Support Groups in Pleasant Grove, UT

Whole Mind is an outpatient mental health clinic offering compassionate psychiatric care for individuals aged 13 and up. Specializing in TMS therapy for depression, Spravato treatment, ADHD testing, and comprehensive psychiatry, our board-certified psychiatrist oversees personalized, state-of-the-art treatments. We focus on enhancing mental health through a holistic approach, integrating biology, psychology, and lifestyle to help patients build a strong, resilient, and WHOLE.
Photo of Jennifer Karr, DNP, FNP-c
Hosted by Jennifer Karr
Verified Verified
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Whole Mind is an outpatient mental health clinic offering compassionate psychiatric care for individuals aged 13 and up. Specializing in TMS therapy for depression, Spravato treatment, ADHD testing, and comprehensive psychiatry, our board-certified psychiatrist oversees personalized, state-of-the-art treatments. We focus on enhancing mental health through a holistic approach, integrating biology, psychology, and lifestyle to help patients build a strong, resilient, and WHOLE.
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Located in Pleasant Grove, Utah, Willow Therapy Utah provides professional therapy and counseling services. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. Our evidence-based approach ensures personalized, effective care. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
Photo of Ashlee Allan - Willow Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Hosted by Willow Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Located in Pleasant Grove, Utah, Willow Therapy Utah provides professional therapy and counseling services. We offer individual, couples, and family therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. Our evidence-based approach ensures personalized, effective care. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
(385) 442-5293 View (385) 442-5293
I provide therapy for men in Utah who want to improve their emotional health, relationships, and sense of direction. Many men struggle silently with anxiety, depression, trauma, or compulsive behaviors. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and compassion-focused techniques to help you gain confidence, balance, and clarity. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I offer in-person and virtual sessions to make therapy comfortable and accessible.
Photo of Brennan Bellon, Counselor, ACMHC
Hosted by Brennan Bellon
Counselor, ACMHC
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
I provide therapy for men in Utah who want to improve their emotional health, relationships, and sense of direction. Many men struggle silently with anxiety, depression, trauma, or compulsive behaviors. My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and compassion-focused techniques to help you gain confidence, balance, and clarity. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I offer in-person and virtual sessions to make therapy comfortable and accessible.
(801) 980-9917 View (801) 980-9917
At True Self Counseling, we believe that each of us has inherent worth and value. We all carry within us the ability to heal, grow, and find happiness and peace. Our goal at True Self is to help our clients strengthen that inner voice, live a life consistent with their personal values and beliefs, and embrace their true self. We use play therapy, art and sand, experiential, EMDR, ART, IFS, parts work, and traditional talk therapies like ACT and DBT. We believe in authenticy, affirming care, and equality, and strive to create a space that reflects those beliefs.
Photo of Kasi M Good - True Self Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Hosted by True Self Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
At True Self Counseling, we believe that each of us has inherent worth and value. We all carry within us the ability to heal, grow, and find happiness and peace. Our goal at True Self is to help our clients strengthen that inner voice, live a life consistent with their personal values and beliefs, and embrace their true self. We use play therapy, art and sand, experiential, EMDR, ART, IFS, parts work, and traditional talk therapies like ACT and DBT. We believe in authenticy, affirming care, and equality, and strive to create a space that reflects those beliefs.
(385) 412-8335 View (385) 412-8335
Returning home from a mission can bring unexpected emotional, social, and identity challenges. I provide therapy for return missionaries in Utah who are navigating transitions, anxiety, depression, faith questions, or difficulty adjusting to everyday life. Therapy offers a supportive space to process experiences, rebuild confidence, and find direction moving forward. My approach is respectful, understanding, and tailored to the unique needs of returned missionaries.
Photo of Michaella DiRegolo, Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Hosted by Michaella DiRegolo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Returning home from a mission can bring unexpected emotional, social, and identity challenges. I provide therapy for return missionaries in Utah who are navigating transitions, anxiety, depression, faith questions, or difficulty adjusting to everyday life. Therapy offers a supportive space to process experiences, rebuild confidence, and find direction moving forward. My approach is respectful, understanding, and tailored to the unique needs of returned missionaries.
(801) 457-2991 View (801) 457-2991
Looking for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in Utah? I specialize in helping adults and teens identify unhelpful thought patterns, build healthier coping strategies, and make lasting changes. CBT is a proven approach for anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, offering practical tools to improve daily life and relationships. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I provide a supportive and personalized environment where clients can challenge negative thoughts and develop confidence. Sessions are available both in-person and online for clients across Utah.
