Support Groups in McLean, VA

These groups are for boys and girls ages 6-10 who struggle with social skills issues. They have a maximum of six participants. They are co-led by two therapists and focuses on helping children develop and maintain freindships, learn to read social cues, improve self esteem, identify and process feelings, improve cooperative play, and establish better boundaries.
Photo of Anne Fleury, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Hosted by Anne Fleury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
These groups are for boys and girls ages 6-10 who struggle with social skills issues. They have a maximum of six participants. They are co-led by two therapists and focuses on helping children develop and maintain freindships, learn to read social cues, improve self esteem, identify and process feelings, improve cooperative play, and establish better boundaries.
(703) 282-5937 View (703) 282-5937
Parenting is challenging at any level; being aware of our feelings and yet being aware of our child's feelings goes a long way in successful relationship. Goal is of self awareness, other awareness, and bringing the insight of awareness in the present moment. This helps us in being pro-active rather than reactive, and prevents outbursts that might happen at times, simply leading to a healthy approach of creating a safe space to share.
Photo of Mala K Tandon - Mindful One LLC, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Mindful One LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in McLean, VA 22102
Parenting is challenging at any level; being aware of our feelings and yet being aware of our child's feelings goes a long way in successful relationship. Goal is of self awareness, other awareness, and bringing the insight of awareness in the present moment. This helps us in being pro-active rather than reactive, and prevents outbursts that might happen at times, simply leading to a healthy approach of creating a safe space to share.
(703) 596-8316 View (703) 596-8316
Our high school support group is a non judgemental, safe space for teens to open up about difficult emotions or experiences and receive support, validation, and peer connection. Our members will not only be able to talk about their own experiences, but learn how to listen to others, develop self awareness, and respond to peers with empathy. As counselors, we will provide psychoeducation when necessary and facilitate meaningful conversation in the group. This is an ongoing, intimate group of up to 8 participants ranging from grades 9-12.
Photo of Rachel Stewart, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Hosted by Rachel Stewart
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
Our high school support group is a non judgemental, safe space for teens to open up about difficult emotions or experiences and receive support, validation, and peer connection. Our members will not only be able to talk about their own experiences, but learn how to listen to others, develop self awareness, and respond to peers with empathy. As counselors, we will provide psychoeducation when necessary and facilitate meaningful conversation in the group. This is an ongoing, intimate group of up to 8 participants ranging from grades 9-12.
(571) 946-8139 View (571) 946-8139
The primary goals of adolescent groups are to provide a safe environment for preadolescents and adolescents to talk about peer pressure, process their feelings about social interactions, develop and maintain friendships, increase self esteem, and improve family relationships. These groups are tailored to address specific issues raised by group members. Past topics have included stress reduction, anxiety management, dream analysis, body image and mood swings.
Photo of Nicole W McGarry, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Nicole W McGarry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
The primary goals of adolescent groups are to provide a safe environment for preadolescents and adolescents to talk about peer pressure, process their feelings about social interactions, develop and maintain friendships, increase self esteem, and improve family relationships. These groups are tailored to address specific issues raised by group members. Past topics have included stress reduction, anxiety management, dream analysis, body image and mood swings.
(202) 684-2058 View (202) 684-2058
Social skills group designed to support children with in developing patience, cooperation, and self-confidence. Led by Victoria Prisco, Special Education Teacher and Licensed Professional Counselor, this group offers a unique approach through engaging sessions held on a private Minecraft Realm alongside Google Meets. Children will work on emotional regulation, turn-taking, and collaborative play within a safe and interactive online environment. Sessions are held every Tuesday at 4:30 pm ET. In-network with United Healthcare, Cigna, Aetna, UHC EAP. Reach out for an insurance quote or for more information.
Photo of Victoria Prisco, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCAT, LPC, MSEd
Hosted by Victoria Prisco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCAT, LPC, MSEd
Group meets in McLean, VA 22102
Social skills group designed to support children with in developing patience, cooperation, and self-confidence. Led by Victoria Prisco, Special Education Teacher and Licensed Professional Counselor, this group offers a unique approach through engaging sessions held on a private Minecraft Realm alongside Google Meets. Children will work on emotional regulation, turn-taking, and collaborative play within a safe and interactive online environment. Sessions are held every Tuesday at 4:30 pm ET. In-network with United Healthcare, Cigna, Aetna, UHC EAP. Reach out for an insurance quote or for more information.
