & coping, part peer support; offering a welcoming space to explore mental health, resilience, and personal well-being in a supportive, empowering environment. We’ll learn about topics like managing stress, emotional wellness, life transitions, illness, loss, loneliness, and more—providing tools for navigating uniques challenges for this life stage, with confidence. This is a working group, so expect a little bit of prep (maybe some reading or worksheets) now and then, but mostly we will learn from each other in real time. Refreshments will be available!
"Stepping Stones" Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 12:30 - 3:30 Optional academic support following program hours. 2418 Boston Post Road, Guilford, CT 06437. Thomas Allen, Ph.D. & Tori Piraino, LCSW. An evidence based cognitive-behavioral approach aimed at developing healthy coping strategies & building resilience. Adolescents will learn to face challenges & trust their ability to self-manage difficult emotions & behaviors. Our staff will work with patients, their families & outpatient therapists to facilitate an effective transition & establish a comprehensive support plan. To make a referral & arrange an initial phone screening, please contact 860.767.1277 ext.201 www.pathwaysct.com Thank you for your continued trust in Pathways.

Hosted by Pathways Center For Learning & Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Group meets in Guilford, CT 06437
"Stepping Stones" Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 12:30 - 3:30 Optional academic support following program hours. 2418 Boston Post Road, Guilford, CT 06437. Thomas Allen, Ph.D. & Tori Piraino, LCSW. An evidence based cognitive-behavioral approach aimed at developing healthy coping strategies & building resilience. Adolescents will learn to face challenges & trust their ability to self-manage difficult emotions & behaviors. Our staff will work with patients, their families & outpatient therapists to facilitate an effective transition & establish a comprehensive support plan. To make a referral & arrange an initial phone screening, please contact 860.767.1277 ext.201 www.pathwaysct.com Thank you for your continued trust in Pathways.
**INACTIVE** The goal of the group is to help women develop skills to deal with current life problems, which might be related to past trauma. The group is a psycho-educational group, which means there will be a topic every week with questions and an exercise. Please note: a minimum number of participants are required in order for this group to remain active. Contact Cara Bartlett, LCSW at (860-956-5354) with any questions and/or requests to join.

Hosted by Cara Elizabeth Bartlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Norwich, CT 06360
**INACTIVE** The goal of the group is to help women develop skills to deal with current life problems, which might be related to past trauma. The group is a psycho-educational group, which means there will be a topic every week with questions and an exercise. Please note: a minimum number of participants are required in order for this group to remain active. Contact Cara Bartlett, LCSW at (860-956-5354) with any questions and/or requests to join.
**INACTIVE** Social, emotional, behavioral skills building group. Participation available to clients engaged in treatment with a provider at New Beginnings Behavioral Health (some exceptions may be considered). *Please contact Cara Bartlett, LCSW at (860-956-5354) with any questions.

Hosted by Cara Elizabeth Bartlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Norwich, CT 06360
**INACTIVE** Social, emotional, behavioral skills building group. Participation available to clients engaged in treatment with a provider at New Beginnings Behavioral Health (some exceptions may be considered). *Please contact Cara Bartlett, LCSW at (860-956-5354) with any questions.
This group is for meets once a month for practicing therapists to learn more about the practical applications of Impact Therapy. A unique approach created by Dr. Ed Jacobs which is a brief, creative, multi-sensory and visual approach to using interventions with clients.

This group is for meets once a month for practicing therapists to learn more about the practical applications of Impact Therapy. A unique approach created by Dr. Ed Jacobs which is a brief, creative, multi-sensory and visual approach to using interventions with clients.
A coping skills group to help tweens and teens build strategies for managing emotions and behaviors. Learning objectives: • to identify and understand thinking patterns & emotions • to develop skills to manage strong emotions • to create personalized coping skills tool kits • to understand how to increase positive feelings and reduce negative feelings • to introduce the practice of mindfulness. Kid are placed by age and assessed for group appropriateness.

A coping skills group to help tweens and teens build strategies for managing emotions and behaviors. Learning objectives: • to identify and understand thinking patterns & emotions • to develop skills to manage strong emotions • to create personalized coping skills tool kits • to understand how to increase positive feelings and reduce negative feelings • to introduce the practice of mindfulness. Kid are placed by age and assessed for group appropriateness.
This free group is designed to lend support and resources to people and their loved ones that are battling cancer.

Hosted by Rhonda Spaziani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CHT
Group meets in Norwich, CT 06360
This free group is designed to lend support and resources to people and their loved ones that are battling cancer.
Educational group for creative artists to help support and educate the ideal of never giving up and being your most powerful creative self.