Photo of Shannon Aaron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Shannon Aaron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Looking for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in Utah? I specialize in helping adults and teens identify unhelpful thought patterns, build healthier coping strategies, and make lasting changes. CBT is a proven approach for anxiety, depression, and mood disorders, offering practical tools to improve daily life and relationships. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I provide a supportive and personalized environment where clients can challenge negative thoughts and develop confidence. Sessions are available both in-person and online for clients across Utah.
(385) 402-8499 View (385) 402-8499
True Self Counseling specializes in working with trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, and faith transitions. We provide therapy for all ages, including experiential therapies such as play therapy, expressive arts, and sand tray. We also provide trauma therapies such as EMDR, IFS, and Brainspotting.
Photo of Kasi Good, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Hosted by Kasi Good
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
True Self Counseling specializes in working with trauma, LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety, and faith transitions. We provide therapy for all ages, including experiential therapies such as play therapy, expressive arts, and sand tray. We also provide trauma therapies such as EMDR, IFS, and Brainspotting.
(801) 876-7895 View (801) 876-7895
As a United States Air Force veteran and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in trauma-focused therapy for veterans, first responders, and individuals coping with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I provide evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Processing Therapy, to help clients process difficult experiences, rebuild resilience, and regain a sense of control. Whether you are a service member, veteran, or civilian navigating trauma, I offer a safe, supportive space for healing. Both in-person and online therapy sessions are available.
Photo of Alisha Delacruz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Alisha Delacruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
As a United States Air Force veteran and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in trauma-focused therapy for veterans, first responders, and individuals coping with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I provide evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Processing Therapy, to help clients process difficult experiences, rebuild resilience, and regain a sense of control. Whether you are a service member, veteran, or civilian navigating trauma, I offer a safe, supportive space for healing. Both in-person and online therapy sessions are available.
(801) 683-1038 View (801) 683-1038
Our mission at Actually Connect Counseling is to utilize our training and skills to assist every person who comes through our doors towards actual, real connections, healing, and emotional and mental stability. We believe that CONNECTION is the opposite of addiction and is the balm that aids in, and heals, so many emotional wounds. Our therapy is grounded in attachment based methods and research and is focused on helping everyone to actually connect with others and with the world around them. We believe in healing from trauma. We have EMDR trained therapists , with advanced EMDR training and certification.
Photo of Cassie Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW
Hosted by Cassie Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Our mission at Actually Connect Counseling is to utilize our training and skills to assist every person who comes through our doors towards actual, real connections, healing, and emotional and mental stability. We believe that CONNECTION is the opposite of addiction and is the balm that aids in, and heals, so many emotional wounds. Our therapy is grounded in attachment based methods and research and is focused on helping everyone to actually connect with others and with the world around them. We believe in healing from trauma. We have EMDR trained therapists , with advanced EMDR training and certification.
(385) 274-0573 View (385) 274-0573
I provide counseling in both English and Spanish for individuals, teens, couples, and families in Utah. As a bilingual therapist, I help clients from Hispanic and Latino communities feel fully understood and supported while navigating anxiety, depression, family conflict, and life transitions. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I create a welcoming, culturally sensitive environment for healing and growth. Therapy is available in-person and virtually, making it easy to connect no matter where you are in Utah.
Photo of Alexis Acosta, Counselor, ACMHC
Hosted by Alexis Acosta
Counselor, ACMHC
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
I provide counseling in both English and Spanish for individuals, teens, couples, and families in Utah. As a bilingual therapist, I help clients from Hispanic and Latino communities feel fully understood and supported while navigating anxiety, depression, family conflict, and life transitions. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I create a welcoming, culturally sensitive environment for healing and growth. Therapy is available in-person and virtually, making it easy to connect no matter where you are in Utah.
(385) 417-4196 View (385) 417-4196
This is a group for people who are going through a faith crisis/deconstruction and want a support group to help them in that transition to what comes next.. For those seeking to leave their faith, many times it is more difficult than expected due to the belief system linked to religious dogma over the course of a lifetime. It can be a source of loss of identity, of community, as well as core shame linked to beliefs inherent in the religious system, & how it impacts not just you, but your family system. You MUST preregister to join this group.
