Therapy type Group Therapy

Group Therapy

Group therapy is a form of talk therapy where a small group of people meet regularly with one or more therapists to work on shared challenges. It’s commonly used for concerns like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, and life transitions.

What is group therapy?

Group therapy brings together people who may be dealing with similar experiences, creating a space for connection, learning, and support. Sessions are guided by a trained therapist who helps facilitate discussion, ensure safety, and introduce helpful tools.

Unlike individual therapy, the group itself becomes part of the healing process. Members can share perspectives, offer support, and learn from each other in real time.

The approach is based on the idea that many struggles are easier to navigate when you feel less alone and can practice new ways of relating with others.

What issues group therapy helps with

Group therapy can support a range of concerns, including:

Signs you might need group therapy

Group therapy may be a good fit if you notice:

  • Feeling isolated or disconnected from others
  • Difficulty opening up in one-on-one settings
  • Repeating patterns in relationships
  • Wanting feedback from multiple perspectives
  • Curiosity about how others cope with similar challenges

When to consider getting help

You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from group therapy. It can be helpful if your concerns are ongoing, affecting your relationships, or if you’re looking for a sense of community while working on personal growth.

What happens in a typical group therapy session

While each group is different, sessions often follow a general structure:

  1. Check-in: Members briefly share how they’ve been feeling or what’s been on their mind.
  2. Focus topic or discussion: The therapist may introduce a theme (e.g., boundaries, coping skills), or the group may explore current challenges.
  3. Sharing and feedback: Members share experiences and offer supportive, respectful feedback.
  4. Skill-building or reflection: The therapist may guide exercises, role-plays, or reflections to help apply new insights.
  5. Wrap-up and next steps: The session ends with key takeaways or intentions for the week.

How long group therapy usually takes

  • Sessions are typically held weekly and last 60–90 minutes
  • Some groups run for a set number of weeks, while others are ongoing
  • Many people attend for a few months, though some continue longer for continued support

What to look for in a group therapy therapist

When choosing a group therapy provider, consider:

  • Experience leading groups for your specific concern
  • Clear structure and guidelines for participation and confidentiality
  • Ability to balance group dynamics so all voices are heard
  • A style that feels supportive, respectful, and well-facilitated
  • Group size and composition (e.g., 6–10 members, shared goals)

Fit matters, it's okay to ask questions beforehand or try a different group if it doesn’t feel right.

Group Therapy insights

One of the benefits of Group Therapy is that it may be helpful for people who feel alone in their struggles, and therefore may gain confidence and encouragement from interacting with peers who are "in the same boat."

Researchers have found that "group psychotherapy has been shown to be equivalent to individual therapy for many disorders" and that group sessions can be especially effective when it comes to helping patients develop personal accountability, cultivate humility, and find hope.

The Ultimate Guide To Starting Group Therapy

FAQ about group therapy

Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy?
For many concerns, it can be just as effective. It offers added benefits like peer support and real-time feedback.

Will I have to share personal details right away?
No. You can go at your own pace. Many people take time to feel comfortable before opening up.

How many people are in a group?
Most groups have 6–10 members, allowing for meaningful interaction without feeling overwhelming.

Can group therapy help with social anxiety?
Yes. It provides a safe space to practice communication and build confidence with others.

Is group therapy confidential?
Therapists set clear confidentiality guidelines, though members are also expected to respect each other’s privacy.

Can I do group therapy online?
Yes. Many groups are offered virtually, which can make it easier to attend consistently.

What if I don’t feel comfortable in the group?
That’s okay. It’s normal to need time to adjust, but if it doesn’t feel like the right fit, you can explore other groups or therapy options.

Find vetted therapists who practice Group Therapy