Support Groups in Dix Hills, NY

5 weekly groups. Tuesdays- 18+ group 730-830 pm. Wednesday- high school co-ed, 6-7pm, Saturdays- 10:15-11:15pm- high school co-ed, Sunday- 9:15-10:15am co-ed high school and Sunday- 10:30-11:30 middle school co-ed. Group offer kids a safe place to share their lives, help adolescents explore issues. Focuses on self esteem, school, friendship, bullying. Topics- initiating and maintaining conversations, impulsivity, empathy, verbal, non verbal communications, making and keeping friends, coping skills, assertiveness training, communication, decision making, self confidence, feelings, negotiating, problem solving, and life skills. Participation in recreational activities every friday night.
Photo of Dana Kane-Glickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Dana Kane-Glickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Dix Hills, NY 11746
5 weekly groups. Tuesdays- 18+ group 730-830 pm. Wednesday- high school co-ed, 6-7pm, Saturdays- 10:15-11:15pm- high school co-ed, Sunday- 9:15-10:15am co-ed high school and Sunday- 10:30-11:30 middle school co-ed. Group offer kids a safe place to share their lives, help adolescents explore issues. Focuses on self esteem, school, friendship, bullying. Topics- initiating and maintaining conversations, impulsivity, empathy, verbal, non verbal communications, making and keeping friends, coping skills, assertiveness training, communication, decision making, self confidence, feelings, negotiating, problem solving, and life skills. Participation in recreational activities every friday night.
(516) 619-7123 View (516) 619-7123
Kidz Helping Kidz is a weekly Social Skills Program combined with Recreational Events for Kindergarten- 18 Plus. Weekly activities include Friday Nights Outs , Saturdays-Girls Day Out and Sunday Socials- enjoying the video game room. Our group is a place where your child will be accepted unconditionally, improve self esteem, have fun and make new friends. The kids are also invited to be part of the peer mentoring program where they help out in a younger group. Time to put down your cell phones and have fun! Please visit the website for more information at kidzhelpingkidz.us
Photo of Dana Kane-Glickman - Kidz Helping Kidz, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Kidz Helping Kidz, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Dix Hills, NY 11746
Kidz Helping Kidz is a weekly Social Skills Program combined with Recreational Events for Kindergarten- 18 Plus. Weekly activities include Friday Nights Outs , Saturdays-Girls Day Out and Sunday Socials- enjoying the video game room. Our group is a place where your child will be accepted unconditionally, improve self esteem, have fun and make new friends. The kids are also invited to be part of the peer mentoring program where they help out in a younger group. Time to put down your cell phones and have fun! Please visit the website for more information at kidzhelpingkidz.us
(516) 289-9569 View (516) 289-9569
Group therapy can help teens realize they are not alone. The purpose of this group is to provide teens the opportunity to share their internal struggles with anxiety and depression and develop strategies to navigate their feelings. It is a safe place to discuss personal issues, experiences, struggles, thoughts and receive encouragement and support. It acts as support network and a sounding board. Group Therapy can help develop and build social connections, raise self confidence and self esteem Group therapy can help teens increase self expression, emotional assertiveness, better communication skills, reduce stress, depression and improve relationships.
Photo of Dana Kane-Glickman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Dana Kane-Glickman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Dix Hills, NY 11746
Group therapy can help teens realize they are not alone. The purpose of this group is to provide teens the opportunity to share their internal struggles with anxiety and depression and develop strategies to navigate their feelings. It is a safe place to discuss personal issues, experiences, struggles, thoughts and receive encouragement and support. It acts as support network and a sounding board. Group Therapy can help develop and build social connections, raise self confidence and self esteem Group therapy can help teens increase self expression, emotional assertiveness, better communication skills, reduce stress, depression and improve relationships.
