Patient and family education
Group therapy is a small group of people who meet regularly with a trained leader to work on something together. Groups usually have 5 to 12 members. Some meet in person, some meet online, and some do both.
Why people choose a group
You hear from people working through the same thing, which is something one-on-one therapy can’t offer. Research finds that for many concerns, group therapy works as well as individual therapy. It often costs less, and many support groups are free.
What a first session usually looks like
- The leader explains how the group works and its ground rules, including confidentiality.
- Members talk; you can mostly listen until you feel ready. No one is forced to share.
- Sessions usually run 60 to 90 minutes.
What group therapy is not
- It’s not a class where you are put on the spot or graded.
- It’s not a replacement for crisis care. If you are in crisis, call or text 988 first.
- Joining one session is not a commitment. It’s normal to try a group once and decide.
Questions to ask before you join
- Who leads the group, and what is their training?
- What does it cost? Is there a free or sliding scale option?
- Is the group open to new members now? How do I join?
- What happens if I miss a week?
One more thing. It can take two or three sessions to feel comfortable. That’s normal, not a sign the group is wrong for you. And it’s okay to try more than one group and pick the best fit.
Browse 2,000+ therapy and support groups in all 50 states. Free to browse. No account needed.
Sources: American Journal of Psychotherapy, Recent developments in group psychotherapy research (2020); Efficacy of group psychotherapy for anxiety disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis (PubMed). The Group Guide is a directory, not a clinic. This page is general education, not medical or mental health advice. In crisis? Call or text 988.