Support Groups in Asheville, NC

This is a mixed gender, interpersonal process groups that meet weekly on zoom. These groups are for people interested in meaningful and deep interpersonal work, where we focus on emotional communication, intimacy, and connection. Group is a place where you can try new things, share thoughts and feelings that don't often get expressed, give and receive feedback, work on attachment wounds, and develop deep and meaningful relationships with other people who are wanting to be more authentic.
Photo of Chris Byrne, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Hosted by Chris Byrne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
This is a mixed gender, interpersonal process groups that meet weekly on zoom. These groups are for people interested in meaningful and deep interpersonal work, where we focus on emotional communication, intimacy, and connection. Group is a place where you can try new things, share thoughts and feelings that don't often get expressed, give and receive feedback, work on attachment wounds, and develop deep and meaningful relationships with other people who are wanting to be more authentic.
(828) 786-8201 View (828) 786-8201
Perinatal Bereavement Support Group is for individuals or families who have experienced the loss of a baby through miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth or newborn death. The group is open to anyone who has experienced a loss regardless of how long ago the loss occurred. Topics Include: Fathers and Grief Reactions of family and friends after a perinatal loss, Subsequent pregnancy, Holidays and Special events, Managing difficult emotions, Remembering your baby, Coping with stress, and Reaching out for support.
Photo of Dr. Katherine Hyde Hensley, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LCMHC, IPPE-C, LCAS
Hosted by Dr. Katherine Hyde Hensley
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LCMHC, IPPE-C, LCAS
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
Perinatal Bereavement Support Group is for individuals or families who have experienced the loss of a baby through miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth or newborn death. The group is open to anyone who has experienced a loss regardless of how long ago the loss occurred. Topics Include: Fathers and Grief Reactions of family and friends after a perinatal loss, Subsequent pregnancy, Holidays and Special events, Managing difficult emotions, Remembering your baby, Coping with stress, and Reaching out for support.
(828) 771-6985 View (828) 771-6985
An open-ended, ongoing support group for women coming off (or considering coming off) antidepressants and other psychiatric medications. Open to residents of Arizona and North Carolina. Each group will provide the opportunity for personal reflection and sharing, as well as the opportunity to practice tools such as mindfulness meditation, guided imagery, breathwork and other similar modalities. This group is not a substitute for medical advice during the taper process. This group is led by a licensed therapist and requires an intake prior to joining. Please reach out with any questions!
Photo of Brooke Stevenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Brooke Stevenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
An open-ended, ongoing support group for women coming off (or considering coming off) antidepressants and other psychiatric medications. Open to residents of Arizona and North Carolina. Each group will provide the opportunity for personal reflection and sharing, as well as the opportunity to practice tools such as mindfulness meditation, guided imagery, breathwork and other similar modalities. This group is not a substitute for medical advice during the taper process. This group is led by a licensed therapist and requires an intake prior to joining. Please reach out with any questions!
(828) 360-9902 View (828) 360-9902
Do you struggle with low desire, religious trauma or other sexual concerns? I am starting a therapy group for women who would like to increase their ability to enjoy sex and to engage in a discussion with others to process their emotions regarding their sexuality in a supportive and sex-positive environment. Cost 20.00 per session pre-paid. Weekly in-person meetings: Fridays from 4:00-5:30.
Photo of Cherie Anna Montou, Counselor, MAEd, LCMHCA, NCC
Hosted by Cherie Anna Montou
Counselor, MAEd, LCMHCA, NCC
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
Do you struggle with low desire, religious trauma or other sexual concerns? I am starting a therapy group for women who would like to increase their ability to enjoy sex and to engage in a discussion with others to process their emotions regarding their sexuality in a supportive and sex-positive environment. Cost 20.00 per session pre-paid. Weekly in-person meetings: Fridays from 4:00-5:30.