(516) 619-7123 View (516) 619-7123

More Groups Nearby

Are you an overwhelmed and frustrated mom looking for cooperation and respect from your tween/teen? I have developed an exclusive 3-step connected communication method that helps moms go from conflict to harmony in just three easy steps. This method is located inside my "How to Build Your House of Harmony" program that includes 16 recorded videos, a downloadable workbook guide, one 30 min call w/ me, live coaching hours inside a private community of like-minded parents, and free partner access. I even offer a 14 money-back guarantee! Schedule your free no pressure call today. References available.
Photo of Deborah Winters - Deborah Winters, LCSW, Parent Educator, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Deborah Winters, LCSW, Parent Educator
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Huntington, NY 11743
Are you an overwhelmed and frustrated mom looking for cooperation and respect from your tween/teen? I have developed an exclusive 3-step connected communication method that helps moms go from conflict to harmony in just three easy steps. This method is located inside my "How to Build Your House of Harmony" program that includes 16 recorded videos, a downloadable workbook guide, one 30 min call w/ me, live coaching hours inside a private community of like-minded parents, and free partner access. I even offer a 14 money-back guarantee! Schedule your free no pressure call today. References available.
(631) 615-7483 View (631) 615-7483
We provide several services for therapists: 1) quality Clinical Supervision 2) group Clinical Supervision and 3) A Certification Course in my trademarked model ADVANCED HOLISTIC COUNSELING. This course trains therapists & coaches in how to combine the best of Traditional Psychotherapy with Life Coaching, Energy Healing, Science, Spirituality, Meditation and Manifestation. Plus- Earn Clinical "C" Hours, direct-client experience, and intensive clinical & holistic training. Apply now for 2023-2024 Cert Course!
Photo of Beth Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CEC, CAHC
Hosted by Beth Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CEC, CAHC
Group meets in Bayport, NY 11705
We provide several services for therapists: 1) quality Clinical Supervision 2) group Clinical Supervision and 3) A Certification Course in my trademarked model ADVANCED HOLISTIC COUNSELING. This course trains therapists & coaches in how to combine the best of Traditional Psychotherapy with Life Coaching, Energy Healing, Science, Spirituality, Meditation and Manifestation. Plus- Earn Clinical "C" Hours, direct-client experience, and intensive clinical & holistic training. Apply now for 2023-2024 Cert Course!
(631) 593-5420 View (631) 593-5420
MBCT is an innovative and powerful 8 session psychoeducational group for individuals who have struggled with depression and unhappiness,and who are currently feeling better. Participants will learn how to recognize early symptoms of depression, how to interrupt a depressive cycle, and how to identify skills to promote continued health and well-being. MBCT group will begin in October, 2013. Please contact me for more information if you believe that this group can be of help to you.
Photo of JoAnn Rosen, Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC
Hosted by JoAnn Rosen
Counselor, EdD, LMHC, NCC
Group meets in East Setauket, NY 11733
MBCT is an innovative and powerful 8 session psychoeducational group for individuals who have struggled with depression and unhappiness,and who are currently feeling better. Participants will learn how to recognize early symptoms of depression, how to interrupt a depressive cycle, and how to identify skills to promote continued health and well-being. MBCT group will begin in October, 2013. Please contact me for more information if you believe that this group can be of help to you.
(631) 594-8281 View (631) 594-8281
Join us for a guided music and relaxation wellness group for adults designed to soothe your soul and rejuvenate your spirit. This group blends the therapeutic power of live music with mindful relaxation techniques, offering an experience that fosters deep relaxation and emotional well-being. Whether you seek relief from stress, enhanced mental clarity, or simply a moment of tranquility, Tonal Center offers you space to unwind and reconnect with yourself. ($40 due at each workshop session or $140 can be paid upfront for a bundle price.)
Photo of Carly Caprioli, Creative Arts Therapist, MS, LCAT, MT-BC
Hosted by Carly Caprioli
Creative Arts Therapist, MS, LCAT, MT-BC
Group meets in West Islip, NY 11795
Join us for a guided music and relaxation wellness group for adults designed to soothe your soul and rejuvenate your spirit. This group blends the therapeutic power of live music with mindful relaxation techniques, offering an experience that fosters deep relaxation and emotional well-being. Whether you seek relief from stress, enhanced mental clarity, or simply a moment of tranquility, Tonal Center offers you space to unwind and reconnect with yourself. ($40 due at each workshop session or $140 can be paid upfront for a bundle price.)
