Support Groups in Bethesda, MD
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): a highly specialized form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) designed to help people with difficulties managing their emotions. In group, clients learn skills for better management of emotions, relationships, distress and focusing on the present moment. In conjunction with the group, clients in DBT attend once weekly individual therapy that is focused on applying the skills to their particular problems and goals. If a client has an existing individual therapist, the client would continue with their existing therapist, and we would collaborate on the skills.

Hosted by The Counseling Center of Maryland
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
The professionals at The Counseling Center of Maryland use a variety of techniques to help improve the quality of life for individuals, couples, groups, and families. Through our strength-based and collaborative approach, we offer new insights that enable our clients to see things from different perspectives. We provide treatment and counseling for anxiety, depression, grief, emotional regulation issues, self-esteem, relationship concerns, and parenting. Through active and evidence based strategies we help empower our clients to make choices that evoke positive changes in their lives. Together, we will look at feelings, thoughts and behaviors as vehicles to affirmative changes.
Group 1: Girls ages 9-11, Grow Yourself! begin to understand your inner emotional world a resource, create inner calm and acceptance through mindfulness and creative expression, feel more empowered to express your unique strengths and authentic sense of self by practicing self-care in a supportive group setting. You do not need to have any special talent or skills to be creative or to join this group. All that is required to join is the open-mindedness and the willingness to explore self-expression and creativity in a group setting.

Hosted by Kelly McCabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Hi there. If you are here it is likely that you are taking steps towards healing and self discovery. I want to commend your bravery in taking this step on your journey. As your therapist, I will be here to support you in the process of healing and growth and to hold space for you as you increase self awareness and compassion. We will collaborate to achieve your therapy goals. Perhaps you would like to improve interpersonal relationships, develop a self care plan to manage stress, or develop awareness into patterns of overthinking or self sabotage. I am here to support you on your journey.
Online Teletherapy Group: Rolling admission, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) skills training groups teach individuals to better manage emotions instead of being controlled by them; to better cope with stress; learn to get a long better with others; to become more accepting and to improve awareness of self and others. Individual group members may suffer from anxiety, depression, or low self esteem. They may also have a history of suicide attempts or thoughts, self harming behaviors and emotional upsets. College age-adulthood

Hosted by Cheryl D Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, MPA, CDWF
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
You're successful, yet exhausted by life. Self-acceptance is difficult. You're secretly miserable and want a better life. You want healthy relationships, yet your efforts have not worked. You are tired of negative feelings and shame and are motivated to make positive changes. If you want to improve your life in the face of painful doubt, I am here to help. You'll feel safe, supported and not judged. You and I will work together as a team, in a solution focused way, to help you better understand your challenges and to create a great life. Why suffer another day? Please email me! I have limited openings 1 on 1 and group is open!
In-person five week educational and experiential group for adults who are feeling overwhelmed, uneasy and struggling to manage parts of their everyday lives. The focus of our group is to create a space where participants will work to feel more grounded, self compassionate and at ease with themselves. Participants will learn how the brain responds to stress, the mind body connection, and tools such as journaling, art, and meditation. This group is not a drop in as sessions will build from the last. Dates: 10/12/23, 10/19/23, 10/26/23, 11/2/23, 11/9/23, total cost $375

Hosted by Ellen Burgess
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
I strive to offer a warm, supportive environment for people to explore their concerns, develop greater self-awareness, and learn new ways of coping in the world. I take a collaborative and active role in helping clients to identify and build a more authentic and purposeful life.
Does your partner hint that therapy might be good for you? It's a common suggestion, not a critique. It's because those who love us often see our potential before we do. This is a space for young men who are ready to expand their emotional toolkit, develop self-awareness, & improve the way they engage in relationships. Understanding yourself better means you're equipped to build stronger, healthier relationships. It's not just about responding to your partner's suggestion—it's about taking control of your personal development and becoming the partner, friend, & person you aspire to be.

Hosted by Brittany LaFleur
Counselor, MS, LCPC-S, RPT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Brittany LaFleur is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Supervisor (LCPC-S) with a deep passion for aiding individuals in their journey towards becoming their best selves, hence why she started Your Best Self therapeutic services in 2018. Brittany creates a safe & confidential space to guide clients’ exploration of their inner worlds. She has a dynamic, compassionate & direct style of connecting with clients and leads a team of several other talented therapists.
People seek out therapy for many different reasons. You may be seeking a therapist to help you through a difficult time or to help you strengthen your relationship with your significant other. Maybe you are struggling with the challenges of raising an adolescent and need the support to improve trust and communication at home. Or maybe still you are worried about your child and are looking to help them learn healthy coping or healthy decision making skills. No matter the reason, Family Therapy Center of Bethesda, LLC can help you!

