Support Groups in District of Columbia

Learn to overcome anxiety by learning to trust yourself. Explore the Gifts of Grief by strengthening your personal spiritual beliefs. Cultivate secure relationships, and tap into Abundance Mindset. Email me for more info.
Photo of Moksha Living, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LGPC, LGSW
Hosted by Moksha Living
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LGPC, LGSW
Group meets in Washington, DC 20036
Whether you’re stuck in a job that drains your energy or in relationships that feel lonely on an existential level, deep down you want to live with more authenticity, direction, and purpose. You are ready to break free from patterns of unworthiness, anxiety, and (often subconscious) self-sabotage. If you want to wake up feeling more energized by your daily life, fulfilled by the work you do and surrounded by supportive communities, our specialized and holistic approach to psychotherapy, will equip you with a toolbox to turn emotional obstacles into powerful opportunities for growth and deeper connection.
(202) 915-2773 View (202) 915-2773
I run more than one group to meet needs of group members based on experiences and goals for group consultation. I work with clinicians at any level of experience looking for peer support, mentorship, enhancing clinical skills and considering ways to develop their career. If you are interested in how to start a private practice or improve your leadership skills, this is also the place for you. Bring a couple of colleagues and start your own group or ask if there is room in an existing one!
Photo of Maureen T. McGuire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Hosted by Maureen T. McGuire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Group meets in Washington, DC 20036
You may feel anxious, depressed, angry and you "can't get rid of" or change your feelings or thoughts. You may be looking for ways to find some relief from your stress, emotional pain or unwanted behavior. Life's disappointments, big and small can lead to great worry, overeating, drinking too much, feeling unmotivated, not wanting to get out of bed, or being irritable with loved ones; this often leads to feeling guilt and shame. For everyone, life's challenges, fears, losses, traumas and oppression in all forms, can impact our internal thoughts and feelings about ourselves in a variety of ways, you are not alone.
(202) 930-8083 View (202) 930-8083
Group therapy is an important element of how I work. Once we establish a trusting relationship in individual therapy, group therapy functions as a practical laboratory to try out new ways of relating in the world. This group functions as a safe space to explore, alongside one another, how we are perceived, how we behave in relationships, and how we can practice doing relationships differently in order to achieve more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.
Photo of Bridget L Burke, Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Hosted by Bridget L Burke
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Group meets in Washington, DC 20036
A psychotherapist and Licensed Professional Counselor, I received my Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The George Washington University. Prior to becoming a therapist I lived and worked in various countries in West Africa, Haiti, and the Middle East and bring a unique cross-cultural lens to my work. My specialty areas include anxiety, depression, people-pleasing, codependency, trauma, adult children of alcoholics, career issues, dating/relationship struggles, life transitions, and cultural identity development.
(202) 980-1420 View (202) 980-1420
Mixed gender process group that facilitates emotional awareness and self-assertion. Members learn to identify and articulate thoughts, feelings, and sensations in a way that fosters open communication and connectedness to others. By examining their interactions with others, members can carry those gains into their outside lives. This group includes some individuals who are active in recovery and are addressing, relationships, loss, and transition.
Photo of Billie Mitzner, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CACI, MBA
Hosted by Billie Mitzner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CACI, MBA
Group meets in Washington, DC 20036
I'm licensed in DC and Virginia. My work is with adults experiencing difficult transitions who are trying to cope with the resulting stressors and uncertainties. The goal is to build capacity, make and sustain changes that are meaningful: including changes/losses related to career, relationships and aging, new circumstances such as grief, sexuality, return to school, and retirement. I have expertise is in the treatment of issues related addiction/recovery, and the impact on family and significant others.
(202) 760-4673 View (202) 760-4673
Figuring out how you want to love and be loved? This group is a process group focused on seeking, exploring and building healthy relationships. Come join us in this safe and supportive space to create more positive relationships for yourself.
Photo of Mari Clemson-Hines, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Mari Clemson-Hines
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Washington, DC 20009
Please note: I am currently living abroad and have suspended my in person practice, but I am continuing to provide on-line therapy. You are unique so your therapy path should be too. If working on-line sounds like it would fit with your lifestyle and schedule please contact me and we can discuss if this is a good fit for you.