(828) 809-0591 View (828) 809-0591
Are you ready to take your relationships to the next level ? Whether you are seeking a deeper connection with your partner, aiming to enhance communication with loved ones, or looking to build meaningful connections in your personal or professional life, our Relationship Mastery Class is designed to empower you with the tools, insights and skills you need to succeed. In this transformative and interactive course, you'll embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Led by experienced relationship experts and therapists, you will learn valuable techniques to navigate the complexities of human connections with confidence and understanding.
Photo of Pia Arrendell - Pia Arrendell, LMFT PC, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Hosted by Pia Arrendell, LMFT PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
Are you ready to take your relationships to the next level ? Whether you are seeking a deeper connection with your partner, aiming to enhance communication with loved ones, or looking to build meaningful connections in your personal or professional life, our Relationship Mastery Class is designed to empower you with the tools, insights and skills you need to succeed. In this transformative and interactive course, you'll embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Led by experienced relationship experts and therapists, you will learn valuable techniques to navigate the complexities of human connections with confidence and understanding.
(828) 624-4546 View (828) 624-4546
Not a group but a couple's retreat. Couples may come for 3-5 days and stay in our Airbnb (or a location of your choice). We'll do an extended couples' session each day, and an EMDR session with each person, which helps release and resolve anxiety, anger, grief, triggers from relationship issues such as broken trust, arguments, etc. If you are local, we can do intensive work without your staying here. With intensive work we can go much deeper than in weekly sessions. EMDR greatly assists in this process. For more information about EMDR, see my website.
Photo of Carol Greenberger, Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Hosted by Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28805
Not a group but a couple's retreat. Couples may come for 3-5 days and stay in our Airbnb (or a location of your choice). We'll do an extended couples' session each day, and an EMDR session with each person, which helps release and resolve anxiety, anger, grief, triggers from relationship issues such as broken trust, arguments, etc. If you are local, we can do intensive work without your staying here. With intensive work we can go much deeper than in weekly sessions. EMDR greatly assists in this process. For more information about EMDR, see my website.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226
I lead a number of ongoing groups. Psychodynamic group therapy, also known as Group Process, is a powerful way to explore how and why we feel the ways we do about ourselves and others when we interact with people in relationships. Profound growth and change are the reward for group work over time. Find more information at: www.pamelamillis.com/group-therapy/ or contact me at pamelamillis@protonmail.com
Photo of Pamela Millis, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, CGP
Hosted by Pamela Millis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, CGP
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
I lead a number of ongoing groups. Psychodynamic group therapy, also known as Group Process, is a powerful way to explore how and why we feel the ways we do about ourselves and others when we interact with people in relationships. Profound growth and change are the reward for group work over time. Find more information at: www.pamelamillis.com/group-therapy/ or contact me at pamelamillis@protonmail.com
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Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC), an empirically-supported, 8-week, a training designed to cultivate: skills of self-compassion including conscious kindness to self, mindful awareness and knowing we're not alone. Based on research of Kristin Neff & clinical expertise of Christopher Germer. Participants learn to respond to difficult moments with kindness & acceptance. Research demonstrates self-compassion is strongly associated with emotional wellbeing, less anxiety, depression and stress, maintenance of healthy habits such as diet and exercise, and satisfying personal relationships. Self-compassion provides emotional strength and resilience, allowing us to admit our shortcomings, motivate ourselves with kindness, be more authentically ourselves.
Photo of Deborah A Burns, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Hosted by Deborah A Burns
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28805
Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC), an empirically-supported, 8-week, a training designed to cultivate: skills of self-compassion including conscious kindness to self, mindful awareness and knowing we're not alone. Based on research of Kristin Neff & clinical expertise of Christopher Germer. Participants learn to respond to difficult moments with kindness & acceptance. Research demonstrates self-compassion is strongly associated with emotional wellbeing, less anxiety, depression and stress, maintenance of healthy habits such as diet and exercise, and satisfying personal relationships. Self-compassion provides emotional strength and resilience, allowing us to admit our shortcomings, motivate ourselves with kindness, be more authentically ourselves.