Hosted by Katelyn Alcamo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Are you worried that your child is anxious, depressed or having difficulty navigating peer relationships? Are you struggling with parenting a teenager? Do you feel disconnected from your partner and find yourself wondering where the passion went? Relationships can be both the most rewarding and most challenging aspects of our lives. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am specially trained to work with children, couples, and families. I provide a safe and supportive place where you are empowered to reach your personal and relationship goals. Together we can help you find balance, enrichment, and happiness in your life.
An ongoing affirming therapy group for teens, 14-18, who identify as transgender, bigender, gender fluid, gender queer, and others who consider themselves non-binary or transitioning. We explore gender identity in a safe and supportive environment where related and unrelated issues can also be discussed. This group is part of our Gender Wellness Clinic. Entrance requires a multidisciplinary intake evaluation and a weekly commitment. Ask about our other groups including parent support groups.

Hosted by Jessica Moore Simon
Psychologist, PsyD, LCPAT
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Not currently taking new individual patients. Dr. Jessica Simon is a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Creative Arts Therapist practicing since 2003. She received her Master's in Creative Arts Therapy from Pratt Institute, and her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the George Washington University. She believes that everyone is unique and deserves an individualized treatment plan, and that psychotherapy is both an art and a science. She utilizes curiosity, self-awareness, creativity and humor to promote personal growth and healing. Respect for individual differences and all aspects of diversity is a cornerstone of her practice.
A DBT multifamily group brings together adolescents and their parents or caregivers to learn and practice Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills. The group focuses on building emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness for both teens and their families. By learning these skills together, families can better understand each other’s experiences, improve communication, and reduce conflicts. Led by a trained therapist, the group fosters a collaborative, supportive environment where families can address challenges collectively, strengthen relationships, and create a healthier dynamic at home. The shared learning process promotes accountability, connection, and growth for both teens and parents.

Hosted by Brooke Shafer
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Winner of the Best of Bethesda Magazine in the Child/Adolescent Therapist Category! In the modern world, we are facing more difficulties than ever before. Are you struggling from depression, anxiety, self-harm, suicidal ideation, identity exploration, or dysregulated behavior? I specialize in working with children and adolescents, especially around the middle school years, and their parents in order to improve mood and self-regulation and promote positive family interactions and communication.
www.washingtonnutritionandcounseling.com

Hosted by Cassandra Edwards
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20817
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or anger? Have you experienced substance use, marriage conflict, or difficult relationships in your family? Do you need help addressing an eating disorder? It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help – and I respect that courage. Together, we will work to discover your strengths, and I can help you leverage those strengths to build coping skills that will help you in everyday life. We will tailor therapy to your needs and goals, drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and your own experiences.
In group therapy, a small number of people (5-9) meet together weekly to work on ways to improve the quality of their lives and on how to get more from interpersonal relationships. Group members have said that being in group has helped them to learn how to get along better with people; to better understand themselves; and get more of their wants and needs met in a healthy way. When group members discuss personal feelings, ideas, and dilemmas with one another, the resulting exchanges help uncover dysfunctional patterns and open opportunities for significant change.

Hosted by Len Guedalia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Individuals, families and couples realize, at some time, they need assistance to effectively deal with overwhelming life events, strained relationships, loss, anger, and life transitions. For over 20 years I have successfully helped people break self-defeating, unfulfilling patterns of relating and behaving so they can experience more joy, happiness and success in their personal and professional lives. I use a blend of psychodynamic, cognitive, behavioral and family systems therapy. My clients find me to be a very direct, open and engaging therapist, who provides safe space for even the most difficult issues and conflicts to be addressed and resolved.
Private outpatient practice. Appointments available. Specializing in evidence based approaches to treating anxiety and mood disorders with and without medication

Hosted by Alok Rawat
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
My name is Dr. Alok Rawat. I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a focus on helping people with anxiety, depression, and mood/bipolar disorders, serving the Bethesda/Chevy Chase/Kensington, Maryland area as well as the Ellicott City/Columbia, Maryland area. I specialize in life-coaching and helping you find a better balance in your life, especially for busy professionals who want a goal-oriented approach to psychiatry. My interventions are evidence-based and time limited. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as life-coaching and motivational techniques, I also provide medication management where indicated.
Weekly group that teaches DBT skills to teens (average age 12-15). Can be comprehensive DBT and can be strictly skills based depending on need of group member. Group is supportive, structured, and skills-based with space for processing.

