Support Groups in Independence, MO
We believe group treatment helps people connect with others and build lifelong skills. At Charlie Health, our curated groups include CBT Groups, CFT Groups, DBT Skills Groups, ACT Groups, Experiential Therapy Groups, Processing Groups, Trauma Groups, and more. Clients meet in groups three times per week, with each day focusing on new processing and emotional awareness skills. We also have specific groups for veterans, new moms, neurodivergent individuals, BIPOC individuals, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-mo
Parenting can be rewarding and stressful. Know you are not alone! Relax and connect with other parents, grandparents or guardians in a stress free environment. This group will help you increase your knowledge of child development with topics focusing on children of all ages. Learn how to regulate your own emotions so that you can show up as your best self for those you care for. In this group you will learn positive parenting strategies, gain feedback from others in the group, and learn about resources in the community to support you in your lifelong parenting journey.

Hosted by Melinda Bonham Couple And Family Therapist
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Independence, MO 64050
Do you live in a constant sense of disconnection-no matter what you do, things never feel quite "okay?" Do you feel controlled by your emotions, overwhelmed by the pressure to accomplish? Does past trauma impact how you show up daily? Has this snowballed into a constant sense of anxiety, stress, and disappointment? Is your self-care and relationships struggling also? Do communication breakdowns and conflict feel like the norm? Do you feel frustrated by the disconnection that has emerged in your life, and it is hard to know how to break the cycle? There is a way to ask for what you need without sacrificing your own boundaries.
This virtual group is for adult men and women whose history includes sexual and physical abuse prior to age 16. The effects of early childhood abuse are frequently felt and responded to into adulthood and until dealt with in a professional, reconstructive manner. This group is a semi-closed group, meaning members are interviewed and identified as appropriate by the therapist before admission to group. New members may be added during the life of this open-ended group. Assessment is two to four individual sessions prior to group admission to determine the fit for this group. Please email me.

Hosted by Sharon E Wilburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Independence, MO 64050
For the past 22 years, I have worked with many clients who have experienced trauma from childhood, sexual abuse, combat, and other personal loss. Most people come to find peace of mind and relief from the nightmares rooted in the past. Together, we work on the reality that they are survivors and their resilience is amazing! My clients learn that they have always been their own greatest strength and are their own best advocates throughout this maze of bewildering emotional turmoil. They discover that they are indeed strong survivors as they strive toward the goal of wholeness.
Looking to jump start your personal growth, gain new perspectives, find your safe space, or just need a sounding board? Our Dual Diagnosis support groups are for anyone with a mental health and/or substance abuse diagnosis. A support group can be effective as a standalone treatment or paired with individual therapy. For some, adding a weekly support group as part of their treatment plan can increase positive outcomes in therapy. In other words, you will feel better faster! The group is facilitated by a skilled Certified Peer Specialist experienced in creating a therapeutic environment..

Hosted by Laurie L Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, CCATP, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Group meets in Independence, MO 64050
I believe that all humans have a resilient spirit which allows them to overcome any obstacle before them. Sometimes we forget who we are or perhaps we never fully knew. Maybe we felt we were never able to be our authentic selves. It's possible we think there's something wrong with us or we're broken. Or is it that we struggle to manage mental health symptoms and we become emotionally deregulated and filled with shame? Maybe you think that you have gone to far and there is no hope for you. You are not alone. I have helped countless people with stories like these and many more. What ever it is that is holding you back, I can help.
This is a free education and support group for women trying to heal from trauma due to a partner's sexual betrayal behaviors (pornography, infidelity/affairs, etc.). Currently, the group is only offered virtually. It runs two times a year with groups starting in January and September. Please visit MyWholeheartedTherapy.com and click the "Betrayal Trauma Support" tab for more information or to register. The course does require purchase of a copy of the book Treating Trauma from Sexual Betrayal which is about $18 on Amazon.