(828) 544-1869 View (828) 544-1869
I facilitate interpersonal process groups that focus on the present-moment experiences of group members, who all agree, as part of the group contract, to put their feelings into words as those feelings arise. While outside issues occasionally come up and are explored, the main function of this type of group work (informed by theories in modern psychoanalysis) is to strengthen the participant’s ability to sit with difficult emotions (rather than avoid them) and verbally communicate those emotions toward other people, in real time. It's a deeply enlivening, connective, and therefore healing experience.
Photo of Sarah Brown Simpson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Hosted by Sarah Brown Simpson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
I facilitate interpersonal process groups that focus on the present-moment experiences of group members, who all agree, as part of the group contract, to put their feelings into words as those feelings arise. While outside issues occasionally come up and are explored, the main function of this type of group work (informed by theories in modern psychoanalysis) is to strengthen the participant’s ability to sit with difficult emotions (rather than avoid them) and verbally communicate those emotions toward other people, in real time. It's a deeply enlivening, connective, and therefore healing experience.
(919) 587-8547 View (919) 587-8547
As the days grow shorter and the sun's intensity wanes, heed the call to turn inward. Open space for the uncertainty you've been busying yourself away from. This therapeutic creative writing circle is designed to invite and hold your most jagged questions. Through breath, intuitive reading, meditation, and creative writing, we'll rebirth your wonderings about grief, trauma, existence, and identity into expressions that unlock discovery and healing. Tuesdays 6-8pm, Sept 24th - October 29th. For more information, visit www.openinghandstherapy.com and navigate to Offerings, then Groups & Workshops.
Photo of Ellen Louise Ray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, MFA
Hosted by Ellen Louise Ray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, MFA
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
As the days grow shorter and the sun's intensity wanes, heed the call to turn inward. Open space for the uncertainty you've been busying yourself away from. This therapeutic creative writing circle is designed to invite and hold your most jagged questions. Through breath, intuitive reading, meditation, and creative writing, we'll rebirth your wonderings about grief, trauma, existence, and identity into expressions that unlock discovery and healing. Tuesdays 6-8pm, Sept 24th - October 29th. For more information, visit www.openinghandstherapy.com and navigate to Offerings, then Groups & Workshops.
(828) 705-3329 View (828) 705-3329
I facilitate groups and treat individuals who are interested in exploring their use of internet pornography, on-line chat rooms, cybersex, massage parlors, prostitution and compulsive masturbation. Many men, women and teens have inadvertantly developed an unhealthy relationship to sex, one which leaves them feeling isolated, guilty, and often anxious and depressed about their helplessness to control their behavior. Sexual compulsivity & addiction invariably lead to lost time, lost money, lost relationships and loss of self-esteem. There is, however, an effective way out of this painful cycle. Please contact me to discuss this further.
Photo of David Von Kohorn, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, C-EFT
Hosted by David Von Kohorn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, C-EFT
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
I facilitate groups and treat individuals who are interested in exploring their use of internet pornography, on-line chat rooms, cybersex, massage parlors, prostitution and compulsive masturbation. Many men, women and teens have inadvertantly developed an unhealthy relationship to sex, one which leaves them feeling isolated, guilty, and often anxious and depressed about their helplessness to control their behavior. Sexual compulsivity & addiction invariably lead to lost time, lost money, lost relationships and loss of self-esteem. There is, however, an effective way out of this painful cycle. Please contact me to discuss this further.
(828) 708-7590 View (828) 708-7590
A group of mutually supportive women working on improving their skills and living happier, healthier & more fulfilling lives.
Photo of Rhonda Suzanne Karg, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Rhonda Suzanne Karg
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28806
A group of mutually supportive women working on improving their skills and living happier, healthier & more fulfilling lives.
