Group Therapy

Key Takeaways

• Group therapy is an evidence-based form of therapy designed to simultaneously assist a small number of individuals with similar mental health challenges. Sessions are guided by a mental health professional and aim to increase mental well-being through self-expression, collaborative learning, and peer connection.
• Group-based therapy supports both psychiatric symptom reduction and personal growth, and is of equal efficacy to individual therapy for various mental health conditions. The treatment supports the development of resilience and emotional regulation by offering a safe, cathartic space where members feel accepted and understood.
• The modality is tailored to address a wide range of issues, with numerous types of group therapy designed to address specific mental health conditions (such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders, etc) or life challenges (including anger management, grief, divorce, and more).

Understanding Group Therapy

Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy where a small group of people facing similar mental health challenges gather in a communal setting for counseling and support. Sessions are typically led by one or more qualified psychologists. In contrast, support groups are typically peer-led and offer benefits through shared experiences rather than formal therapy techniques. ^[1]

That said, both group therapy and support groups are centered around the belief that individuals can improve their mental well-being through sharing related challenges and successes with others who can resonate. Additionally, both serve to enhance social skills and connections within a structured environment. ^[1]

While traditional treatments for mental health (such as individual therapy and medication) have been widely employed since the origin of modern psychiatry, group therapy has recently garnered increased recognition for its unique ability to harness social interaction and peer support to aid in the journey towards mental and emotional well-being. ^[1]

The modality is now one of the most commonly used psychiatric treatments in hospitals and psychiatric settings and has been scientifically proven to be as effective as one-on-one psychotherapy for a wide range of mental health conditions. The most well-documented of these include: ^{[1] [2]}

• PTSD
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Eating disorders
• Schizophrenia
• Grief

How it Works

Group therapy is based on various theoretical models that explain the underlying principles behind individual improvements in mental health resulting from group participation. The most influential framework was conceptualized by Irvin Yalom (a renowned American psychiatrist and psychotherapist) in the 1970s and is known as the Therapeutic Factor Model. ^[1]

The Therapeutic Factor Model

The Therapeutic Factor Model offers a clear understanding of eleven processes that contribute to the effectiveness of group therapy. That said, it is important to keep in mind that recent research suggests that different therapeutic factors are more beneficial for some mental health disorders than others, although the overarching experience of group therapy holds numerous advantages. The Therapeutic Factors of group therapy include: ^{[1] [3]}

Universality

Group therapy centers around the principle of "universality," which describes how individuals can find solace and a profound sense of belonging by becoming aware that others share similar mental health challenges. Recognizing this can reduce loneliness and stigma-related shame, and inspire personal development along with emotional healing. ^[1]

Altruism

Altruism can be defined as care for the well-being of others (without the expectation of receiving anything in return). In the context of group therapy, altruism takes the form of members helping one another, which serves to create a sense of purpose and enhance self-worth. A group setting incentivizes this virtue through a sense of accountability and shared desire for personal growth. ^[1]

Instilling Hope

Witnessing the recovery journeys of others can inspire hope and strengthen resilience, two vital qualities for overcoming mental health challenges. Through listening to the stories of strength and progress shared by others undergoing similar difficulties, group therapy can prompt members to imagine a life beyond their wildest dreams. ^[1]

Group Cohesiveness

Group cohesion refers to the sense of connection and unity among members and plays a key role in mental health recovery as well as emotional growth. A strong group bond nurtures a safe space for honest and vulnerable self-expression, which has been linked to more positive therapeutic outcomes. ^[1]

Development of Social Skills

Group therapy also supports the development of communication and problem-solving skills, which are important for navigating everyday life. Through social interactions before, during, and after sessions, participants can learn to practice emotional vulnerability, self-expression, active listening, and collaborative problem-solving. ^[1]

Catharsis

Catharsis (the process of releasing deep-rooted emotions in a manner that brings relief, clarity, or growth) is often felt deeply in group therapy. Authentically sharing challenges (along with related thoughts and emotions) can support individuals in processing and making sense of difficult experiences, which quiets the mind and offers insight into new solutions. ^[1]

Self-Disclosure

Self-disclosure is the art of sharing personal emotions, thoughts, information, or experiences with others. In group therapy, this can help to build trust and connection after members respond without judgment, instead expressing understanding, resonance, and love. This process can deepen connections with others and improve one’s relationship with oneself.