(516) 908-9585 View (516) 908-9585
Interested in learning how to heal from within? Ready to set a healing foundation in your life for yourself and your family? Ready to learn how to attract the experiences and life you truly deserve and want? This group teaches you everything you need to know about combining healing and attracting a healthy/happy life!
Photo of Mary Ozegovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Hosted by Mary Ozegovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Group meets in East Islip, NY 11730
Interested in learning how to heal from within? Ready to set a healing foundation in your life for yourself and your family? Ready to learn how to attract the experiences and life you truly deserve and want? This group teaches you everything you need to know about combining healing and attracting a healthy/happy life!
(631) 250-3735 View (631) 250-3735
Our affordable DBT-informed program for pre-adolescent children can help children who struggle with emotion dysregulation and behavioral dyscontrol. Children and parents are taught Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness, and Middle Path skills together. Parents learn how to be more effective in helping their children manage their emotional distress. Research has clearly established that parental involvement in therapy predicts better therapeutic outcomes for children.
Photo of Kim Lynn Lehnert - Clear Path DBT, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Clear Path DBT
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776
Our affordable DBT-informed program for pre-adolescent children can help children who struggle with emotion dysregulation and behavioral dyscontrol. Children and parents are taught Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, Interpersonal Effectiveness, and Middle Path skills together. Parents learn how to be more effective in helping their children manage their emotional distress. Research has clearly established that parental involvement in therapy predicts better therapeutic outcomes for children.
(631) 707-9163 View (631) 707-9163
Advanced Holistic therapists are trained in combining the best tools from traditional Psychotherapy, action-oriented Life Coaching, barrier-busting Energy Healing, empirical Science, and enlightening Spiritual Counseling. Our clients are treated as whole beings who deserve a holistic, intuitive approach.  And we believe in doing FAR more than just talking about a problem. Accepting New Clients NOW. 631-533-0708
Photo of Erin Werner, Counselor, LMHC
Hosted by Erin Werner
Counselor, LMHC
Group meets in Bayport, NY 11705
Advanced Holistic therapists are trained in combining the best tools from traditional Psychotherapy, action-oriented Life Coaching, barrier-busting Energy Healing, empirical Science, and enlightening Spiritual Counseling. Our clients are treated as whole beings who deserve a holistic, intuitive approach.  And we believe in doing FAR more than just talking about a problem. Accepting New Clients NOW. 631-533-0708
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Meet with other new parents in a non-judgmental, supportive group setting. Topics include: Your new identity as a mom or dad, Expectations vs. reality, Dealing with sleep-deprivation, Relationship issues with your partner, Self-care, Baby Blues vs. postpartum depression. Space is limited so call or email to reserve your spot. You are welcome to bring your baby to the group!
Photo of Whitney Steller, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Hosted by Whitney Steller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Group meets in Huntington, NY 11743
Meet with other new parents in a non-judgmental, supportive group setting. Topics include: Your new identity as a mom or dad, Expectations vs. reality, Dealing with sleep-deprivation, Relationship issues with your partner, Self-care, Baby Blues vs. postpartum depression. Space is limited so call or email to reserve your spot. You are welcome to bring your baby to the group!
(631) 546-0740 View (631) 546-0740
Whether you’re swiping, first-dating, or healing from a breakup, we’re here to listen, learn, and grow together. Share your experiences, challenges, and successes in a safe and understanding environment. Let’s build confidence, set healthy boundaries, and find love on your terms.
Photo of Krista Barlow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Hosted by Krista Barlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Group meets in Sayville, NY 11782
Whether you’re swiping, first-dating, or healing from a breakup, we’re here to listen, learn, and grow together. Share your experiences, challenges, and successes in a safe and understanding environment. Let’s build confidence, set healthy boundaries, and find love on your terms.
