Support Groups in Cook County, IL

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Sometimes we just feel better when we can talk with other girls. This groups is designed to give students an outlet to talk about what is important to them and put it in perspective. This group will explore several topics: Cliques, peer pressure, self esteem, relationships and more!
Photo of Susan Henry - AASC For Help LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by AASC For Help LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Evanston, IL 60201
Sometimes we just feel better when we can talk with other girls. This groups is designed to give students an outlet to talk about what is important to them and put it in perspective. This group will explore several topics: Cliques, peer pressure, self esteem, relationships and more!
(847) 999-4757 View (847) 999-4757
This virtual 10 session support group will discuss different tools and techniques to better manage anxiety, in a safe and supportive environment. If you're interested, please contact me by 2/23/22 so that you can complete a screening questionnaire. The group is scheduled to begin at the end of February/early March.
Photo of Ayako Konno, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Ayako Konno
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60601
This virtual 10 session support group will discuss different tools and techniques to better manage anxiety, in a safe and supportive environment. If you're interested, please contact me by 2/23/22 so that you can complete a screening questionnaire. The group is scheduled to begin at the end of February/early March.
(312) 257-3730 View (312) 257-3730
In this group, we will: Explore emotions, thinking patterns and behaviors associated with the eating disorder; work toward accepting thoughts and feelings; find safe and meaningful ways to express ourselves; learn ways to foster a sense of connection and hope for lasting recovery. Individuals are welcome to join at any time, however, in an effort to create a safe and cohesive environment, we do ask that each member make a commitment to attend at least 6 out of the 8 weeks. For more information or to join this group, please contact lisa@alliumcounseling.com
Photo of Sarah Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, CEDS
Hosted by Sarah Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, CEDS
Group meets in Northfield, IL 60093
In this group, we will: Explore emotions, thinking patterns and behaviors associated with the eating disorder; work toward accepting thoughts and feelings; find safe and meaningful ways to express ourselves; learn ways to foster a sense of connection and hope for lasting recovery. Individuals are welcome to join at any time, however, in an effort to create a safe and cohesive environment, we do ask that each member make a commitment to attend at least 6 out of the 8 weeks. For more information or to join this group, please contact lisa@alliumcounseling.com
(224) 537-0977 View (224) 537-0977
Arcus Behavioral Health and Wellness (Arcus) is a 501(c)(3) community mental health agency established in 2017. Arcus provides counseling, psychotherapy, psychological testing, community education, and other mental health support to individuals, couples, families, and groups, both in-person as well as via telehealth throughout the state of Illinois.
Photo of Louis V. Haynes, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Louis V. Haynes
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60614
Arcus Behavioral Health and Wellness (Arcus) is a 501(c)(3) community mental health agency established in 2017. Arcus provides counseling, psychotherapy, psychological testing, community education, and other mental health support to individuals, couples, families, and groups, both in-person as well as via telehealth throughout the state of Illinois.
(773) 639-1094 View (773) 639-1094
You never expected or planned to become a full time caregiver to your partner or parent, and this shift often brings loneliness, anger, or loss. Role reversal can be scary and hard to navigate, as you take on new responsibilities while trying to plan for the future. The Caring for Caregivers group is a supportive space for you. Through this group, you will gain insight and support from group members, build connections with others who understand, and have a welcoming space to process the challenges of caregiving. We take Medicare, BCBS, Aetna, and UHC.
Photo of Anya Drew, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Anya Drew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60602
You never expected or planned to become a full time caregiver to your partner or parent, and this shift often brings loneliness, anger, or loss. Role reversal can be scary and hard to navigate, as you take on new responsibilities while trying to plan for the future. The Caring for Caregivers group is a supportive space for you. Through this group, you will gain insight and support from group members, build connections with others who understand, and have a welcoming space to process the challenges of caregiving. We take Medicare, BCBS, Aetna, and UHC.
(312) 883-9113 View (312) 883-9113
Explore self-healing modalities which are effective and profoundly liberating when combating the debilitating effects of anxiety. In this 8 week workshop, you will learn breath-work, meditation and gentle yoga movement techniques that help to break the psychological, biochemical, and physical cycles that keep anxiety in your life. The sessions include education related to what happens in your mind and body while experiencing anxiety, tools to "turn off" the fight or flight response, and "turn on" the relaxation response, acupuncture (optional) during an extended guided meditation, daily exercises/lifestyle suggestions, nutrition and aromatherapy.