(415) 702-5649 View (415) 702-5649
This is a support group for adult siblings (or other close relatives) of people with serious mental illness (e.g., psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder). The group will be closed to allow members to develop trust, safety, and ongoing connection. Duration of group: 8-10 weeks beginning in February or March 2025. Location: ideally to be held in person in DC but virtual is an option. Cost: sliding scale $60-100/session. Please contact me at kate@klspsychotherapy.com or 240-774-0443 if you are interested in joining.
Photo of Kate L Stewart, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Kate L Stewart
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Washington, DC 20009
I value working with individuals from many different backgrounds, including folx from queer and trans communities, POC, and both college students and working adults. I’m a strong advocate for gender affirming health care. A significant focus of my work involves helping my clients to deepen their understanding of themselves and their relationships. With that understanding, I support you in making decisions that align with what you care about most.
(202) 933-5634 View (202) 933-5634
DBT skills training is an evidence-based treatment developed to assist individuals in changing behavioral, emotional, thinking, and interpersonal patterns associated with day-to-day problems. In the Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills class you will learn strategies to live in line with your values and goals, enhance your sense of self and relationships with others, build awareness and gain control over your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors and learn healthy ways to cope with stressors.
Photo of Dr. Ashley Alderette, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Dr. Ashley Alderette
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Washington, DC 20015
You are a high-achieving professional who, despite your successes, sometimes feels stuck or overwhelmed. You might be grappling with anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges and are searching for clarity, balance, and renewed purpose. You want a therapy approach that not only eases your immediate distress but also addresses deeper, underlying issues, empowering you to overcome internal barriers and unlock your full potential.
(561) 269-2363 View (561) 269-2363
This group open to all women with an emphasis on women of color between the ages of 23-35. Mind body skills groups are designed to help people transform the physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual dimensions of their lives to reduce and relieve stress, increase resistance to disease and create optimal health. Techniques such as meditation, guided imagery, autogenic training, biofeedback, movement, drawing, journaling and breath work are utilized to empower personal growth. Participants are expected to attend all six sessions. February 8th, 2020. Payment options are available, a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 8 participants.
Photo of Kimberly M Martin - Dr. Kimberly M. Martin, HSPP, LLC, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Dr. Kimberly M. Martin, HSPP, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Washington, DC 20003
Hello, I'm Dr. Kimberly, a clinical Psychologist and mind-body practitioner based in Washington, D.C. My ideal adult clients are 25 + and navigating major life transitions, stress, or mood disorders, seeking clarity, connection, and purpose. They value a collaborative, holistic approach and want tools to align their mind, body, and goals. They may seek support in building confidence, fostering self-awareness, improving relationships, or creating meaningful change in their personal and/or professional lives. My ideal client understands the investment involved in creating change in their life.
(202) 951-9942 View (202) 951-9942
This is a mixed group that focuses on reducing the restraining forces to the natural exploratory and developmental drive that we all have, to better reach our full potential.
Photo of Robert G Hartford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CSW, LSCP, EFT
Hosted by Robert G Hartford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, CSW, LSCP, EFT
Group meets in Washington, DC 20036
As the only Licensed Systems-Centered Therapist in the DC area, together we will explore how to get more of what you want. In a supportive, safe environment, you'll learn methods to reduce anxiety, depression and identify patterns that likely served you at one time but are no longer effective. Initially, sessions will be focused on: Exploring the issues that are important to you - determine goals you want to achieve. We will begin to develop trust, respect, and a personal connection so that you feel safe and understood. Also as a Certified EFT - Emotionally Focused Couples Therapist specializing in serving the LGBTQAI+ community.
(202) 600-8157 View (202) 600-8157
Photo of Krystal Ginzl, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC, CAC-I
Hosted by Krystal Ginzl
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC, CAC-I
Group meets in Washington, DC 20036
(202) 892-1145 View (202) 892-1145
A support group for new moms looking for comfort and calm amidst the chaos of the first year.