(828) 358-0378 View (828) 358-0378
We've teamed up with Women's Osteopathic Wellness to offer Mindful Motherhood group therapy to Asheville residents. This group prepares expectant mothers for the emotional challenges of the postpartum journey, along with pain/injury prevention from pregnancy through motherhood. Motherhood can be tough, and feelings of isolation/loneliness (and possible Postpartum Depression/Anxiety) after giving birth can feel overwhelming. Connect with women in the same phase of life, to make your postpartum experience smooth as possible. Research suggests group therapy for new mothers is more effective than individual sessions alone. Let's take a proactive approach for a smoother transition into motherhood.
Photo of Elizabeth Schane - Well Roots Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Hosted by Well Roots Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
We've teamed up with Women's Osteopathic Wellness to offer Mindful Motherhood group therapy to Asheville residents. This group prepares expectant mothers for the emotional challenges of the postpartum journey, along with pain/injury prevention from pregnancy through motherhood. Motherhood can be tough, and feelings of isolation/loneliness (and possible Postpartum Depression/Anxiety) after giving birth can feel overwhelming. Connect with women in the same phase of life, to make your postpartum experience smooth as possible. Research suggests group therapy for new mothers is more effective than individual sessions alone. Let's take a proactive approach for a smoother transition into motherhood.
(802) 210-1499 View (802) 210-1499
A free virtual support group for Autistic individuals, those who support Autistic individuals, self-realized Autistics, or those who were later in life diagnosed as being Autistic. Targeted for the higher masking Autistics, this groups aims to provide a safe space for those who wish to meet like-minded individuals and share their stories.
Photo of Elizabeth 'zabe' Pietzsch, Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Hosted by Elizabeth 'zabe' Pietzsch
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28806
A free virtual support group for Autistic individuals, those who support Autistic individuals, self-realized Autistics, or those who were later in life diagnosed as being Autistic. Targeted for the higher masking Autistics, this groups aims to provide a safe space for those who wish to meet like-minded individuals and share their stories.
(828) 532-2166 View (828) 532-2166
This is a 1-3 session group aimed specifically to help those couples who are trying to make a commitment decision but are undecided. I use the MBTI (Myers Briggs) as well as elements of Emotionally Focused Therapy to help couples understand their ambivalence, or feel comfortable with the commitment decision they have already made. Participants should be willing to understand their personality type and their partner's as well.
Photo of Paula Zerfoss - Paula Zerfoss, LCSW, Couple Therapy That Works, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Paula Zerfoss, LCSW, Couple Therapy That Works
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
This is a 1-3 session group aimed specifically to help those couples who are trying to make a commitment decision but are undecided. I use the MBTI (Myers Briggs) as well as elements of Emotionally Focused Therapy to help couples understand their ambivalence, or feel comfortable with the commitment decision they have already made. Participants should be willing to understand their personality type and their partner's as well.
(857) 342-3184 View (857) 342-3184
Baffled about how to get along with family members or neighbors who see things differently than you do? Concerned about the political divide? Wish for another choice besides angry argument vs keeping silent about your values? In this small group, drawing on tools suggested by Marshall Rosenberg and Byron Katie, members learn and practice skills to enjoy heart to heart connection with people who think and vote differently than they do. It is possible! It can be heartwarming. It is good for our country. It supports profound healing and growth. Please call or message to sign up or learn more.
Photo of Carlyle Stewart, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Hosted by Carlyle Stewart
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LCAS
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28803
Baffled about how to get along with family members or neighbors who see things differently than you do? Concerned about the political divide? Wish for another choice besides angry argument vs keeping silent about your values? In this small group, drawing on tools suggested by Marshall Rosenberg and Byron Katie, members learn and practice skills to enjoy heart to heart connection with people who think and vote differently than they do. It is possible! It can be heartwarming. It is good for our country. It supports profound healing and growth. Please call or message to sign up or learn more.