Photo of Laura Dziekiewicz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TIYT, CYT-200
Hosted by Laura Dziekiewicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TIYT, CYT-200
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60613
Explore self-healing modalities which are effective and profoundly liberating when combating the debilitating effects of anxiety. In this 8 week workshop, you will learn breath-work, meditation and gentle yoga movement techniques that help to break the psychological, biochemical, and physical cycles that keep anxiety in your life. The sessions include education related to what happens in your mind and body while experiencing anxiety, tools to "turn off" the fight or flight response, and "turn on" the relaxation response, acupuncture (optional) during an extended guided meditation, daily exercises/lifestyle suggestions, nutrition and aromatherapy.
(773) 985-2836 View (773) 985-2836
A space where individuals with eating disorders can come together to feel understood, connected, and supported, because recovery happens in community! Oftentimes individuals with eating disorders feel lonely and isolated, and may not talk about their experiences due to fears of judgment, being misunderstood, or feeling evaluated or monitored. No formal diagnosis needed-if food or body stuff feels hard, you're welcome here! Open to individuals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, and Florida. Begins 9/18.
Photo of Tori Cherry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-C
Hosted by Tori Cherry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-C
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60613
A space where individuals with eating disorders can come together to feel understood, connected, and supported, because recovery happens in community! Oftentimes individuals with eating disorders feel lonely and isolated, and may not talk about their experiences due to fears of judgment, being misunderstood, or feeling evaluated or monitored. No formal diagnosis needed-if food or body stuff feels hard, you're welcome here! Open to individuals in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, and Florida. Begins 9/18.
(312) 561-9245 View (312) 561-9245
As women going through the challenging process of divorce, we meet every Monday at 6:30-8:00pm in the Barrington office to provide support, reflection and transformation. Divorce is a time of great loss and can eventually lead to a new beginning. Join this intimate group anytime by arranging a time for intake with Dr. Casey. This group is currently closed due to long term attendance and unity of it’s members.
Photo of Denise Casey, Psychologist, PsyD, CADC, NBCCHT
Hosted by Denise Casey
Psychologist, PsyD, CADC, NBCCHT
Group meets in Palatine, IL 60067
As women going through the challenging process of divorce, we meet every Monday at 6:30-8:00pm in the Barrington office to provide support, reflection and transformation. Divorce is a time of great loss and can eventually lead to a new beginning. Join this intimate group anytime by arranging a time for intake with Dr. Casey. This group is currently closed due to long term attendance and unity of it’s members.
(888) 265-6418 View (888) 265-6418
A safe, supportive space for BIPOC and LGBTQIA folks navigating substance use recovery. This 8-week virtual group offers community, psychoeducation, and skill-building with a focus on shared experiences and compassionate support. There are two groups being offered including a women's only group. Insurance is accepted or $25 per session if paying out of pocket.
Photo of Brenda Reavis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Brenda Reavis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60601
A safe, supportive space for BIPOC and LGBTQIA folks navigating substance use recovery. This 8-week virtual group offers community, psychoeducation, and skill-building with a focus on shared experiences and compassionate support. There are two groups being offered including a women's only group. Insurance is accepted or $25 per session if paying out of pocket.
(224) 204-0435 View (224) 204-0435
We provide safe & nurturing therapeutic services that are culturally & contextually aware, anti-oppressive, and focus on healing the whole person: emotionally, relationally, spiritually, & somatically.
Photo of Amanda Bull, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Hosted by Amanda Bull
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60647
We provide safe & nurturing therapeutic services that are culturally & contextually aware, anti-oppressive, and focus on healing the whole person: emotionally, relationally, spiritually, & somatically.
(773) 524-6493 View (773) 524-6493
Our Anger management groups are designed to help individuals to learn to recognize signs that you're becoming angry, and taking action to calm down and deal with the situation in a productive way. Anger is frequently a result of frustration, or of feeling blocked or thwarted from something the person feels is important. Anger can also be a defensive response to underlying fear or feelings of vulnerability or powerlessness. Groups are 8 weeks, 2 hours per session. There is a fee associated with this group.
