Support Groups in Jackson County, MO
The focus is personal issues and relationship concerns. The aproach is primarily gestalt therapy based with an emphasis on problem solving and insight

Hosted by Shelley Stelmach-Nigro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64111
The focus is personal issues and relationship concerns. The aproach is primarily gestalt therapy based with an emphasis on problem solving and insight
We offer programs integrating EQ and advanced psychological insights with practical leadership strategies, empowering leaders to reach their highest potential in high-stakes environments. Our high-trust network of executive psychologists, each selected for their specialized expertise in navigating complex human dynamics, provides support designed to build resilience, sharpen decision-making, and enhance interpersonal impact. We go beyond conventional wellness approaches to equip leaders with the psychological tools to inspire, lead with clarity, and achieve sustained success, fostering teams that thrive under pressure. Join our roster, with leaders from organizations like McKinsey, Deloitte, NBA, NFL, Google, Apple, Cooley, & DLA Piper.

Hosted by Associates in Corporate Psychology
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64111
We offer programs integrating EQ and advanced psychological insights with practical leadership strategies, empowering leaders to reach their highest potential in high-stakes environments. Our high-trust network of executive psychologists, each selected for their specialized expertise in navigating complex human dynamics, provides support designed to build resilience, sharpen decision-making, and enhance interpersonal impact. We go beyond conventional wellness approaches to equip leaders with the psychological tools to inspire, lead with clarity, and achieve sustained success, fostering teams that thrive under pressure. Join our roster, with leaders from organizations like McKinsey, Deloitte, NBA, NFL, Google, Apple, Cooley, & DLA Piper.
Rise Up! TEEN SUPPORT GROUP This group is specifically designed for teens to build skills of resiliency, gain insight into thoughts, behaviors and feelings and increased confidence. Through building a sense of community, teens can move from "I thought it was just me" to "I am not alone and I matter". Rising Strong(tm), is based on the research of Brené Brown and the group utilizes storytelling, creative exercises and group discussion developmentally appropriate for teens. If we are brave enough, often enough, we will fall. This is a curriculum about what it takes to get back up and to write a daring new ending.

Hosted by Laura K Probasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S, CDWF
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64109
Rise Up! TEEN SUPPORT GROUP This group is specifically designed for teens to build skills of resiliency, gain insight into thoughts, behaviors and feelings and increased confidence. Through building a sense of community, teens can move from "I thought it was just me" to "I am not alone and I matter". Rising Strong(tm), is based on the research of Brené Brown and the group utilizes storytelling, creative exercises and group discussion developmentally appropriate for teens. If we are brave enough, often enough, we will fall. This is a curriculum about what it takes to get back up and to write a daring new ending.
This IOP is covered by most insurance plans. The small intimate group setting safely addresses Teen issues related to self image, substance abuse, depression, social anxiety, and other young adult stresses. One night a week includes the family members. Most young adults find that they are reaching their goals and transitioning to traditional outpatient counseling in four to six weeks.

Hosted by Chris Cobb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Group meets in Lees Summit, MO 64081
This IOP is covered by most insurance plans. The small intimate group setting safely addresses Teen issues related to self image, substance abuse, depression, social anxiety, and other young adult stresses. One night a week includes the family members. Most young adults find that they are reaching their goals and transitioning to traditional outpatient counseling in four to six weeks.
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.

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.
Groups are being developed and more details will come soon!

Hosted by Susan Andree
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Group meets in Lees Summit, MO 64064
Groups are being developed and more details will come soon!
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
Group meets in Independence, MO 64050
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.
Psychoeducational group for parents, partners, and other family members seeking to better understand how their loved one experiences the world. The group is divided into two sections, one for caregivers of autistic adults and another for caregivers for autistic children to better individualize the discussion.

Psychoeducational group for parents, partners, and other family members seeking to better understand how their loved one experiences the world. The group is divided into two sections, one for caregivers of autistic adults and another for caregivers for autistic children to better individualize the discussion.
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
Group meets in Lees Summit, MO 64086
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).
Since becoming a parent, have you noticed your usual coping skills are no longer working? Do you find yourself struggling to regulate your emotions, manage stress, and have healthy relationships? Participants do not need to be a client of our practice to attend and this group is open to join at any time. Each group is 12 weeks and will repeat quarterly. Group offered thru telehealth via secure virtual platform. Cost is $10/$30/$50 Pay-What-You-Can

Since becoming a parent, have you noticed your usual coping skills are no longer working? Do you find yourself struggling to regulate your emotions, manage stress, and have healthy relationships? Participants do not need to be a client of our practice to attend and this group is open to join at any time. Each group is 12 weeks and will repeat quarterly. Group offered thru telehealth via secure virtual platform. Cost is $10/$30/$50 Pay-What-You-Can
Group psychotherapy can be an extremely effective treatment because it offers an opportunity to receive assistance from both others who have had similar experiences and a trained professional simultaneously.l