Photo of Joyce R Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Hosted by Joyce R Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
This is a group for people who are going through a faith crisis/deconstruction and want a support group to help them in that transition to what comes next.. For those seeking to leave their faith, many times it is more difficult than expected due to the belief system linked to religious dogma over the course of a lifetime. It can be a source of loss of identity, of community, as well as core shame linked to beliefs inherent in the religious system, & how it impacts not just you, but your family system. You MUST preregister to join this group.
(385) 438-8034 View (385) 438-8034
Are you feeling overwhelmed from trying to be perfect? Maybe you have been impacted by divorce, personal abuse, or the loneliness associated with expectations of family, children or work? Regardless of the difficulty life can throw at you, you need to know there is help. This group provides a safe place for healing, with others who know the places you have been emotionally. This group provides a therapeutic setting where you can find healing from personal trauma, find support and solidarity, gain valuable tools for stress coping, get encouragement to make critical changes, and learn how to establish healthy boundaries.
Photo of Jennifer Howard, Counselor, MS, CMHC
Hosted by Jennifer Howard
Counselor, MS, CMHC
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Are you feeling overwhelmed from trying to be perfect? Maybe you have been impacted by divorce, personal abuse, or the loneliness associated with expectations of family, children or work? Regardless of the difficulty life can throw at you, you need to know there is help. This group provides a safe place for healing, with others who know the places you have been emotionally. This group provides a therapeutic setting where you can find healing from personal trauma, find support and solidarity, gain valuable tools for stress coping, get encouragement to make critical changes, and learn how to establish healthy boundaries.
(801) 948-3855 View (801) 948-3855
I provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in Utah for clients working through trauma, PTSD, and distressing life experiences. EMDR helps the brain reprocess painful memories, reduce emotional intensity, and create lasting relief. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I offer a safe and supportive environment for healing, combining EMDR with other evidence-based approaches. Sessions are available both in-person and virtually across Utah, making therapy accessible and effective no matter where you are.
Photo of Jeanna Cunningham, Counselor, PhD, CMHC
Hosted by Jeanna Cunningham
Counselor, PhD, CMHC
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
I provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy in Utah for clients working through trauma, PTSD, and distressing life experiences. EMDR helps the brain reprocess painful memories, reduce emotional intensity, and create lasting relief. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I offer a safe and supportive environment for healing, combining EMDR with other evidence-based approaches. Sessions are available both in-person and virtually across Utah, making therapy accessible and effective no matter where you are.
(385) 350-4393 View (385) 350-4393
I provide virtual therapy for individuals in Utah who want convenient and flexible mental health support from the comfort of home. Online therapy can help with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and relationship concerns. Virtual sessions offer the same supportive and collaborative environment as in-person therapy while making care more accessible for busy schedules. Telehealth sessions are available for clients throughout Utah.
Photo of McKenzie Bolen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Hosted by McKenzie Bolen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
I provide virtual therapy for individuals in Utah who want convenient and flexible mental health support from the comfort of home. Online therapy can help with anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, and relationship concerns. Virtual sessions offer the same supportive and collaborative environment as in-person therapy while making care more accessible for busy schedules. Telehealth sessions are available for clients throughout Utah.
(385) 832-6266 View (385) 832-6266
Eating disorders can affect your relationship with food, body image, and self-worth. I provide eating disorder therapy in Utah for individuals struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, emotional eating, and disordered eating patterns. Therapy focuses on building a healthier relationship with food, addressing underlying emotional concerns, and developing sustainable coping skills. My approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and tailored to your unique needs. In-person sessions in Pleasant Grove and online therapy options are available.
Photo of Mariah Frias, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Mariah Frias
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Eating disorders can affect your relationship with food, body image, and self-worth. I provide eating disorder therapy in Utah for individuals struggling with anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, emotional eating, and disordered eating patterns. Therapy focuses on building a healthier relationship with food, addressing underlying emotional concerns, and developing sustainable coping skills. My approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and tailored to your unique needs. In-person sessions in Pleasant Grove and online therapy options are available.
(801) 701-2035 View (801) 701-2035
Shop our monthly free gender-affirming community closet! We have pants, shirts, dresses, skirts, sweaters, shorts, accessories and more! We also have clothing in all shapes, sizes, and styles. For dates and times, please visit our website or @lexiekattelman on Instagram. To donate, please bring clean gently used clothing and accessories to the receptionist at True Self Counseling.