Photo of Audra M Rowe - Solutions Counseling & Consulting Group, Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Hosted by Solutions Counseling & Consulting Group
Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60643
Our Anger management groups are designed to help individuals to learn to recognize signs that you're becoming angry, and taking action to calm down and deal with the situation in a productive way. Anger is frequently a result of frustration, or of feeling blocked or thwarted from something the person feels is important. Anger can also be a defensive response to underlying fear or feelings of vulnerability or powerlessness. Groups are 8 weeks, 2 hours per session. There is a fee associated with this group.
(872) 401-8897 View (872) 401-8897
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provides an opportunity to gain the skills necessary for identifying, experiencing and regulating emotions, in order to interact more effectively with ourselves and others. In this skills training group, discussions focus on managing emotions, learning to be more effective in relationships, and learning techniques for tolerating distress. The overall approach to therapy is called "dialectical" because it seeks balance between opposites--such as acceptance and change, validation and challenge, rigidity and flexibility. Underlying DBT is the practice of "mindfulness." Drawn from the Zen tradition of meditation, mindfulness is about attending to the moment, without judgment or impulsivity.
Photo of Katie Magrino, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Hosted by Katie Magrino
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60602
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) provides an opportunity to gain the skills necessary for identifying, experiencing and regulating emotions, in order to interact more effectively with ourselves and others. In this skills training group, discussions focus on managing emotions, learning to be more effective in relationships, and learning techniques for tolerating distress. The overall approach to therapy is called "dialectical" because it seeks balance between opposites--such as acceptance and change, validation and challenge, rigidity and flexibility. Underlying DBT is the practice of "mindfulness." Drawn from the Zen tradition of meditation, mindfulness is about attending to the moment, without judgment or impulsivity.
(773) 236-7921 View (773) 236-7921
Strengthen your child's social engagement and skills with the support of a Child Development Specialist and licensed therapist! Your child will learn and practice how to share ideas and solve problems together with same-aged peers, an essential aspect of social-emotional development for peer relationships. Your child will enhance coping skills, peer engagement, self-esteem, and self-regulation in a consistently fun, safe, and nurturing environment! They will address symptoms of ADHD, Autism, Sensory Processing, Anxiety, Developmental Delays, and more. The skills learned will help navigate each child's present world and prepare them for future endeavors.
Photo of Anna Basov - Center for Psychology & Wellness, Treatment Center, PsyD, LCPC
Hosted by Center for Psychology & Wellness
Treatment Center, PsyD, LCPC
Group meets in Northbrook, IL 60062
Strengthen your child's social engagement and skills with the support of a Child Development Specialist and licensed therapist! Your child will learn and practice how to share ideas and solve problems together with same-aged peers, an essential aspect of social-emotional development for peer relationships. Your child will enhance coping skills, peer engagement, self-esteem, and self-regulation in a consistently fun, safe, and nurturing environment! They will address symptoms of ADHD, Autism, Sensory Processing, Anxiety, Developmental Delays, and more. The skills learned will help navigate each child's present world and prepare them for future endeavors.
(224) 412-5694 View (224) 412-5694
Feel stuck? Let me help you move forward, fully unleash your creativity, passion and joy in this powerful, 12 week life-changing course, based on The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. It's not just for artists. You don't need to have "artistic" inclination, experience, or ability to be transformed by this course. You need only motivation, willingness to do the work and commitment to the process. In this class you will get support, accountability, momentum, habit forming behaviors, and a good push toward doing that thing you haven't been doing. And it's so much fun!!
Photo of Michel Rosenthal, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA, Coach
Hosted by Michel Rosenthal
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA, Coach
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60613
Feel stuck? Let me help you move forward, fully unleash your creativity, passion and joy in this powerful, 12 week life-changing course, based on The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron. It's not just for artists. You don't need to have "artistic" inclination, experience, or ability to be transformed by this course. You need only motivation, willingness to do the work and commitment to the process. In this class you will get support, accountability, momentum, habit forming behaviors, and a good push toward doing that thing you haven't been doing. And it's so much fun!!
(312) 970-0957 View (312) 970-0957
This group is designed for teens who have experienced the profound loss of a parent. Led by a compassionate therapist who personally experienced the loss of a parent as a teen, the group offers a safe and supportive space to connect with grief, share experiences, and navigate the challenges of loss. Teens will find comfort in building connections with peers who understand and discover tools to honor their unique journey. Together, they will explore ways to heal, grow, and find strength through shared understanding and support.