(754) 239-3487 View (754) 239-3487
Specialize in cross-cultural counseling. Have visited many nations. Specialize in individual and couples therapy. Been in practice 30 years. Extensive experience with EAP. Security clearance. Worked as a contractor with various federal agencies. Virginia gubernatorial appointee to a state board -- Virginia Board of Counseling. Provide also online and virtual counseling.
Photo of Sandy C Malawer, Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Hosted by Sandy C Malawer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
Specialize in cross-cultural counseling. Have visited many nations. Specialize in individual and couples therapy. Been in practice 30 years. Extensive experience with EAP. Security clearance. Worked as a contractor with various federal agencies. Virginia gubernatorial appointee to a state board -- Virginia Board of Counseling. Provide also online and virtual counseling.
(703) 293-5440 View (703) 293-5440
This on-line autism affinity and support group offers connection, psychoeducation, and neuroaffirmating support for late in life identified Autistic women and non-binary individuals. A young adult option is offered as well. Newly identified people have a unique experience of processing their life through a new lens and transitioning sense of self. Topics of exploration include identity, sensory stimulation, emotional regulation, executive function, masking, burnout, disclosure, self-acceptance and compassion. This 12-week online group, offers a safe and empathic setting to promote authentic understanding of oneself and a collective sense of belonging. Consultations are complimentary. I look forward to hearing from you!
Photo of Sondra Wolff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Hosted by Sondra Wolff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
This on-line autism affinity and support group offers connection, psychoeducation, and neuroaffirmating support for late in life identified Autistic women and non-binary individuals. A young adult option is offered as well. Newly identified people have a unique experience of processing their life through a new lens and transitioning sense of self. Topics of exploration include identity, sensory stimulation, emotional regulation, executive function, masking, burnout, disclosure, self-acceptance and compassion. This 12-week online group, offers a safe and empathic setting to promote authentic understanding of oneself and a collective sense of belonging. Consultations are complimentary. I look forward to hearing from you!
(703) 794-4514 View (703) 794-4514
The Hold Me Tight Program is a 16 hour educational course for couples hoping to foster a deeper connection with their partner. The program is based on the theory and practice of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. Couples will learn about the seven conversations laid out in the book Hold Me Tight. Experienced therapists will facilitate the group using presentations, video clips and in-class exercises.
Photo of Luann C Oliver - LuAnn C. Oliver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Hosted by LuAnn C. Oliver, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
The Hold Me Tight Program is a 16 hour educational course for couples hoping to foster a deeper connection with their partner. The program is based on the theory and practice of Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. Couples will learn about the seven conversations laid out in the book Hold Me Tight. Experienced therapists will facilitate the group using presentations, video clips and in-class exercises.
(703) 991-7301 View (703) 991-7301
Sexual Compulsion men's groups suitable for non offenders. Beginners at 4pm Thursday and Advanced at 7pm Also on line via Zoom.
Photo of Geoff Michaelson, Psychologist, PhD
Hosted by Geoff Michaelson
Psychologist, PhD
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
Sexual Compulsion men's groups suitable for non offenders. Beginners at 4pm Thursday and Advanced at 7pm Also on line via Zoom.
(571) 202-7281 View (571) 202-7281
The therapeutic walking group is intended for adults who are dealing with depression or anxiety. There is a large body of evidence suggesting that exercise can have a significant positive impact on mood. This group involves moderate walking in a nature preserve once a week while participating in a group therapy to assist members with challenging life issues.
Photo of Jennifer Lager, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Jennifer Lager
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
The therapeutic walking group is intended for adults who are dealing with depression or anxiety. There is a large body of evidence suggesting that exercise can have a significant positive impact on mood. This group involves moderate walking in a nature preserve once a week while participating in a group therapy to assist members with challenging life issues.