Hosted by Sharree Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS-MFT, PLMFT, CCPS, ERCEM
Verified Verified
Group meets in Independence, MO 64050
You are here looking for a therapist because something in you knows it is time for change. Whether that change is just for you or within your relationships... whether it is old stuff you "should be over," new stuff that is just hitting, or another combination of life's challenges... I'm here, ready to walk through it with you. Just showing up here is the first courageous step. Let's take the next step together. Schedule a free consultation call today to see if we are a good fit. Please note: In order to provide you with personalized & flexible therapy, I do not accept insurance. I do accept HSA, Debit, & Credit Cards.
This is a long-term support course for individuals & groups (men's and women's groups available) experiencing trauma due to betrayal from a partner's sexual acting out behaviors (infidelity, affairs, pornography use, sex addiction). We meet online for 50 minutes weekly in addition to personal application work completed on your own. Course content is intended to take about 8 months to complete. Group rate: $50/session. Individual rate: $75/session. Visit MyWholeheartedTherapy.com/ betrayal-trauma-support to register. Join anytime, stay as long as it is beneficial for you!

Hosted by Sharree Jensen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS-MFT, PLMFT, CCPS, ERCEM
Verified Verified
Group meets in Independence, MO 64050
You are here looking for a therapist because something in you knows it is time for change. Whether that change is just for you or within your relationships... whether it is old stuff you "should be over," new stuff that is just hitting, or another combination of life's challenges... I'm here, ready to walk through it with you. Just showing up here is the first courageous step. Let's take the next step together. Schedule a free consultation call today to see if we are a good fit. Please note: In order to provide you with personalized & flexible therapy, I do not accept insurance. I do accept HSA, Debit, & Credit Cards.
Does your child struggle with social skills? Does your child feel as though they don't fit in? We know teenage years can be difficult for everyone and for some kids it can be painful and hard. If this sounds familiar than this group is for your child. This group has a fun atmosphere and is geared for tweens and teens. This will be a place where they can show up as themselves and learn to create positive connections with others and grow their self awareness and self acceptance.

Hosted by Melinda Bonham Couple And Family Therapist
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Independence, MO 64050
Do you live in a constant sense of disconnection-no matter what you do, things never feel quite "okay?" Do you feel controlled by your emotions, overwhelmed by the pressure to accomplish? Does past trauma impact how you show up daily? Has this snowballed into a constant sense of anxiety, stress, and disappointment? Is your self-care and relationships struggling also? Do communication breakdowns and conflict feel like the norm? Do you feel frustrated by the disconnection that has emerged in your life, and it is hard to know how to break the cycle? There is a way to ask for what you need without sacrificing your own boundaries.
Not sure you are ready to dive into individual therapy? Group therapy is the perfect start! Join an introductory online group limited to 10 members. Explore what therapy can do for you.

Hosted by Melinda Bonham Couple And Family Therapist
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Group meets in Independence, MO 64050
Do you live in a constant sense of disconnection-no matter what you do, things never feel quite "okay?" Do you feel controlled by your emotions, overwhelmed by the pressure to accomplish? Does past trauma impact how you show up daily? Has this snowballed into a constant sense of anxiety, stress, and disappointment? Is your self-care and relationships struggling also? Do communication breakdowns and conflict feel like the norm? Do you feel frustrated by the disconnection that has emerged in your life, and it is hard to know how to break the cycle? There is a way to ask for what you need without sacrificing your own boundaries.
More Groups Nearby
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a skills-focused group to help clients learn skills in the following areas: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. Originally developed for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder, it is also beneficial for anyone struggling with difficulty managing their emotions, impulsive behaviors, unhealthy coping skills, and relationship issues. We offer 3 groups for clients to choose from: Tuesdays-12:00-1:30 pm and 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm Wednesdays-5:00 pm-6:30 pm. Facilitated by Kindra Jackel
Hosted by Brookside Counseling DBT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64110
Brookside Counseling offers a comprehensive DBT program serving both adolescents and adults. DBT includes structured individual therapy, weekly group skills training and access to phone skills coaching. Our DBT trained therapists have extensive experience facilitating DBT therapy.
Using cognitive-behavioral therapy to assist clients with identifying the underlying thoughts and situations creating and exacerbating their depression and anxiety, and then developing the cognitive and behavioral tools for managing the anxiety and depression. This group also focuses on how women are uniquely impacted by anxiety and depression. It is both a psychotherapy and psychoeducational group.

