Group Therapy

Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy where a small group of people meet regularly with one or more therapists. It provides a safe space to share experiences, receive feedback, develop social skills, and realize you are not alone.

Prevalence

Over 7 million Americans participate in group therapy annually. Research shows group therapy is as effective as individual therapy for many conditions.

Symptoms of Group Therapy

• Feelings of isolation
• Social anxiety or skills deficits
• Recurring interpersonal problems
• Shared struggles (grief, addiction, anxiety)
• Need for peer support in addition to individual therapy

Types of Group Therapy

• Process groups (interpersonal dynamics)
• Psychoeducational groups (skill-building)
• Support groups (peer sharing)
• Cognitive behavioral groups
• DBT skills groups
• Trauma groups
• Addiction recovery groups

Evidence-Based Treatment Options

• Group facilitation by licensed therapist
• Typically 6–12 members
• Weekly sessions, often 60–90 minutes
• Structured or open-ended format
• Online group therapy options available

When to Seek Help

Group therapy is recommended when you want to reduce isolation, improve social skills, or benefit from shared experiences. It is often used alongside individual therapy.

Recovery Outlook

Group therapy produces meaningful outcomes for a wide range of mental health conditions. Members often report the experience of being understood by peers as uniquely healing.