(631) 496-4267 View (631) 496-4267
Blended families typically include a stepparent, step-siblings or half-blood siblings. Whatever the mix; blending two families is difficult. This group aims to provide parents of blended families a supportive network to discuss the common stressors and challenges faced by this population. This group will provide a safe space to express your inner thoughts and emotions. We will review evidenced-based behavioral strategies, communication techniques, and ways to establish firm and healthy boundaries to foster a balanced union. **We welcome one or both parents to attend**
Photo of Angela Teri-Sarling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LMSW
Hosted by Angela Teri-Sarling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, LMSW
Group meets in Lake Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
Blended families typically include a stepparent, step-siblings or half-blood siblings. Whatever the mix; blending two families is difficult. This group aims to provide parents of blended families a supportive network to discuss the common stressors and challenges faced by this population. This group will provide a safe space to express your inner thoughts and emotions. We will review evidenced-based behavioral strategies, communication techniques, and ways to establish firm and healthy boundaries to foster a balanced union. **We welcome one or both parents to attend**
(631) 657-2371 View (631) 657-2371
This therapeutic group offers a safe, compassionate space for women navigating the emotional complexities of infertility and pregnancy loss. Whether you're grieving a miscarriage, coping with failed treatments, or feeling overwhelmed by isolation, you're not alone. Guided by a licensed therapist, this group supports emotional healing, reduces shame, and helps you reconnect with hope and strength. Through shared stories, reflection, and gentle structure, we explore grief, relationship strain, identity, anxiety, and resilience. This group welcomes women at any stage, whether currently trying to conceive or processing past losses.
Photo of Cori Kapopoulos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Couples, Affair, Women, Esteem, Shame
Hosted by Cori Kapopoulos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Couples, Affair, Women, Esteem, Shame
Group meets in Stony Brook, NY 11790
This therapeutic group offers a safe, compassionate space for women navigating the emotional complexities of infertility and pregnancy loss. Whether you're grieving a miscarriage, coping with failed treatments, or feeling overwhelmed by isolation, you're not alone. Guided by a licensed therapist, this group supports emotional healing, reduces shame, and helps you reconnect with hope and strength. Through shared stories, reflection, and gentle structure, we explore grief, relationship strain, identity, anxiety, and resilience. This group welcomes women at any stage, whether currently trying to conceive or processing past losses.
(631) 349-3033 View (631) 349-3033
Suffolk Health Psychology Services, PLLC offers comprehensive evaluations & evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. HIPAA-HITECH-compliant video conferencing software allows you to attend all appointments from the comfort and convenience of your own home! Our areas of focus include: sleep problems, anxiety, chronic medical illnesses, life-altering injuries, college stress, relaxation training, physical activity, depression / postpartum depression, PTSD, Worker’s Compensation, & Independent Medical Examinations, Our compassionate approach ensures that every individual feels valued and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. Our tailored strategies are designed to foster resilience and a renewed sense of purpose in your life.
Photo of Dr. Denise Dixon, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Dr. Denise Dixon
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in Port Jefferson, NY 11777
Suffolk Health Psychology Services, PLLC offers comprehensive evaluations & evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults. HIPAA-HITECH-compliant video conferencing software allows you to attend all appointments from the comfort and convenience of your own home! Our areas of focus include: sleep problems, anxiety, chronic medical illnesses, life-altering injuries, college stress, relaxation training, physical activity, depression / postpartum depression, PTSD, Worker’s Compensation, & Independent Medical Examinations, Our compassionate approach ensures that every individual feels valued and supported throughout their therapeutic journey. Our tailored strategies are designed to foster resilience and a renewed sense of purpose in your life.
(516) 842-1032 View (516) 842-1032
This group promotes gaining a sense of community through connecting with other mothers in a safe and nurturing space. Virtually held Thursday afternoons from 12pm-1:30pm. This 8 week group begins April 3rd and will go until May 22nd. There are 10 available spots and the cost is $50 per a group session.
