Support Groups in Fairfax, VA

As women, we face many daily challenges and stressors. The purpose of the W.O.W group is to provide a supportive, and nurturing group therapy atmosphere to work through the daily struggles women encounter. Group members, together with a licensed professional will work through life's challenges and stressors. The mission of the group is to provide the cohesion and support that group therapy provides along with tools and techniques to implement in coping with stress and life transitions. In the W.O.W group you will make connections with other members and foster bonds of trust and support.
Photo of Nancy Shawki - Vanguard Therapy, LLC., Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Hosted by Vanguard Therapy, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22031
We are a Virtual/Remote Practice! We have immediate availability for anyone seeking to schedule as soon as possible! Contact us to schedule an appointment. We are happy to help you. We have been in practice for over 12 years and we are happy to help! Do you feel alone and unsure of your purpose in life? Are you always feeling anxious or depressed? Do you find that living life and getting out of bed daily is a struggle and oftentimes impossible? We can help you by providing a compassionate, nurturing,and non-judgemental environment to express your deepest thoughts and feelings and explore ways to resolve the problems you encounter.
(703) 935-8314 View (703) 935-8314
Open group for adult men with compulsive and/or addictive sexual behaviors and or problematic use of pornography without legal involvement.
Photo of Tracey E Guard, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSOTP, CSAT
Hosted by Tracey E Guard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSOTP, CSAT
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
Problematic use of pornography? Promiscuous sexual behavior that is impacting your relationships? Legal involvement as the result of sexual behavior? I can help you understand where and how these behaviors originate and give you the tools to implement change which will in turn assist in gaining more meaningful and fulfilling relationships.
(703) 457-8839 View (703) 457-8839
This is a 6 week group / class offered to couples at varying times and at different locations throughout northern Virginia.
Photo of Glen Denlinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Hosted by Glen Denlinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I am the President & Clinical Director of Well Marriage Center, LLC. Couples counseling is my specialty and what I offer exclusively. For over 35 years I've helped couples change the trajectory of their relationship with counseling and coaching techniques that heal trust, rekindle intimacy, and increase the positive aspects of your relationship. I listen intently but don't only listen; you get my thoughts, ideas, suggestions and feedback every step of the way. I'm active with you in this process. Please click on the "visit my website" tab under my picture to learn more about my specialty.
(540) 268-0921 View (540) 268-0921
This group is for women who have maybe lived in heterosexual circles or are married with kids who are questioning their sexuality, are ready to come out, are not ready but want to talk about it, religious or not, or are staying the course but need a community of other women who understand this experience.
Photo of Noelle Castoro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Hosted by Noelle Castoro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I work with adolescents and adults experiencing disordered eating and people seeking to make peace with food and their body. My work also includes people in relationships and individuals experiencing sexual problems, separation and divorce, infidelity, and co-parenting. I use a nonjudgemental, collaborative, person-centered approach to address the individual's needs. I work with individuals to help them recognize their own strengths and incorporate positive coping strategies as they move forward. I believe that creating trust and a little bit of humor go a long way in working through the struggles we face in life.
(571) 450-8941 View (571) 450-8941
Our child social skills group will be led by Dr. Emily Claus and will focus primarily on providing your child with the skills that they'll need to develop and maintain healthy relationships as well as learning and developing essential life skills. Our group setting will be safe and supportive and parents will be looped in and provided resources to help continue skill development at home. Our group will meet every Tuesday at 5pm.
Photo of Emily Claus, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Hosted by Emily Claus
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I am a license eligible clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults. I'm trained in play and individual therapy for issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to ADHD, autism spectrum and other behavioral disorders. Some of specialties include psychological trauma (sexual/physical abuse, neglect) and LGBT issues. I also conducts psychological evaluations and assessments to help develop a more clear mental health diagnosis. I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and completed her clinical internship at Pennsylvania Counseling Services.
(703) 639-4155 View (703) 639-4155
If COVID19 has impacted your family building plans, please join me virtually each Friday. Contact me directly for additional details and the video link.