Hosted by Emily L Rizzo
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQ population and with people from diverse cultural backgrounds. I consistently work with clients regarding depression, anxiety, motivation, trauma, grief, understanding their identity, familial relations, gender identity, sexual identity, sexual/relationship needs, polyamorous relationships, kink, communication in relationships, and self-integration. Extensive background in working with people of color. Assist parents/families through their child's gender transition. Experience in college counseling and high school counseling.
We offer DBT skills and process psychotherapy groups for teens and young adults. Groups are open to new members throughout the year.

Hosted by Metropolitan Counseling Associates
Treatment Center, LCSW-C, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Metropolitan Counseling Associates is an interdisciplinary practice that provides comprehensive evaluation, treatment, educational and community based services for children, adolescents, and adults. Our mission is to offer our clients access to a wide range of outstanding mental health and educational services in a single collaborative environment. What began as a shared philosophy of practice is now a thriving mental health system that has helped thousands of individuals and families heal and create sustainable change.
With a co-therapist, I lead a number of mixed groups that meet weekly. Group therapy offers opportunities for profound insight, help with life problems, gaining a view of your true self, and practice connecting in a real way with others.

Hosted by Kristin Staroba LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Each of us arrives at a moment when we need help. Relationships, work, health, family, money, dreams for the future or pain from the past--all impact our self-image, mood, and energy.
Maybe now you've hit a bump in the road. Perhaps past events and feelings are getting in your way. Or you feel ready to make some changes.
As a therapist, I join practiced clinical skills with empathic warmth. I see therapy as a process in which we learn from the past so you can make more satisfying choices now--creating a fulfilling future.
The Dialectical Behavior Therapy (or DBT) group is a structured open group with a focus on specific skills in four primary modules: Mindfulness skills; Interpersonal effectiveness skills; Emotion regulation skills; and Distress tolerance skills.

Hosted by Victoria Mwongela
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MSc, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
I help people when life is not going the way they expected. I work with individuals and groups as they navigate issues like anxiety, questions of identity and faith, relationships, conflict and depression. Since earning my Masters at Johns Hopkins University, I have been committed to providing quality services to all my clients. As a therapist, I am inspired by the techniques introduced through CBT, DBT, Existential and Client-Centered theorists.
This group is geared towards clients who have completed the 4 Modules of an Adult DBT Skills Group and who are looking to continue to enhance their Mindfulness practice, learn new skills and strengthen their existing coping skills in a supportive group environment. Please call 240-394-8070 for additional information

Hosted by Mary Carlough
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Taking that first step towards seeking support and selecting the right therapist can be daunting. If you're looking to work with a warm, compassionate and effective therapist I welcome you to learn more about me, my therapeutic approaches and practice. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive therapeutic space in which you can share your feelings, gain insight, and learn strategies to cope with loss, life transitions, relationship difficulties, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, failure to launch, family or work challenges. I provide individual, couples, family and group therapy.
www.washingtonnutritionandcounseling.com

Hosted by Bentley Noland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20817
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, biploar disorder, or have experienced trauma? Have you self-medicated in an attempt to manage your emotions? You can expect supportive, practical help in overcoming trauma, the treatment of mood disorders, and recovery from substance abuse and behavioral addictions. Therapy will be tailored to your needs, using the tools that work best for you, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Restructuring (a core technique from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and learning stress reduction skills. In therapy, you can build lasting alternatives to unhealthy family dynamics.
This Black Women's Support Group is an 8-week group provides a supportive and safe space where Black women can process their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. This telehealth group addresses the unique mental health needs of Black women, fostering a confidential space of community, empowerment, and healing. The sessions encourage open dialogue about topics such as political stress, systemic racism/sexism, ethnic/racial identity, motherhood, self-care, and personal growth. Participants will benefit from mutual support, understanding, and strategies to enhance their well-being and resilience. Days/times will be based on clients' availability.

Hosted by Dr. Tanya M Nichols
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
I help stressed and overwhelmed professionals and teens who look like they have it all together on the outside but may have a few things bothering them on the inside. You might be the person who everyone goes to for support and advice, but when you share your concerns, it's not taken as seriously by your family or friends. This may leave you feeling anxious, frustrated, depressed, and isolated despite crushing it at work, school, or when leading others. Maybe you are a teen, spouse/partner, parent, healthcare provider, or clergy who has current or past stressors that are weighing you down or leaving you feeling out of sorts.
This group will explore the challenges and pressures that teen boys experience as they develop into men. Each week, a new topic will be introduced and discussed in an open forum mixed with psychoeducation and other educational experiences. Topics will include body image, social media, vulnerability, societal messaging, what it means to be a "man", and more.