Acceptance

Acceptance plays a key role in group therapy by creating a safe space where members feel encouraged to express their challenges with mental health openly. When individuals feel accepted by the group, they are more likely to share honestly and find freedom from the sense of shame that goes hand in hand with societal stigma.

Guidance

Guidance in group therapy involves receiving feedback and suggestions from both therapists and group members. In a 2021 study investigating the therapeutic factors in group therapy in terms of member satisfaction, the most beneficial aspect of group sessions was reported to be guidance, with 47% of participants identifying the factor as an integral part of their experience. ^[3]

Self-Understanding

Self-understanding describes an increased awareness of one’s thoughts, emotions, and behavior. This quality is commonly developed or improved through self-reflection inspired by group therapy sessions, along with feedback. Deepening self-understanding forms the foundation of personal growth, as acceptance is the precursor to change.

Vicarious Learning

While the term "vicarious" is typically used to describe experiencing something indirectly through hearing about the enjoyable experiences of others, vicarious learning is the process of absorbing knowledge and skills through listening to members share how they have overcome challenges related to mental health in group therapy sessions.

Therapeutic Alliance

Therapeutic alliance refers to the collaborative engagement between group members and one or more therapists in group therapy. This therapeutic factor is centered around mutual respect, compassion, understanding, guidance, and member co-operation with feedback, suggested tasks, and objectives.

The Role of Positive Psychology in Group Therapy

In addition to the Therapeutic Factor Model, a recent review has highlighted that group therapy can assist individuals in developing important inner strengths (such as courage, self-discipline, justice, wisdom, humanity, and emotional regulation) and proposes that these qualities can be used to assess how well the therapy is working. ^[3]

The authors of the study believe that these elements (often termed the “vital signs” of psychotherapy) are key qualities and developmental outcomes that indicate holistic progress in treatment. According to the review, previous studies on group therapy often center on symptom-reduction, which, although important, can overlook other fundamental aspects of the human experience. ^[3]

The study states that by cultivating these vital signs, an individual can develop: ^[3]

• Resilience
• Purpose
• Healthy relationships
• Gratitude
• Hope
• Tolerance
• Compassion
• Forgiveness

These mental traits and qualities are core goals in positive psychology (the evidence-based exploration of human strengths and well-being, with a focus on what makes life meaningful and fulfilling). Positive psychology centers around cultivating virtues and distinguishes between hedonic (pleasure-based) and eudaimonic (meaning-based) well-being. ^[3]

As a result, positive psychology can have a profound impact on overall life satisfaction and holistic well-being. This emerging approach to improving mental health was found to be particularly well-supported by group therapy, where individuals can benefit from shared goals, accountability, and encouragement. ^[3]

What Can it Help With?

Numerous studies have shown the effectiveness of group therapy in treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders. Among its many benefits, group therapy has been found to significantly reduce mental health symptoms as both a standalone treatment and a complement to individual therapy, particularly for the following disorders: ^{[1] [2] [4] [5]}

• Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Anxiety disorders (including panic disorder)
• Depressive disorders
• Personality disorders
• Eating disorders
• Schizophrenia
• Alcohol use disorder

In addition to its role in treating clinically diagnosable mental health disorders, group therapy is widely recognized for its ability to support emotional regulation, behavior modification, and personal growth. Beyond psychiatric conditions, group therapy has also been found to be useful in assisting individuals to overcome the following: ^{[2] [6]}

• Grief
• Chronic stress
• Chronic pain
• Weight management
• Domestic violence
• Anger management
• Divorce

Types of Group Therapy

There are a variety of different forms of group therapy available, with each developed to meet specific emotional or psychological challenges. By becoming aware of the various options and what each modality aims to address, it is easier to choose the type that aligns best with your personal needs.

Psychoeducational Group Therapy

Psychoeducational groups center around providing information that can be used to manage mental health or personal challenges. Led by a qualified therapist, these sessions combine discussion with learning to help participants develop practical coping skills. Within this form of group therapy, the treatment is typically modified to address specific disorders or challenges (e.g., substance abuse, stress management, etc).

Psychotherapy Groups

Also known as interpersonal process groups, these sessions aim to improve communication skills and strengthen relationships. This form of group therapy encourages participants to explore their emotions and how they interact with others within the group. This approach is particularly beneficial for individuals with relationship difficulties or social anxiety.

Psychodynamic Groups

Psychodynamic (or process-oriented) groups guide members to work through past experiences and address underlying emotional instability. The goal of these groups is to enhance self-awareness, uncover unconscious patterns, and foster recognition of how the past can impact present-day behaviors and relationships.