Photo of Phyllis Fortunato, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Hosted by Phyllis Fortunato
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I am available for tele-therapy sessions at this time using a secure platform. As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Northern Virginia for 20 years, I attend to many areas of mental health including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career problems, grief, trauma, and life phases that are challenging. I have a collaborative, pragmatic, respectful counseling style that promotes self reflection, understanding and tolerance.
(703) 794-2167 View (703) 794-2167
For clients with the ongoing goal of living a clean and sober life.
Photo of Maria A Hylton - Maria A Hylton, LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hosted by Maria A Hylton, LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
Has your life gotten off track? Do you need an ASAM substance abuse evaluation pre or post court due to an alcohol/drug related charge? Has alcohol affected your health or liver status? Are your life goals on hold because of an alcohol/drug related issue? Is it time to evaluate your relationship with alcohol/drugs and make some changes? Do you need outpatient follow up from intensive treatment? Are issues such as depression, anxiety, stress management, life skills, grief, post partum depression, or adoption getting in your way? Come meet with a counselor skilled in substance abuse and mental health services to discuss options.
(703) 476-2348 View (703) 476-2348
DBT Multifamily Skills Group is a telehealth group where teens and their family members learn Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to improve communication, emotional regulation, and relationship dynamics. Participants practice mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness in real-life contexts. The group fosters a supportive environment for individuals and their loved ones to understand and manage intense emotions, reduce conflict, and build healthier connections. Joining provides valuable tools for navigating life’s challenges, improving family bonds, and enhancing overall mental well-being. (In order to attend group your teen must be seeing a DBT therapist at our practice.)
Photo of Lori Zastrow-D B T, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Hosted by Lori Zastrow-D B T
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, LCPC
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22033
Accepting NEW Clients (5/7/25)! Overwhelming emotions? Trauma? Impulsive behavior? Healing isn’t just possible — it’s within your reach. As a Dialectical Behavior Therapist, I specialize in helping people become MORE present, LESS reactive, and BETTER equipped to navigate life’s challenges. Together, we’ll work toward skillfully regulating your emotions (according to your goals), enhancing your relationships, and fostering a sense of personal control over your life. DBT Treatment extends beyond weekly sessions and includes FREE phone coaching to help you practice the skills you are learning in therapy, in real life.
(571) 621-6265 View (571) 621-6265
Join our Self-Care for Parents group—a six-week virtual experience designed to help you pause, recharge, and rediscover your calm. This supportive program, led by Dr. Megan Thomas, offers practical tools and guided relaxation techniques to enhance your well-being. The group meets virtually every Wednesday at 1 PM, from January 22nd to February 26th, so you can attend from the comfort of your home or office.
Photo of Jennifer Shore - Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness, Psychologist
Hosted by Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness
Psychologist
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
Fairfax Mental Health and Wellness (FMHW) provides integrated mental health services to the greater Virginia/Maryland/DC area. We treat a wide range of conditions including but limited to anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, OCD, Adjustment Disorders, Mood Disorders and more. We treat patients ranging in age from 5 to 60. Our practice was founded in 2013 by Dr. Jennifer Shore and now employs over 40 clinical staff including psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, psychologists, counselors, social workers and doctoral interns.
(571) 556-8535 View (571) 556-8535
Photo of Laveena Khanchandani, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Laveena Khanchandani
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
(571) 260-8034 View (571) 260-8034
SPACE stands for Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions and is parent-based treatment program for children and adolescents with anxiety, OCD, and related problems pioneered by Dr. Eli Lebowitz at The Yale Child Study Center. This group offers support for parents **who have completed or who are completing individual SPACE treatment 1:1 outside of group**. We meet bi-weekly to share successes and struggles navigating SPACE treatment. Parents are encouraged to connect outside of group: it takes a village- let us be yours.
Photo of Dani Fein, Resident in Counseling, JD, MEd
Hosted by Dani Fein
Resident in Counseling, JD, MEd
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
Whether you are new to therapy or just new to me, choosing a therapist can feel overwhelming. I offer warmth, compassion, and non-judgmental kindness from our first consultation call to the moment you decide you are ready for our time together to end. My clients are teens & adults seeking support in cultivating resilience, peace, joy & connection in a busy world. I provide a calm space to get curious about understanding & addressing anxiety, depression, and trauma. Interrupting cycles of using perfectionism, overwork, disordered eating, or using substances to hide, numb, or cope is not something you need to do alone.