Hosted by Cognitions: Anxiety/Depression Treatment Services
Not Verified Not Verified
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64111
Adolescent and adult clients seeking group treatment for depression, adjustment disorders and anxiety (generalized anxiety, social anxiety etc.).
Welcome to my private practice, located in Lees Summit, MO. I specialize in treating PTSD, and I am trained in EMDR; however, I also treat a number of other issues (anxiety, depression, life events, etc).

Hosted by Rick Aldred
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Lees Summit, MO 64086
As a military veteran, I have a passion for the military and first responder communities. I am also passionate about providing clinical Christian counseling to those who have a faith background. I became a counselor as a result of my personal journey with counseling, and it is my desire to use my life experiences to build empathy and connect with my clients in a meaningful way.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a skills-focused group to help clients learn skills in the following areas: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness. Originally developed for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder, it is also beneficial for anyone struggling with difficulty managing their emotions, impulsive behaviors, unhealthy coping skills, and relationship issues.

Hosted by Kindra Jackel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64110
One of my joys in life is witnessing growth and change. And being part of another's journey is an honor and privilege. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, and difficulty managing emotions. In addition, I enjoy helping clients with career and phase of life issues.
Guided by Stacy Braiuca, a Certified Master in NLP and MER, "Anxiety Busters 101" is a transformative group therapy designed for resilience-building during life's transitions. Stacy seamlessly combines NLP and MER/Timeline techniques with the well-established methods of CBT and Motivational Interviewing. The result? A therapeutic blend that dives deep into emotional patterns, reshaping negative thought processes, and fueling positive behavior change. The group setting amplifies the experience, as participants forge connections, share challenges, and find collective strength. With Stacy's expertise, uncover a community-driven approach to mastering life's twists with support and shared insight.

Hosted by Stacy Braiuca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, NLP, MER, Hypno
Verified Verified
Group meets in Raytown, MO 64133
Hi! I’m Stacy Braiuca, a Licensed Clinical Therapist (LCSW, LSCSW) and certified Master Practitioner in Neuro-Linguistic Programming, Hypnosis, and Mental Emotional Release.
I provide EMDR Consultation in person and via telephone. Contact me to ask about the scheduling options.

Hosted by Judy Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, BSN, RN, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Lees Summit, MO 64064
I provide a warm, safe and confidential environment for people to explore life's challenges to create positive changes and healing in their life. I focus on client strengths and their goals, and provide strategies for handling conflict, communication, anxiety, and problem-solving.
Eating disorders impact men differently yet, many men treat it like a secret and don't get the help they deserve. Despite eating disorders being gender neutral, they are often missed in males for a variety of reasons. Moreover, it's a common experiences for males with an eating disorder to experience social stigma and made to feel like they don't really have a problem. Join other men during an 8-week recovery group where together, you'll address how the eating problem is impacting you and problem-solve together.