Art and Creative Therapy Groups

Creative therapy groups explore emotional expression through a variety of media (such as art, writing, music, drama, and more). These sessions offer a means to experience emotional catharsis without verbal explanations. This method is especially beneficial for trauma survivors and individuals who find it difficult to convey complex emotions through spoken language.

Relapse Prevention Groups

Relapse prevention groups are designed to assist those in recovery from substance use disorders in maintaining their sobriety. These groups generally center around developing healthy coping skills, identifying triggers that have the potential to lead to relapse, and creating a reliable support system.

Behavioral Therapies That Use Group Sessions

Group behavioral therapies offer a safe environment where members can learn, practice, and reinforce new skills while benefiting from shared experiences and peer support. While some of these behavior-based groups are based on traditional psychotherapy modalities that address cognitive dysfunction, others are designed to teach practical tools for daily functioning.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Groups

CBT group therapy is widely renowned for its efficacy, which has been found equal to that of individual therapy, offering significant symptom reduction for multiple psychiatric conditions, particularly anxiety and depression. In sessions, participants are led to recognize and challenge dysfunctional thoughts, which serves to strengthen resilience and emotional regulation. ^[1]

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Groups

Dialectical behavior therapy groups aim to teach individuals practical skills that can be used to manage emotions, decrease self-sabotaging behaviors, and subsequently enhance relationships. DBT sessions are particularly beneficial for those with psychiatric conditions that result in significant difficulties with emotional regulation.

Group Behavioral Activation Therapy

Behavioral activation is a core component of cognitive-behavioral therapy and can be delivered in group formats to treat mental health disorders, most commonly depression. Sessions are designed to help individuals reduce avoidance-based behaviors and identify value-based goals that form the foundation for the gradual reintroduction of meaningful and uplifting activities.

Group Exposure Therapy

Exposure-based group therapy is effective for a wide range of mental health conditions, primarily anxiety disorders (such as phobias and social anxiety), along with PTSD. These groups provide structured opportunities to confront fear-inducing thoughts or situations within a supportive environment.

Combined Behavioral and Physical Activity Groups

Recent studies have investigated innovative group therapies that combine traditional behavioral strategies with physical activities (for example, surf therapy designed to address depression). The results of this emerging modality show that this form of group therapy can lead to significant reductions in depressive symptoms and improvements in emotion regulation. ^[7]

Skills Development Groups

Skills development groups teach practical skills that can enhance daily functionality and subsequent overall quality of life. These groups typically address challenges such as social skills or emotional regulation (e.g., anger management). These groups are most effective for individuals with mental health or neurodevelopmental challenges that impact day-to-day living.

Benefits of Group Therapies

Group therapy offers a safe space for members to share vulnerably about their struggles among others who face similar challenges. Additionally, participants receive guidance and feedback from both their peers and a trained psychologist. This practice has been found to provide numerous benefits for both mental health disorders and other emotional difficulties.

Symptom Reduction and Psychological Wellness

Group therapy has been found to reduce psychiatric symptoms and enhance overall mental well-being. These findings emphasize the therapeutic benefits of group therapy, particularly in enhancing resilience, encouraging emotional expression, and offering a sense of support. Group therapy can also catalyze catharsis and inspire a sense of personal agency. ^[1]

Learning Coping Techniques Through Role Modeling

Group members often unintentionally act as role models for one another, due to the fact that observing a participant effectively manage a challenge can inspire hope in one’s capacity to evolve. As members progress in their healing journey, they are better equipped to offer support and guidance to others, which can reinforce personal growth and lead to a sense of purpose.

A Safe Space to Practice Social Skills

Group therapy is a safe space where participants can practice using reframing techniques during social interactions, thereby strengthening the assimilation of these skills. Working within a group allows the facilitating therapist to directly observe how individuals interact and respond in real time, allowing for more accurate and insightful individual feedback. ^[1]

Reduces Stigma-Related Shame and Isolation

Meeting others who are living with similar psychiatric struggles and listening to them share reduces the sense of shame and loneliness often linked to mental health challenges. Being accepted without judgment after sharing openly about personal difficulties can nurture a sense of belonging and lead to meaningful connections that enhance one’s sense of worth. ^[1]

More Affordable Than Individual Therapy

Group therapy offers a practical solution in low and middle-income countries by allowing multiple individuals to receive psychiatric treatment simultaneously, offering an effective method to ease the growing burden on public mental health services. Similarly, group therapy led by a qualified psychologist is a more affordable option than one-on-one therapy sessions. ^[1]