(703) 594-1913 View (703) 594-1913
Lifestyle medicine applies evidence-based, whole-person lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, sleep, stress management, positive social connections) to prevent, treat, or reverse conditions such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders. At Park Psychiatry, we recognized many of our patients had the desire to incorporate the principles of lifestyle medicine into their daily lives, but did not have the knowledge or support to do so in a way that would achieve long-term, sustainable change. We offer individual lifestyle medicine consultations and weekly groups to support you along your journey to optimize overall health and wellness.
Photo of Meghan Shank, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Hosted by Meghan Shank
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
Lifestyle medicine applies evidence-based, whole-person lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, sleep, stress management, positive social connections) to prevent, treat, or reverse conditions such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders. At Park Psychiatry, we recognized many of our patients had the desire to incorporate the principles of lifestyle medicine into their daily lives, but did not have the knowledge or support to do so in a way that would achieve long-term, sustainable change. We offer individual lifestyle medicine consultations and weekly groups to support you along your journey to optimize overall health and wellness.
(571) 450-9851 View (571) 450-9851
Sound Body & Mind Psychiatric Services was created under the philosophy of recognizing both emotional/psychological and physical/medical factors that result in psychiatric symptoms--treating the whole person, and not just the disease Dr. Eva Theodosiadis, M.D., collaborating with Dr. Debra N. Brosius, Psy.D. for several years, sharing a collaborative outlook to providing care. Due to the growing needs of the McLean and Washington DC Metro Area, we are pleased the Integrated Psychological Associates of McLean. We will be offering more extensive services in psychological assessment, CBT, brief dynamic therapies, DBT, couples therapy, family therapy, and play therapy.
Hosted by Eva Maria Theodosiadis
Psychiatrist, MD
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
Sound Body & Mind Psychiatric Services was created under the philosophy of recognizing both emotional/psychological and physical/medical factors that result in psychiatric symptoms--treating the whole person, and not just the disease Dr. Eva Theodosiadis, M.D., collaborating with Dr. Debra N. Brosius, Psy.D. for several years, sharing a collaborative outlook to providing care. Due to the growing needs of the McLean and Washington DC Metro Area, we are pleased the Integrated Psychological Associates of McLean. We will be offering more extensive services in psychological assessment, CBT, brief dynamic therapies, DBT, couples therapy, family therapy, and play therapy.
(571) 414-0538 View (571) 414-0538
Led by a mental performance consultant, this group offers injured athletes a place to share their struggles and learn mental skills that will improve their recovery and return to play status. Having a group of peers who understand what you are going through and support your recovery can be invaluable. Research shows that athletes who participate in mental skills training while injured recover better! During rehab, training your physical skills has to pause, training your mental game does not.
Photo of Brenna Chirby - MindBalanceSPORT, Psychologist
Hosted by MindBalanceSPORT
Psychologist
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
Led by a mental performance consultant, this group offers injured athletes a place to share their struggles and learn mental skills that will improve their recovery and return to play status. Having a group of peers who understand what you are going through and support your recovery can be invaluable. Research shows that athletes who participate in mental skills training while injured recover better! During rehab, training your physical skills has to pause, training your mental game does not.
(571) 497-4292 View (571) 497-4292
THIS GROUP ADDRESSES THE PROBLEM OF FOOD ADDICTION AND BINGE EATING DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT THIS GROUP IS ALSO OFFERED AT OUR WOODBRIDGE LOCATION ON TUESDAYS--- PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE FOR INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION AT (703) 356-9136 OR ADMIN@MCLEAN-THERAPY.COM
Photo of Mona Abuhamda, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Mona Abuhamda
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
THIS GROUP ADDRESSES THE PROBLEM OF FOOD ADDICTION AND BINGE EATING DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT THIS GROUP IS ALSO OFFERED AT OUR WOODBRIDGE LOCATION ON TUESDAYS--- PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE FOR INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION AT (703) 356-9136 OR ADMIN@MCLEAN-THERAPY.COM
(703) 356-9136 View (703) 356-9136
This 12-week group is designed for women who are currently navigating or have recently gone through a separation/divorce. Walking this journey can be painful and lonely, and connecting with others on similar paths can help you heal and rebuild. This group will draw on DBT techniques, mindfulness skills, and CBT to help process emotions, manage stress, and learn healthy coping skills. The next group will start in September 2024 and meet virtually. If you are interested in participating in this group, or if you have any questions, please reach out to Arielle Rondon at arielle@mcclerrengroup.com.