(571) 368-4245 View (571) 368-4245
Pause to practice using the emotion regulating techniques that many of us know, but struggle to implement consistently. In group we use breath work, body movement, thoughtful attention, and visualization to improve our ability to: notice, name, and tolerate our emotions, pause and observe our experiences without reacting to them, and stay connected to the present moment. Research has shown that engaging in practices like these can reduce stress and emotional reactivity, lift mood, improve working memory and cognitive flexibility, and increase relationship satisfaction (APA, 2012).
Photo of Meagan Chevalier, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Meagan Chevalier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I help clients better access their own innate ability to heal and change. I integrate relational, experiential, and trauma informed approaches in my work with teenagers, adults, couples, and families. My work, first and foremost, is collaborative. I take great care to utilize the therapeutic approaches that best respond to my client’s needs, personality, lifestyle, and background. I learned many of the approaches that I lean on most heavily in response to what clients brought into my office.
(571) 616-9783 View (571) 616-9783
The journey to health & wholeness looks different for everyone. We walk alongside you, helping navigate your unique path. Therapy is a collaborative relationship, built on trust & empathy. Combining your strengths & our expertise, we'll help you get to the root of your problems & keep moving forward— finding hopeful solutions for you & your family. Our mission is to provide the highest quality care & personal growth opportunities for our clients in a safe, trusting, & compassionate environment. Our team works together, integrating best-practice models & cutting-edge research to provide comprehensive care tailored to your needs, for Families, Individuals, Couples, Children & Teens. (https://findingyoursolution.com/)
Photo of C Coulter Weaver III, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Hosted by C Coulter Weaver III
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I have extensive expertise helping individuals find hope and healing in their struggles with stress, anxiety, addiction, or feeling depressed. I have counseled and coached others in the areas of premarital and marriage counseling, parenting, and child-adolescence therapy. Through a holistic counseling approach I integrate effective insights from psychology, biology, and social sciences. My career in counseling began over 30 years ago, by providing counseling services for individuals, couples, and families. I'm also a retired teacher from FCPS/FCCPS school systems, where I taught IB Psychology and worked with students that had IEPs.
(571) 601-4285 View (571) 601-4285
Group being offered to first time college /university students. Topics will include addressing safety, managing classes, well being, nutrition, conflicts, adjustment to being away from home, budgeting.
Photo of Tawanda Turner Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Tawanda Turner Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I have over 35 years providing counseling. My work has included individual, child and adolescent treatment as well as family/couples counseling. I specialize in providing support in the treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and marital discord. Additionally, I have had the honor of providing support to military and Foreign Service Officers', federal government workers and their families. I provide supportive counseling to a clients with a diverse cultural background. The time is now to begin your emotional healing and to renew your Hope for Today and the Future.
(571) 200-9872 View (571) 200-9872
A process group for adults who have done trauma work and would like additional support, connection, and to share their story. Learn coping, grounding, and integration as it specifically relates to trauma along with other people who have similar life experiences. This group is currently being run in teletherapy with the intent to continue in person.
Photo of Maureen S Bethea, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Hosted by Maureen S Bethea
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
We know that humans are wired for resilience and connection. My expertise is in helping people and relationships heal from difficult experiences to find a way to thrive. Whether you are struggling with issues involving anxiety or depression, relationship struggles, or processing past wounds, I guide clients with a strength-based, kind, and direct approach. Finding a good fit is the most important & perhaps hardest part of beginning therapy. I would be happy to talk with you about we can address specific goals you are hoping to work through in a calm, safe place.
(571) 596-6198 View (571) 596-6198
A process group with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) methodologies incorporated. Teens learn to identify, talk about and cope with feelings of anxiety and/or depression that comes with navigating this age. Teens will experience the empathy from others their age who are struggling with similar concerns, while also learning to share empathy and connections. Two groups available Mondays at 6 and Tuesdays at 6. This is an open, ongoing group, Co-led with Danielle Causley, LCSW.