Photo of Sheryl Aaron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Hosted by Sheryl Aaron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Group meets in Washington, DC 20009
Whether you're struggling with relationships, navigating life transitions, feeling paralyzed by depression or anxiety, or trying to overcome trauma, I'd like to help you feel less stuck and more empowered to live a healthier, more meaningful life. Clients say they appreciate my warmth, humor and collaborative style as we tackle the sometimes difficult work of therapy as a team.
(202) 999-3386 View (202) 999-3386
The focus of the group is on the individuals within their relational contexts. The connection to self, friends, partners, and colleagues is the cornerstone of therapeutic inquiry.
Photo of Gloria Myers Beller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW
Hosted by Gloria Myers Beller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW
Group meets in Washington, DC 20007
It is my privilege to guide individuals, couples and groups to find their own way. You may experience vitality and despair, triumph and struggle, fulfillment and longing. However, when the "self" becomes impoverished it is vulnerable, emotionally scarred and injured. Are you self aware and in search of a deeper sense of self and the ultimate meaning of life?
(202) 559-0311 View (202) 559-0311
PACE groups meet for eight 2-hour sessions with a maximum of 12 moms and their babies (two weeks to five months old). All groups are held in a hybrid format, consisting of 4 in-person sessions and 4 virtual sessions. Every week we cover a different topic.
Photo of Karen Perkins Curtis, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Hosted by Karen Perkins Curtis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Group meets in Washington, DC 20017
My passion is helping families to adjust to significant life changes. Whether you are entering into marriage, welcoming a child into your family or realizing that it is time to refocus on your marriage, my goal is to help you strengthen and grow your family bond. Services include: PreMarital counseling, Marital Enrichment coaching, Perinatal Mental Health Support for moms AND dads (aiming to prevent or combat Postpartum Depression & Anxiety), hands-on parenting support including my direct observation & modeling.
(202) 455-6987 View (202) 455-6987
This individual psychotherapy group focuses on developing self awareness and self understanding. Getting feedback from the group therapists as well as the other group members on how we are experienced by others helps facilitate the development of one's relationship skills in the outside world. Building better relationships, both personally and in the workplace lead to a more successful and fulfilling life. Come and experience the value of a group psychotherapy experience
Photo of Robert G. Rosenblatt, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Robert G. Rosenblatt
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Washington, DC 20007
I have been providing individual, couples, and group psychotherapy for over 25 years. Typically, people enter therapy because they are having problems in their relationships. Successful psychotherapy must focus on helping develop more fulfilling and substantial interpersonal connections. Facilitating a client’s capacity to lead a richer and more emotionally balanced life is the objective. The therapeutic relationship is the road traveled, and enables the client to understand the choices they have made, the associated positive and negative consequences, and the freedom to make new, more effective and satisfying life decisions.
(202) 670-9937 View (202) 670-9937
Ongoing coed psychotherapy groups (Tues 7:45-9am; Weds 5:45-7pm; Thurs 12-1:15pm) where participants process all areas of relationships and their functioning in groups. The dialogue and process is supportive, intimate and intense and members learn how to better relate, assert themselves, share, work collaboratively, express feelings (including anger, sadness, and joy), set interpersonal boundaries and much more. Participants achieve healthier more gratifying relationships and better boundaries with partners, colleagues, family (children and parents) and friends.
Photo of Nicholas Kirsch, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Nicholas Kirsch
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Washington, DC 20009
In 35 years of practice, my peers have consistently recognized me in Washingtonian's "Best" therapists. I love my job; I get to connect deeply and personally with clients while the share the intense joy and pain of their paths to fuller lives. Therapy is a hero's journey involving courage, openness, and vulnerability as you work through shame, trauma, passivity, and dependencies. You take responsibility for bad habits, limitations and poor decisions. You take better care of yourself and loved ones, achieve goals, manage stressors, and grieve losses while improving relationships, job performance and decision making.