Photo of Sarah McClerren, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Hosted by Sarah McClerren
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
This 12-week group is designed for women who are currently navigating or have recently gone through a separation/divorce. Walking this journey can be painful and lonely, and connecting with others on similar paths can help you heal and rebuild. This group will draw on DBT techniques, mindfulness skills, and CBT to help process emotions, manage stress, and learn healthy coping skills. The next group will start in September 2024 and meet virtually. If you are interested in participating in this group, or if you have any questions, please reach out to Arielle Rondon at arielle@mcclerrengroup.com.
(571) 200-7594 View (571) 200-7594
Anger management program - courts - work - domestic THIS GROUP IS ALSO OFFERED AT OUR WOODBRIDGE LOCATION--- PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE FOR INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION (703)356-9136 OR ADMIN@MCLEAN-THERAPY.COM
Photo of Mona Abuhamda, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Mona Abuhamda
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
Anger management program - courts - work - domestic THIS GROUP IS ALSO OFFERED AT OUR WOODBRIDGE LOCATION--- PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE FOR INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION (703)356-9136 OR ADMIN@MCLEAN-THERAPY.COM
(703) 356-9136 View (703) 356-9136
These groups are for preschool/kindergarten boys and girls ages 3-5 who struggle with social skills issues. They have a maximum of six participants. They are co-led by two therapists and focuses on assisting with school preparation, encouraging collaborative play, helping children label and identify feelings, establishing boundaries, developing and maintaining friendships, reading social cues, and improving imaginary play skills.
Photo of Anne Fleury, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Hosted by Anne Fleury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
These groups are for preschool/kindergarten boys and girls ages 3-5 who struggle with social skills issues. They have a maximum of six participants. They are co-led by two therapists and focuses on assisting with school preparation, encouraging collaborative play, helping children label and identify feelings, establishing boundaries, developing and maintaining friendships, reading social cues, and improving imaginary play skills.
(703) 282-5937 View (703) 282-5937
The primary goals of young adults groups (ages 18-25) are to provide a safe environment for young adults to talk and connect with each other around issues related to post-high school/college/career decisions, connecting/maintaining friendships with peers, mood disorders/anxiety and how that impacts their experience as a young adult, and dating/romantic relationships. These groups are tailored to address specific issues raised by group members.
Photo of Nicole W McGarry, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hosted by Nicole W McGarry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
The primary goals of young adults groups (ages 18-25) are to provide a safe environment for young adults to talk and connect with each other around issues related to post-high school/college/career decisions, connecting/maintaining friendships with peers, mood disorders/anxiety and how that impacts their experience as a young adult, and dating/romantic relationships. These groups are tailored to address specific issues raised by group members.
(202) 684-2058 View (202) 684-2058
Parenting can be especially challenging when your teen has difficulties regulating their emotions. This (virtual) group provides parents with tools to help their teens accept life circumstances while developing skills to enact positive changes in their behavior and interactions with others. Parents will learn how to address behavior through effective communication and enhanced understanding, in turn reducing power struggles and developing a more meaningful relationship with their teen.
Photo of Elise Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT
Hosted by Elise Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, C-DBT
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
Parenting can be especially challenging when your teen has difficulties regulating their emotions. This (virtual) group provides parents with tools to help their teens accept life circumstances while developing skills to enact positive changes in their behavior and interactions with others. Parents will learn how to address behavior through effective communication and enhanced understanding, in turn reducing power struggles and developing a more meaningful relationship with their teen.
(571) 322-8660 View (571) 322-8660
This group is intended for women dealing with infertility issues.
Photo of Jennifer Lager, Psychologist, PsyD
Hosted by Jennifer Lager
Psychologist, PsyD
Group meets in McLean, VA 22101
This group is intended for women dealing with infertility issues.
(703) 594-1913 View (703) 594-1913

See more therapy options for McLean

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in McLean?

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.