Photo of Lexie Kattelman, Counselor, CMHC
Hosted by Lexie Kattelman
Counselor, CMHC
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
Shop our monthly free gender-affirming community closet! We have pants, shirts, dresses, skirts, sweaters, shorts, accessories and more! We also have clothing in all shapes, sizes, and styles. For dates and times, please visit our website or @lexiekattelman on Instagram. To donate, please bring clean gently used clothing and accessories to the receptionist at True Self Counseling.
(385) 832-6052 View (385) 832-6052
I provide Christian counseling in Utah, integrating faith with evidence-based therapy to support individuals, couples, and families. Many clients seek guidance that honors both their spiritual beliefs and their emotional well-being. Together, we can explore challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and life transitions through a Christ-centered lens. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I offer compassionate counseling grounded in both faith and clinical expertise. Sessions are available in-person or virtually across Utah.
Photo of Sam Major, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Hosted by Sam Major
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
I provide Christian counseling in Utah, integrating faith with evidence-based therapy to support individuals, couples, and families. Many clients seek guidance that honors both their spiritual beliefs and their emotional well-being. Together, we can explore challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and life transitions through a Christ-centered lens. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I offer compassionate counseling grounded in both faith and clinical expertise. Sessions are available in-person or virtually across Utah.
(385) 993-5226 View (385) 993-5226
We provide sex therapy in Utah, helping individuals and couples navigate intimacy concerns, relationship challenges, and sexual health issues in a safe, supportive environment. Many people struggle with communication, desire differences, or the impact of stress, trauma, and anxiety on intimacy. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I offer compassionate, evidence-based counseling to improve connection and confidence. Sessions are available in-person or virtually across Utah, giving you a private and professional space to grow.
Photo of Ivy Christiansen, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Ivy Christiansen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
We provide sex therapy in Utah, helping individuals and couples navigate intimacy concerns, relationship challenges, and sexual health issues in a safe, supportive environment. Many people struggle with communication, desire differences, or the impact of stress, trauma, and anxiety on intimacy. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I offer compassionate, evidence-based counseling to improve connection and confidence. Sessions are available in-person or virtually across Utah, giving you a private and professional space to grow.
(385) 786-8224 View (385) 786-8224
LDS members often want therapy that respects faith, values, and the role of the Church in daily life. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families who want a Christ-centered approach while working through anxiety, depression, relationship stress, life transitions, and personal growth. We can integrate gospel principles, spiritual practices, and your personal beliefs in a way that feels supportive—not forced. My goal is to help you feel understood, strengthen coping skills, and build a healthier, more peaceful life. Sessions are available in Pleasant Grove, Utah, and online.
Photo of Sam Major, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Hosted by Sam Major
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
LDS members often want therapy that respects faith, values, and the role of the Church in daily life. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families who want a Christ-centered approach while working through anxiety, depression, relationship stress, life transitions, and personal growth. We can integrate gospel principles, spiritual practices, and your personal beliefs in a way that feels supportive—not forced. My goal is to help you feel understood, strengthen coping skills, and build a healthier, more peaceful life. Sessions are available in Pleasant Grove, Utah, and online.
(385) 993-5226 View (385) 993-5226
I specialize in therapy for children and teens with autism, supporting both clients and their families in building communication, emotional regulation, and social skills. Therapy can also help reduce anxiety, manage behavioral challenges, and strengthen family connections. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I provide compassionate, individualized care tailored to each child’s needs. In-person and online sessions are available, helping families across Utah access the support they need.
Photo of Jeanna Cunningham, Counselor, PhD, CMHC
Hosted by Jeanna Cunningham
Counselor, PhD, CMHC
Group meets in Pleasant Grove, UT 84062
I specialize in therapy for children and teens with autism, supporting both clients and their families in building communication, emotional regulation, and social skills. Therapy can also help reduce anxiety, manage behavioral challenges, and strengthen family connections. At Willow Therapy Utah in Pleasant Grove, I provide compassionate, individualized care tailored to each child’s needs. In-person and online sessions are available, helping families across Utah access the support they need.
(385) 350-4393 View (385) 350-4393

See more therapy options for Pleasant Grove

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Pleasant Grove?

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.