(202) 953-1447 View (202) 953-1447
(Insurance and Private Pay Accepted) This group aims to provide ongoing support for the collective grief most notably experienced after the 2024 election season, and the grief that comes from a rapidly changing culture and society. We will explore expanded definitions of grief and collective suffering, along with practical tools to help us navigate and hold space for what is. Examples of topics that may arise: Understanding Grief Grief & Gratitude, Embracing Grief, Challenging Shame, Rediscovering Self after Loss, Changes in Emotional Needs
Photo of Hilary Charles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Hosted by Hilary Charles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Group meets in Washington, DC 20005
Accepting new clients for Grief in Uncertain Times Group Only. As a therapist my goal is to serve as a guide to help you uncover your truth and empower you to live a full and expansive life. At Barth Therapy, I center QTPOC clients with the frameworks of collective liberation and love.  I work with clients around issues related to grief and loss, isolation, burnout, family dynamics, friends and relationships, and self and identity. The work we will do collaboratively will require vulnerability, awareness, and trust in the process as well as yourself.
(202) 417-2548 View (202) 417-2548
Professional organization.
Photo of Maureen Staley Cary - Maureen Cary, MS, MA, LMHC, Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC
Hosted by Maureen Cary, MS, MA, LMHC
Counselor, MS, MA, LMHC
Group meets in Washington, DC 20002
Finding someone who can help you independently manage life's challenges is an essential part of a good therapeutic partnership. My goal is to help you develop the insight necessary to truly understand yourself, your relationships and your life journey so you can deal with everyday setbacks or major life transitions. I will help guide you toward a path of resilience so you can move through difficult times while growing in positive ways.
(781) 786-7197 View (781) 786-7197
A comprehensive Anger Management program
Photo of Cleo McDuffie - Mind's Eye Psychological Services, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CAC-AD
Hosted by Mind's Eye Psychological Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CAC-AD
Group meets in Washington, DC 20001
Are you living your best life? Or are you experiencing the stress/anxiety, anger, lack of motivation, sadness, grief/loss, or low self-esteem/confidence that affects us all at some point? You are not alone. Now is the time for living up to your full potential. It takes courage to seek help but no one can truly live their best life without support. I am passionate about helping you to empower yourself and create "true" happiness in your life! I believe that we have the inherent capacity to heal ourselves. Let me show you how. Contact me today.
(202) 759-7992 View (202) 759-7992
This is a group for those who repeat familiar patterns but are unsure why and are uncertain how to change them. A process group is a "here and now" experience. If you've read the book, "Group", then you know what I mean. The group will be challenging and rewarding. Every member is a mirror for each other. The job of the facilitators is to maintain safety and trust. We combine CBT with psychodrama for a genuine growth experience.
Photo of Brian Gill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Hosted by Brian Gill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Group meets in Washington, DC 20009
You bring a desire to create change in your life and the willingness to explore how this may be possible. I am flexible on what you pay but not on the need for you to be committed to your own growth. Struggling with feeling stuck? Finding yourself repeating old patterns? Wanting to create change in your life? Then by all means give a call.
(202) 932-9340 View (202) 932-9340
We do not heal in isolation. Many people are turning to group therapy to make sense of the global health pandemic, racial injustices, and violence against women. It’s a lot to handle by yourself. Each meeting, we’ll get together for 90 minutes to center ourselves before initiating in communal dialogue to support and give feedback to one another. If you identify as a Black woman and know you’re in need of a space like this, join us virtually October 5th to December 14th on Wednesdays at 7:00pm-8:30pm (est). Space is limited to 8 members.
Photo of Afiya Mangum Mbilishaka, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Afiya Mangum Mbilishaka
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Washington, DC 20036
Feeling out of balance? Do things seem out of order in your life? Everyone needs a supportive space to process challenges of daily life and figure out how to cope with stress. I am dedicated to meeting the individual needs of each and every client, by developing a healthy relationship together and being an active listener to each client's unique story. My therapeutic approach is anchored in an integration of understanding how your past experiences have impacted your present situations, the healing aspects of telling your narrative, and finding solutions through a culturally meaningful lens.
(202) 601-4838 View (202) 601-4838
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See more therapy options for District of Columbia

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in District of Columbia?

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.