Photo of Rachel Keenan, Pre-Licensed Professional
Hosted by Rachel Keenan
Pre-Licensed Professional
Group meets in Patchogue, NY 11772
This group promotes gaining a sense of community through connecting with other mothers in a safe and nurturing space. Virtually held Thursday afternoons from 12pm-1:30pm. This 8 week group begins April 3rd and will go until May 22nd. There are 10 available spots and the cost is $50 per a group session.
(332) 286-4348 View (332) 286-4348
This group will utilize Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) treatment. It will focus on triggering anxiety and teaching strategies to support you in resisting engagement in unhealthy/unhelpful behaviors. By intentionally facing things that make you anxious while resisting compulsions, the result is a significant drop in anxiety levels. While purposefully making yourself anxious may sound scary, this treatment is incredibly safe and effective! The group will run for 8-12 weeks with 55 minute sessions Members should expect out-of-office assignments each week for the purposes of habituation and mastery of skills. Call to learn more about Groups !
Photo of Catherine Nobile - Nobile Psychology, PC, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Nobile Psychology, PC
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Babylon, NY 11702
This group will utilize Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) treatment. It will focus on triggering anxiety and teaching strategies to support you in resisting engagement in unhealthy/unhelpful behaviors. By intentionally facing things that make you anxious while resisting compulsions, the result is a significant drop in anxiety levels. While purposefully making yourself anxious may sound scary, this treatment is incredibly safe and effective! The group will run for 8-12 weeks with 55 minute sessions Members should expect out-of-office assignments each week for the purposes of habituation and mastery of skills. Call to learn more about Groups !
(631) 212-1148 View (631) 212-1148
Are you tired of all the unnecessary bickering, fights, and tension that often arise in relationships? We all long for peace, happiness, and an easygoing atmosphere at home, right? Well, we have a supportive community of couples who are looking to connect, share experiences, and find solace in one another's company. It's a safe space for making new friends, venting about our partners, and building a stronger and healthier relationship.
Photo of Dimitra Kostouros-Gaitaneris - Prof. Demi Kostouros, Counselor, Lcoach, Couples, Affair, Trust, ADHD
Hosted by Prof. Demi Kostouros
Counselor, Lcoach, Couples, Affair, Trust, ADHD
Group meets in Stony Brook, NY 11790
Are you tired of all the unnecessary bickering, fights, and tension that often arise in relationships? We all long for peace, happiness, and an easygoing atmosphere at home, right? Well, we have a supportive community of couples who are looking to connect, share experiences, and find solace in one another's company. It's a safe space for making new friends, venting about our partners, and building a stronger and healthier relationship.
(929) 280-7729 View (929) 280-7729
This 26 session group is approved and recognized by the courts to address men who have issues related to power and control. The groups are interactive and always small.
Photo of Bill Solz - Stress Solutions of New York, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Hosted by Stress Solutions of New York
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Group meets in Melville, NY 11747
This 26 session group is approved and recognized by the courts to address men who have issues related to power and control. The groups are interactive and always small.
(631) 527-3114 View (631) 527-3114
The DBT skills group is an didactic-based skills group that aims to help clients learn, understand, and apply skills out of each DBT module (Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness). Groups begin with a mindfulness practice and homework review from the previous week. Each group session will teach a specific skill and provide an opportunity to discuss successful planning and implementation of the skill and factors that could make the skill challenging to practice and master.
Photo of Jeanette Lorandini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Hosted by Jeanette Lorandini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Group meets in Mount Sinai, NY 11766
The DBT skills group is an didactic-based skills group that aims to help clients learn, understand, and apply skills out of each DBT module (Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation, and Interpersonal Effectiveness). Groups begin with a mindfulness practice and homework review from the previous week. Each group session will teach a specific skill and provide an opportunity to discuss successful planning and implementation of the skill and factors that could make the skill challenging to practice and master.
(631) 479-3942 View (631) 479-3942

See more therapy options for Dix Hills

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Dix Hills?

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.