Hosted by Michael Nobo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64110
Are you grappling with the difficulties posed by an eating disorder, yearning for change and open to therapeutic support? My name is Michael and I specialize in helping adults overcome their eating disorder. Recognizing the intimate connection between movement, food, and sleep with mental health, I'm here to provide guidance and get this moving in the right direction. Let's connect for a 15-min consult and embark on a path toward a more balanced, and healthier life.
This adults-only therapeutic tabletop role-playing group uses Kids on Bikes—a collaborative storytelling game similar to Dungeons & Dragons, but easier to learn and focused on creativity, connection, and personal growth. In this supportive space, adults explore identity, build social skills, practice problem-solving, and develop emotional resilience through shared storytelling and teamwork. No previous gaming experience is needed—just bring your curiosity and imagination! Whether you’re looking to boost confidence, improve communication, or try something new in a fun and affirming environment, this group offers a unique and engaging therapeutic experience. Limited spots available.

Hosted by Darbi Keene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, TATTRPG
Verified Verified
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64111
NOW offering ADULT autism and ADHD assessments. Are you LGBTQ, chronically ill, or Neurodivergent and seeking a therapist who understands the nuance involved in those identities? Are you working hard to break generational cycles? Do you want to learn distress tolerance skills for those moments where it feels like the overwhelming emotions you experience are a dangerous tidal wave about to crash around you? Have you discovered how overstimulating parenting is and need support? Do you need a creative approach to therapy and love the idea of gamifying your healing through D&D? Free consultations can be scheduled on my website.
"The Daring Way": Show Up, Be Seen, Live Brave. The Daring Way has a primary focus on developing shame resilience skills and a courage practice of wholehearted living that quiets your inner critic, embraces your imperfections, shows compassion towards yourself and others, and cultivates meaningful connection with others. a Certified Daring Way™ facilitator based on the research of Brené Brown, PhD. All Daring Way facilitators have completed a training certification process led by Brené Brown, PhD & TDW Faculty. TDW developing shame resilience skills & daily practices to transform the way we love, parent and lead. https://caddisconsulting.org

Hosted by Merritt Leonhardt Benz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, CDWF, MCLC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64111
Life is messy but good therapy ends. Curious about therapy or psychedelic medicine? If you came here looking for support, be encouraged. There are answers your questions. When will I feel better? What will it take for me or my relationship to change? What keeps getting in the way of my healing? The quality of your life is crafted from your decisions. Decisions can be intentional or passive, we create and re-create our lives every day. Struggle can be our greatest call to courage and the clearest path to your best life. Your breakthrough is waiting. Relationship counseling, executive coaching & individual therapy offered.
This group is a place for men to work on managing their anxiety and/or depression and how it affects their personal, romantic and work relationships, as well as overall functioning in all domains. This group meets on Tuesdays at 6pm.

Hosted by Jerald Payne, LSCSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64111
I work with individuals, couples and families on such issues as relationship issues, problem solving, conflict resolution, communication enhancement, anger management, drug/alcohol abuse and addiction. Many clients present with depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, childhood disorders such as conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, etc. I work with adults and couples on relationship/marital issues, domestic violence, etc. I work with clients who have experienced abuse, both sexual and physical. I assist parents with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I also assist clients with anxiety disorders, grief/loss issues and struggles with adjusting to life circumstances.
This 8 week workshop on Mindful Eating is based on a non diet approach to weight loss/management. The series was developed by Dr. Michelle May, a reformed yo-yo dieter, and author of the award winning book, "Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat". Janie Kilmer is a licensed facilitator of the "AmIHungry?" series. The next group is now forming. For more information about this non diet approach, go to Dr. May's website: AmIHungry.com and call Janie Kilmer @ 816-554-7705, ext 2

Hosted by Janie Kilmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Group meets in Lees Summit, MO 64063
Have you hit one of life's many mental, emotional or relational roadblocks? Are you feeling a bit travel weary? I have great news! Your brain has almost unlimited potential for self-correcting everything from negative and relentless thoughts, to deep seated, stubborn and unwanted emotions, to ingrained and undesirable behavior patterns. You have a built in awesome capacity for growth, change and healing. With your willingness joined together with my 20+years of experience, you have reason to hope. Change is possible.

Hosted by Megan L. Hull
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64110
See more therapy options for Independence
FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in Independence?
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.