Personal Growth and a Sense of Purpose

According to recent research, group therapy supports emotional regulation, courage, trust, consideration, open-mindedness, and accountability. Additionally, sessions have been found to instill gratitude, hope, humility, compassion, and forgiveness, which together can contribute to more fulfilling relationships and evoke a sense of purpose. ^[2]

Risks and Limitations

While group therapy offers many benefits and can be life-changing for some, the modality is not without risks and challenges. Factors such as differences in personalities, group dynamics, and individual participation can create tension and hinder the therapeutic process. ^[1]

Additionally, considerations including confidentiality breaches, facilitator incompetence, and the nature of certain mental health conditions may limit the effectiveness of the modality for some participants and groups. ^[1]

The following factors may influence the efficacy of group therapy: ^[1]

• Lack of group cohesiveness: People in group therapy come from all walks of life and have different personalities, opinions, levels of social functioning, as well as unique styles of communication, which can potentially lead to tension or conflict.
• May not suit severe conditions: Group therapy is typically not effective for those with severe mental health conditions (including social anxiety, psychosis, individuals in crisis, or anyone who finds it difficult to participate and may benefit more from individual care).
• Unbalanced participation: Some members may dominate discussions while others may feel marginalized or inhibited. This is not the case for all therapeutic groups, but there is a risk that unbalanced participation could prevent meaningful engagement.
• Disruptive behavior: One difficult participant within a group therapy environment can lead to significant frustration, disengagement, or anxiety among other members and undermine the overall group atmosphere.
• Uninterested group members: Group therapy works best when each participant is motivated to learn and willing to engage. Ambivalence to change or a lack of interest in the process can significantly hinder the progress of the entire group.
• Incompetent facilitation: A talented group therapist plays a key role in facilitating a balanced, inclusive, and respectful group. Additionally, group facilitators need to be skilled in conflict resolution to maintain a safe, therapeutic space.
• May require preparation: In some cases, individuals may require one-on-one therapy before joining group sessions in order to build their social confidence and skills, as well as to learn effective coping techniques that support fluid group interactions.
• Fear of vulnerability and judgment: It is common for people to initially resist group therapy due to discomfort with sharing personal information in a group setting or fear of being judged by others.
• Confidentiality and privacy: Maintaining confidentiality within a group therapy setting is more complex than in one-on-one sessions. In some cases, personal information may be leaked intentionally or unintentionally, which can jeopardize recovery.
• Logistical obstacles: Challenges such as irregular attendance, groups that are too large or too small, and difficulties with collaborative scheduling can interfere with group cohesion and reduce the overall effectiveness of group therapy.
• Exposure to the suffering of others: Being exposed to difficult or disturbing experiences faced by others can be both distressing and discouraging, especially for individuals who are already emotionally fragile.
• Dropout and deterioration: Some group participants cease attending therapy sessions prematurely due to uncomfortable emotional responses, and some may even see a decline in overall functioning or mood during treatment.
• Unintended reinforcement of destructive behavior: In certain cases, group settings may unintentionally reinforce unhealthy behaviors or mentalities, particularly when facilitation is weak or when manipulative individuals influence the group dynamic.

What to Expect in Group Therapy Sessions

Group therapy typically takes place in a room where chairs are set up in a large circle, allowing participants to see one another and engage more actively. At the beginning of the first session, if it is an ongoing closed group (where members meet regularly for a set period of time), the therapist will welcome everyone and take a moment to speak individually with each member.

In open or rolling groups (where new participants are able to join and leave at different times), the psychologist will greet any newcomers and explain the therapeutic procedure. After this, existing members might provide brief updates about what led them to therapy and reflect on challenges they are working through.

Next, the therapist will explain what to expect during the group session and outline the overarching goals. Most sessions center around a specific subject or goal, which could take the form of a new topic or serve as a continuation from the previous session. For example, topics may include managing depression or anger, or becoming more at ease in social situations.

This introductory phase could also include reviewing prior assignments or navigating questions. After this, the facilitator will lead a discussion on the topic, inviting members to share their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. During this portion of the session, members practice listening with empathy, giving affirming feedback, and offering encouragement to one another.

The discussion is consistently led and monitored by the group psychologist, who may also introduce exercises to complete between sessions (such as journaling or reflection tasks) to support the group’s goals. At the end of each session, the therapist recaps the main points and offers feedback to the group.