Hosted by Ben Endres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
There are many reasons why people make the choice to seek out therapy. Sometimes that reason isn't obvious and you might just feel "off", or maybe you've recognized patterns in your life that you'd like to interrupt but aren't quite sure how. Whatever your reason is, it is valid and important, and I would be honored to work through it with you. My experience thus far has centered around helping adolescents and adults navigate eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, body image distress, relationship issues, healthy masculinity development, and emotion regulation, in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
This 8 week social anxiety and skills group is facilitated by Kellie Olive, LMSW, and provides an interactive and safe space for young people (ages 11 - 14) to express ongoing life stressors, recognize anxiety and become part of a community that encourages positive social interactions. Topics will include self-care skill building, how to navigate arguments and disagreements, how to handle in-person and online bullying, how to enhance conversational skills and how to initiate get-togethers with friends.

Hosted by Ellie Mental Health - Bethesda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Group meets in Bethesda, MD 20814
Ellie Mental Health is all about being authentic while providing a safe, compassionate and inviting space for our clients. We strive to provide exceptional ethical, compassionate care that meets people where they are, demonstrates empathy and recognizes whole person care.
See more therapy options for Bethesda
FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in Bethesda?
Search for nearby support groups by inputting your city, zip code, or the name of the group into the search bar. From there, you can filter to find a group that suits your needs, whether you are looking for support for a teenager, a group that focuses on a specific issue, such as depression, or a particular program type, such as one geared toward developing social skills. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
How does group therapy work?
Therapy groups are led by one or more therapists and serve to help people process their experiences and learn from others who understand their challenges firsthand. They can be based on a specific issue, such as addiction, grief, physical illnesses, parenting, and caregiving. They can involve a specific type of program or therapy, such as a social skills group or CBT group. They can also be specific to a particular population or community, such as teens or LGBTQ.
Support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous, also focus on a specific issue, but are typically led by members with lived experiences and are less structured than therapy groups. Most therapy groups will meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.
Support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous, also focus on a specific issue, but are typically led by members with lived experiences and are less structured than therapy groups. Most therapy groups will meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.
What are the benefits of group therapy?
Support groups help connect people with shared challenges or physical and mental health conditions. In a group setting, participants can receive support and feedback from peers and can acquire new skills, strategies and perspectives by listening to one another. Discussing your experience with someone who also has a cancer diagnosis, or whose son also struggles with addiction, for example, can help you feel less alone, reduce distress, find empathy and connection, and learn practical or medical information that has helped others. Group therapy can also be a more affordable option than individual therapy and just as effective.
Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy?
Support groups can be deeply valuable for both emotional support and/or treatment outcomes. It’s difficult to make a blanket statement on efficacy due to the many different types of support groups and conditions treated, but group therapy has been found to be just as effective as individual therapy in establishing long-term abstinence for conditions such as substance abuse, addiction and alcohol abuse.
How much does group therapy cost?
Group counseling is typically less expensive than individual counseling, with each session costing on average between $60 to $75. Meanwhile, individual therapy sessions can run anywhere from $100 to $200 and up, even after insurance. It is possible to find low-cost group therapy options and many therapists offer group sessions free of charge.
Does insurance cover group therapy?
As with individual therapy, many insurance companies do offer coverage for group therapy sessions. However, the coverage varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider. Individuals are encouraged to check with their insurance providers to verify coverage.
How long does group therapy last?
The length of a support group session is often one hour but can fall anywhere between 45 minutes and two hours. The amount of time that people remain in a support group varies based on their specific needs and goals and the type of therapy. Some individuals may seek a shorter-term group, such as a bereavement group, that may last between six and 20 weeks. Some may seek a longer-term group that lasts for a year or indefinitely.
What are the limitations of support groups?
Support groups have many benefits, but there are a few limitations as well. Support groups do not constitute formal therapeutic or medical treatment, and are not run by licensed mental health professionals, so some people may opt for group therapy or individual therapy instead. Additionally, support groups can depend on the other participants, so a disruptive individual has the potential to mar the group dynamic, and the anecdotal information shared may sometimes be unhelpful or inaccurate. Because it is a group setting, confidentiality can be more difficult to guard and participants receive less personalized attention than they would in an individual therapy session.