Group psychotherapy can be an extremely effective treatment because it offers an opportunity to receive assistance from both others who have had similar experiences and a trained professional simultaneously.l
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
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64111
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.
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
Group meets in Lees Summit, MO 64064
I provide EMDR Consultation in person and via telephone. Contact me to ask about the scheduling options.
Date: July 26, 2025 (9:30a registration) 10:00a-2:00p. This is a faith-based group for women. This group is led by 3 clinically licensed therapists and 2 experienced women in ministry. Defining wounded identity leads to understanding past traumas and experiences that have shaped one's sense of self. Bring someone with you. Dress comfy, wear your favorite positive t-shirt and jeans! Get your tickets today.

Hosted by Vonetta McClunie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, OTRL, EMDR
Group meets in Raytown, MO 64138
Date: July 26, 2025 (9:30a registration) 10:00a-2:00p. This is a faith-based group for women. This group is led by 3 clinically licensed therapists and 2 experienced women in ministry. Defining wounded identity leads to understanding past traumas and experiences that have shaped one's sense of self. Bring someone with you. Dress comfy, wear your favorite positive t-shirt and jeans! Get your tickets today.
Provide group counseling as part of a dual diagnosis treatment plan in an outpatient substance abuse program for adults with a variety of substance abuse issues and mood, anxiety and personality disorders. Facilitate group psychoeducation: addiction, mood disorders, anger management, cognitive restructuring, goal setting, medication education, problem solving, relationship skills and stress management. Cognitive-behavioral orientation is utilized.

Hosted by Emily J Towner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64112
Provide group counseling as part of a dual diagnosis treatment plan in an outpatient substance abuse program for adults with a variety of substance abuse issues and mood, anxiety and personality disorders. Facilitate group psychoeducation: addiction, mood disorders, anger management, cognitive restructuring, goal setting, medication education, problem solving, relationship skills and stress management. Cognitive-behavioral orientation is utilized.
This group is perfect for individuals who have completed a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program and want continued reinforcement of skills and support. This process group helps members to individualize interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation and coping skills learned in previous skills groups and provides an opportunity for further processing of issues outside of individual sessions. This group offers a safe environment for open discussion of any or all topics or issues in an empathic and nonjudgmental atmosphere. All group members are expected to be working with an individual therapist and therapist referral is preferred.

This group is perfect for individuals who have completed a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program and want continued reinforcement of skills and support. This process group helps members to individualize interpersonal effectiveness, emotion regulation and coping skills learned in previous skills groups and provides an opportunity for further processing of issues outside of individual sessions. This group offers a safe environment for open discussion of any or all topics or issues in an empathic and nonjudgmental atmosphere. All group members are expected to be working with an individual therapist and therapist referral is preferred.
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
Group meets in Lees Summit, MO 64063
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
For teenagers ages 11-18, this group focuses on teens who identify as gender non conforming or transgender. This is a safe place to explore emotions and feel accepted and cared about.

Hosted by Lynn B Barnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSCSW, LCSW
Group meets in Kansas City, MO 64131
For teenagers ages 11-18, this group focuses on teens who identify as gender non conforming or transgender. This is a safe place to explore emotions and feel accepted and cared about.
Following the Dialectical Behavior Therapy methodology, clients are supported weekly by learning new skills from the four modules. The modules include mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Group members can receive coaching calls at no cost when they are in distress. Members are required to also work with a DBT therapist at the same time.

Following the Dialectical Behavior Therapy methodology, clients are supported weekly by learning new skills from the four modules. The modules include mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. Group members can receive coaching calls at no cost when they are in distress. Members are required to also work with a DBT therapist at the same time.
Life after trauma. This is a group for those who are ready to reconnect with themselves and the world after experiencing a single traumatic event, complex trauma, loss, suffering, and more. Explore your narrative, connect with self and others, and work towards reimagining your life beyond the lens of your pain. This is an 8-week group for adults oriented toward peer support and the acknowledgement of inner resilience. *See flyer in my profile for more information*.

Life after trauma. This is a group for those who are ready to reconnect with themselves and the world after experiencing a single traumatic event, complex trauma, loss, suffering, and more. Explore your narrative, connect with self and others, and work towards reimagining your life beyond the lens of your pain. This is an 8-week group for adults oriented toward peer support and the acknowledgement of inner resilience. *See flyer in my profile for more information*.
See more therapy options for Jackson County
FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups
How can I find a support group in Jackson 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.
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.