Hosted by Leesa Sklover
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC
Group meets in Guilford, CT 06437
Educational group for creative artists to help support and educate the ideal of never giving up and being your most powerful creative self.
**INACTIVE** "Free, anonymous, and confidential resources for EMS, Fire, Police, Military, Disaster Services, and Corrections stepping up to help each other. Peer Council Groups contain a mix of education and de-escalation techniques to relieve stress. We also have general wellness, mental health, and addiction resources available to you." President: Dennis Cole dennis@uniformedhelp.org https://www.uniformedhelp.org/ https://www.facebook.com/USPCCT/ Clinical Consultation/Support provided by New Beginnings Behavioral Health

Hosted by Cara Elizabeth Bartlett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Norwich, CT 06360
**INACTIVE** "Free, anonymous, and confidential resources for EMS, Fire, Police, Military, Disaster Services, and Corrections stepping up to help each other. Peer Council Groups contain a mix of education and de-escalation techniques to relieve stress. We also have general wellness, mental health, and addiction resources available to you." President: Dennis Cole dennis@uniformedhelp.org https://www.uniformedhelp.org/ https://www.facebook.com/USPCCT/ Clinical Consultation/Support provided by New Beginnings Behavioral Health
Our PEERS® certified Social Skills Specialists guide children and teens through once a week 90-minute group meetings while their parents meet in a separate group. During the 14 week program students and parents learn how to: Have meaningful conversations, Start and end conversations, Handle disagreements, Handle bullying, Be a good sport, Change a bad reputation, Appropriately use humor, Appropriately use technology for texting, calls, and emails, and more. If you are interested in joining our groups or learning more visit our website frankenbergerassociates.com or call 203-481-8476.

Hosted by Benjamin Backes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LADC, LCSW
Group meets in Branford, CT 06405
Our PEERS® certified Social Skills Specialists guide children and teens through once a week 90-minute group meetings while their parents meet in a separate group. During the 14 week program students and parents learn how to: Have meaningful conversations, Start and end conversations, Handle disagreements, Handle bullying, Be a good sport, Change a bad reputation, Appropriately use humor, Appropriately use technology for texting, calls, and emails, and more. If you are interested in joining our groups or learning more visit our website frankenbergerassociates.com or call 203-481-8476.
A vibrant group practice serving patients on the lifespan. We offer virtual and in person sessions here in North Haven, CT. Our providers have multiple specialties to meet the complex needs of the patients and community we serve.

Hosted by Shane Michael Mahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in North Haven, CT 06473
A vibrant group practice serving patients on the lifespan. We offer virtual and in person sessions here in North Haven, CT. Our providers have multiple specialties to meet the complex needs of the patients and community we serve.
The only group of its kind in the region, "Avoidance & Procrastination" is open to nice people who are caring about others, but find it difficult to ensure their own needs are met, especially when it comes to doing things that would be fulfilling. You may find it difficult to confront others, especially if it is about themselves, and so avoid doing so. Or, you may know there are things you should do, but you ***procrastinate***. At an affordable every four weeks, group members consistently remark of its value. (This group is facilitated by Sam Schaperow, MSMFT, LMFT).

The only group of its kind in the region, "Avoidance & Procrastination" is open to nice people who are caring about others, but find it difficult to ensure their own needs are met, especially when it comes to doing things that would be fulfilling. You may find it difficult to confront others, especially if it is about themselves, and so avoid doing so. Or, you may know there are things you should do, but you ***procrastinate***. At an affordable every four weeks, group members consistently remark of its value. (This group is facilitated by Sam Schaperow, MSMFT, LMFT).
no groups at this time

no groups at this time
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a treatment that helps people regulate their emotions. DBT is particularly helpful for those who are sensitive and suffering or who feel that their emotions are out of control. Participation in DBT Skills Groups like this one require concurrent individual therapy with a DBT therapist. We cover all four modules in about 18 weeks: these include Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness and Distress Tolerance. Group membership is limited to 8 people.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a treatment that helps people regulate their emotions. DBT is particularly helpful for those who are sensitive and suffering or who feel that their emotions are out of control. Participation in DBT Skills Groups like this one require concurrent individual therapy with a DBT therapist. We cover all four modules in about 18 weeks: these include Mindfulness, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness and Distress Tolerance. Group membership is limited to 8 people.
ROLLING ADMISSION, CALL NOW FOR INFO ON NEXT START DATE! Through structured skill presentation & written exercises, you will learn: #1: to observe & accept being in the moment (the now) without judgment; to re-focus your mind & attention by identifying your thoughts, feelings & behaviors that create difficulties in your life. #2: to interact with family, friends, co-workers, & bosses more effectively. #3: to manage (get through, deal with, accept) stressful situations effectively. #4: how emotions work, use coping skills to manage emotions & respond instead of reacting. A pre -group assessment is required. Participants must have an individual therapist and purchase workbook.

ROLLING ADMISSION, CALL NOW FOR INFO ON NEXT START DATE! Through structured skill presentation & written exercises, you will learn: #1: to observe & accept being in the moment (the now) without judgment; to re-focus your mind & attention by identifying your thoughts, feelings & behaviors that create difficulties in your life. #2: to interact with family, friends, co-workers, & bosses more effectively. #3: to manage (get through, deal with, accept) stressful situations effectively. #4: how emotions work, use coping skills to manage emotions & respond instead of reacting. A pre -group assessment is required. Participants must have an individual therapist and purchase workbook.
Small Group Support in Managing Life Transitions (break-ups, divorce, grief, aging, job or career change).

Small Group Support in Managing Life Transitions (break-ups, divorce, grief, aging, job or career change).
This group has a focus on emtional intelligence and its use in the advancement of personal relationships and career advancement. I also offer individual coaching and counseling as an adjunct to this psychoeducational group if requested.

This group has a focus on emtional intelligence and its use in the advancement of personal relationships and career advancement. I also offer individual coaching and counseling as an adjunct to this psychoeducational group if requested.
See more therapy options for Old Lyme
FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in Old Lyme?
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.