Photo of Liz Mathews-Jolley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Hosted by Liz Mathews-Jolley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
It may seem that things are overwhelming and somewhat hopeless now. You do have strengths and the ability to make changes. Overcoming hopelessness, anxiety and depression often takes guidance. With my years of experience working with teens, young adults, adults, couples and groups, we will identify your strengths and put a plan in place to use those strengths to navigate life's challenges. My extensive experience includes working with people with neuro-diversity (Autism, ADHD, Intellectual Disabilities) and LGBTQ+ individuals.
(571) 200-7229 View (571) 200-7229
Are you living with chronic pain and looking for support, understanding, and practical tools to manage daily challenges? Join our Virtual Chronic Pain Support Group—a safe, compassionate space where individuals come together to share experiences, learn coping strategies, and build resilience.
Photo of Dr. Sheena Horsford, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Hosted by Dr. Sheena Horsford
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22031
Have you been feeling unhappy, stressed, and alone in your relationship? Have you and and your significant other had difficulty with communication and sexual intimacy? A forgotten call back, or canceled date night feels like a major set back in your marriage. Imagine a future where you can resolve conflict healthy, your feelings are valued, and you have an exciting sexual relationship. You don't have to do this on your own, I am here to help heal and strengthen your relationship. Continue reading to learn how to book a session with me.
(804) 207-5503 View (804) 207-5503
Please join our weekly group every Tuesday at 5pm where we will work on conversation skills, joining in, listening, attention, emotional awareness, managing anger and avoiding bullying. Our group will have a maximum of 7 children and while we'll be working, your kids will never know it. We'll incorporate fun and games so that your child will feel more comfortable with the psychologist as well as the other kids. This group is perfect for kids with social anxiety, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other issues that may be affecting their relationships.
Photo of Jennifer Shore, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Jennifer Shore
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuropsychological assessments and pre-surgical evaluations as well as psychotherapy. I am a certified ADHD specialist. I have a wide range of experiences that enable me to listen, assess, and diagnose a variety of psychological and educational issues. I use an integrative approach to therapy which allows me to tailor overall therapeutic goals as well as target each individual session to meet your needs at that point in time. I have weekly availability for fitness for duty and pre-surgical evals for weight loss surgery (bariatric), spinal cord stimulators and IVF.
(703) 498-2547 View (703) 498-2547
With a combination of psycho-education, in-session modeling, and interpersonal processing, we will work to help you meet your goals and live an emotionally healthier life. Thrive groups are for men who desire to do more than just survive in their relationships with themselves and those they care about. Improve your understanding of yourself and your relationships with others by participating in our 13-week in-person men’s groups starting Saturday, February 22nd, 2025. Sign-up link: https://member. psychologytoday.com/us/profile/groups
Photo of Andrew (Andy) E. Hart, Resident in Counseling
Hosted by Andrew (Andy) E. Hart
Resident in Counseling
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
Each of us faces different challenges in our lives. It can be difficult to navigate them alone. We must learn to adapt to the expected and unexpected changes in life. During these times of change, it is helpful to have empathetic and caring support to understand what you are going through and find a way to adjust. Whether it is walking through the inevitable challenges of a relationship, career transitions or facing the unexpected “curve balls” of mental health and addictions, we can work together to understand how best to face them.
(571) 556-3731 View (571) 556-3731
Process group for teen girls navigating today's complicated world. We process anxiety including social anxiety,panic, low self-esteem, body image issues and negative thinking patterns. We cover issues related to depression, school stress, and parental conflict. This group is limited to 6-8 clients at a time and pre-screening is recommended for the best fit of clients to form a cohesive and supportive group environment. Contact directly if interested and for more details.
Photo of Jessica O. Hunter, Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Hosted by Jessica O. Hunter
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Group meets in Fairfax, VA 22030
I enjoy the opportunity to work with clients in individual psychotherapy, couples therapy and family work (adolescents/adults/older adults). Many of my clients are challenged by depression, anxiety, relationship obstacles, low self-esteem, mood disorders, eating disorders, attachment issues and grief and life transition struggles. In my practice, I work with a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic theory, and attachment-based couples treatment and to work with the client collaboratively in the treatment process. In addition, I administer psychological testing to clients (ages 7+ to adulthood).
(703) 634-9965 View (703) 634-9965
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FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Fairfax?

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.