Photo of Taylor Karey, Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Hosted by Taylor Karey
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Group meets in Park Ridge, IL 60068
This group is designed for teens who have experienced the profound loss of a parent. Led by a compassionate therapist who personally experienced the loss of a parent as a teen, the group offers a safe and supportive space to connect with grief, share experiences, and navigate the challenges of loss. Teens will find comfort in building connections with peers who understand and discover tools to honor their unique journey. Together, they will explore ways to heal, grow, and find strength through shared understanding and support.
(224) 836-4345 View (224) 836-4345
As men, we tend to struggle with opening up to others about our feelings. When we do we often feel uncertain as to how to express ourselves or we worry we might be met with ridicule. This group will create an affirming environment for all men/male-identifying people looking to find ways to better express themselves. We will examine negative stereotypes of masculinity and discover helpful, positive behaviors to replace them. This virtual group will begin in January 2025.
Photo of Nicolas Kertesz, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Hosted by Nicolas Kertesz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60657
As men, we tend to struggle with opening up to others about our feelings. When we do we often feel uncertain as to how to express ourselves or we worry we might be met with ridicule. This group will create an affirming environment for all men/male-identifying people looking to find ways to better express themselves. We will examine negative stereotypes of masculinity and discover helpful, positive behaviors to replace them. This virtual group will begin in January 2025.
(773) 207-4065 View (773) 207-4065
This group is meant to be a safe space for adult women, non-binary people, and other marginalized genders (20+) who’ve recognized their ADHD later in life. Each participant has either received an ADHD diagnosis as an adult, OR they are currently exploring ADHD. Official diagnosis isn't required.
Photo of Millie Huckabee - Sage Therapy, Counselor
Hosted by Sage Therapy
Counselor
Group meets in Chicago, IL 60622
This group is meant to be a safe space for adult women, non-binary people, and other marginalized genders (20+) who’ve recognized their ADHD later in life. Each participant has either received an ADHD diagnosis as an adult, OR they are currently exploring ADHD. Official diagnosis isn't required.
(312) 313-7059 View (312) 313-7059
During this 4-evening course, you will learn: Strategies for dealing more effectively with your own thoughts & feelings and Approaches to understanding & influencing your children. At the end of this training, you will be more resourceful during stressful times. You will have a better understanding of yourself, your children & others. And you will have more ways to improve the quality of your family life & your relationships with others. Date: TBA (Wednesdays) RSVP: To reserve your place contact Pope John XXIII School at (847) 475-5678
Photo of Michael J Banks, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Michael J Banks
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Evanston, IL 60202
During this 4-evening course, you will learn: Strategies for dealing more effectively with your own thoughts & feelings and Approaches to understanding & influencing your children. At the end of this training, you will be more resourceful during stressful times. You will have a better understanding of yourself, your children & others. And you will have more ways to improve the quality of your family life & your relationships with others. Date: TBA (Wednesdays) RSVP: To reserve your place contact Pope John XXIII School at (847) 475-5678
(773) 312-3462 View (773) 312-3462
This is an ongoing group helping adults who are considering or going through divorce to gain perspective on the impact divorce has on children. We will cover topics including: * understanding divorce from your child's perspective * loyalty issues and the blame game * the absent parent * building two healthy homes * children and custody * the business of communication * mediation
Photo of Caralyn L. Graham, Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Hosted by Caralyn L. Graham
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Group meets in Northfield, IL 60093
This is an ongoing group helping adults who are considering or going through divorce to gain perspective on the impact divorce has on children. We will cover topics including: * understanding divorce from your child's perspective * loyalty issues and the blame game * the absent parent * building two healthy homes * children and custody * the business of communication * mediation
(847) 969-5121 View (847) 969-5121
We work with children, families and adults using a relational, psychodynamic model. This includes both play and talk therapy depending on the developmental age of the child and the emotional needs of the family system.
Photo of Susan Chen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Susan Chen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Skokie, IL 60077
We work with children, families and adults using a relational, psychodynamic model. This includes both play and talk therapy depending on the developmental age of the child and the emotional needs of the family system.
(872) 266-8559 View (872) 266-8559

See more therapy options for Cook County

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Cook County?

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.