(828) 373-2057 View (828) 373-2057
A six-week online women's workshop to explore the psychology of people-pleasing. We look at how early experiences have contributed to your self-sacrificing habit. Most importantly, we’ll explore the different parts of YOU. I’ll be leading you to explore and integrate four key archetypes of every self-sacrificing woman: The Inner Girl Child, The Inner Critic, The Enlightened Rebel & The Goddess. Through using creative and spiritual therapeutic techniques you will discover a new way to relate to yourself and others. DM me or go to rachaelchatham.com Group starts January 15!
Photo of Rachael Chatham - Rachael Chatham, LCMHC - Whole Self Therapy, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, CYT, LCMHC
Hosted by Rachael Chatham, LCMHC - Whole Self Therapy, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, CYT, LCMHC
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
A six-week online women's workshop to explore the psychology of people-pleasing. We look at how early experiences have contributed to your self-sacrificing habit. Most importantly, we’ll explore the different parts of YOU. I’ll be leading you to explore and integrate four key archetypes of every self-sacrificing woman: The Inner Girl Child, The Inner Critic, The Enlightened Rebel & The Goddess. Through using creative and spiritual therapeutic techniques you will discover a new way to relate to yourself and others. DM me or go to rachaelchatham.com Group starts January 15!
(828) 799-9768 View (828) 799-9768
This free monthly group is designed to fill your tool box with ways to handle stress, difficult relationships, and find support with other women who get it. ashevilleinfertilitycounseling.com/group
Photo of Allison Ramsey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LMHC
Hosted by Allison Ramsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LMHC
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
This free monthly group is designed to fill your tool box with ways to handle stress, difficult relationships, and find support with other women who get it. ashevilleinfertilitycounseling.com/group
(828) 358-0694 View (828) 358-0694
I am a woman with Severe Chronic Long COVID that I’ve had for 5+ years now. I am also a therapist with 21+ years specializing in trauma. I have not seen any local in person groups for us. We need safe, in-person connection to heal. NO ONE else but us knows what this illness is like. And, as women it’s just fucking harder! Let’s help eachother. Trust that this is a SAFE space as even the therapist has this! Along with support I will be offering Mindfulness & EMDR as well. We need eachother! Contact me now.
Photo of Rachel Weiss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Rachel Weiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28805
I am a woman with Severe Chronic Long COVID that I’ve had for 5+ years now. I am also a therapist with 21+ years specializing in trauma. I have not seen any local in person groups for us. We need safe, in-person connection to heal. NO ONE else but us knows what this illness is like. And, as women it’s just fucking harder! Let’s help eachother. Trust that this is a SAFE space as even the therapist has this! Along with support I will be offering Mindfulness & EMDR as well. We need eachother! Contact me now.
(828) 585-5024 View (828) 585-5024
The DBT group offers a set of skills to help individuals live a more centered life. Members learn how to live more fully in the present moment (mindfulness), how to have more effective relationships with others (interpersonal effectiveness), how to identify and manage emotions (emotion regulation), and strategies to help effectively survive an emotional crisis (distress tolerance). For those who struggle to control their feelings and who desire skills to manage intense emotions and thoughts. Individuals with anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors (self-harm, binging/purging) and who are struggling with building a life worth living are great for this group.
Photo of Bo Hess, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Hosted by Bo Hess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Group meets in Asheville, NC 28801
The DBT group offers a set of skills to help individuals live a more centered life. Members learn how to live more fully in the present moment (mindfulness), how to have more effective relationships with others (interpersonal effectiveness), how to identify and manage emotions (emotion regulation), and strategies to help effectively survive an emotional crisis (distress tolerance). For those who struggle to control their feelings and who desire skills to manage intense emotions and thoughts. Individuals with anxiety, depression, impulsive behaviors (self-harm, binging/purging) and who are struggling with building a life worth living are great for this group.
(828) 759-5354 View (828) 759-5354

See more therapy options for Asheville

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Asheville?

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.