In addition to assignments and sharing, typical activities in group therapy may include:

• Icebreaker questions: Interesting or funny questions that encourage members to bond and become more familiar with one another
• Guided meditation: A short mindfulness practice (such as a body scan meditation) is often used to center the group
• Emotional check-in: Each participant is invited to describe their current emotional state in one word
• Gratitude circle: One by one, group members share about an aspect of their day or life that they are grateful for
• Journaling prompt: Participants are given a specific topic to write about before sharing insights or reflections with the group
• Role-playing: Practicing real-life situations in pairs (for example, boundary-setting or assertive communication)
• Cognitive distortions worksheet: This activity is designed to help members identify irrational thought patterns and reframe them from a logical perspective
• Letter writing: Writing unsent letters to oneself, a part of the self, or to a significant person can release pent-up emotions and help to clarify thoughts
• Values clarification exercise: This exercise helps group members to explore their core values and how these influence choices and outcomes
• Circle of support drawing: This activity maps the people and resources in the participant’s life to identify imbalances
• Visualization: Visualization is often used to encourage members to envision the best version of themselves or how that version may handle specific situations
• Art or creative expression: Group therapy may make use of collage, drawing, or simple creative projects as a means of reflecting upon a theme or topic

Preparing for Your First Session

If you have never experienced group therapy before, preparing for the first session can help to reduce anxiety and set the stage for a positive experience. Becoming familiar with how a typical group therapy session works (see above) can also help you to feel mentally prepared and make the experience feel less intimidating.

It is a good idea to reflect on what you hope to learn or gain from therapy and to consider the type of topics you may or may not be willing to explore. Making a note of thoughts and queries ahead of time guarantees that you will remember them if you happen to feel overwhelmed once you have arrived at the venue.

Although you may feel nervous, it is beneficial to arrive five to ten minutes before the session begins. This allows time to adjust to a new environment, meet other group members, and engage in casual conversation. While optional, wearing comfortable clothes can promote a sense of relaxation and shift the focus from making a good impression to the session’s content.

Remember to bring anything that may have been recommended by the facilitator ahead of time (such as a pen or notebook). Group therapy often feels unfamiliar or even anxiety-provoking at first, but it is only possible to achieve growth by leaving the comfort zone. For this reason, it is important to approach the session with curiosity and an open mind.

Endeavour to keep your motivation for attending sessions at the forefront of your mind, and focus on your desired outcome rather than succumbing to the fear of judgment. Embracing the mindset that group therapy is an opportunity to heal, instead of a challenge or chore, can have a significant impact on the therapeutic experience.

Finding Group Therapy

Group therapy can be a powerful source of healing, connection, and personal growth. Whether aiming to address a specific mental health condition or simply seeking support, joining a therapy group can alleviate loneliness and help to cope with the stigma that goes hand in hand with psychiatric difficulties.

If you are considering group therapy for yourself or a loved one, here are some tips to consider before joining a session:

• Consult with a psychologist or psychiatrist: Healthcare professionals can provide an accurate diagnosis, which is essential for making an informed decision. Furthermore, the provider can evaluate individual requirements and recommend the most suitable type of group therapy based on your unique condition, goals, and personal preferences.
• Confirm the efficacy of group therapy for your specific goal: It is important to enquire with your mental health provider as to whether group therapy will be effective on its own or if you would benefit more from individual therapy, medication, alternative practices, or a combination.
• Check reviews or obtain recommendations from a trusted source: In light of the crucial role a therapist plays in facilitating effective group therapy, it is imperative to investigate the experiences of previous group members. To do so, ask for first-person recommendations and check if the psychologist is on Google reviews.
• Consider the format: Decide whether you would feel more comfortable with an open or closed group. Open groups allow participants to join at any time, while closed groups begin and end with the same members, offering more consistency and cohesion. Some people may also prefer online group therapy for added convenience or comfort.
• Check insurance coverage: Contact your health insurance provider to confirm whether group therapy is covered by your specific plan, and enquire as to how many sessions are included in the benefits each year. This can help with financial planning and avoiding unexpected costs.
• Explore availability: Research your available options by contacting local hospitals, clinics, private practices, and community mental health centers. You can also ask your therapist or psychiatrist, or search online directories, to find group therapy sessions near you.

Final Thoughts

Group therapy is a form of psychotherapy where individuals facing similar mental health challenges come together under the guidance of a trained therapist to share experiences, gain support, and develop coping strategies. As mental health disorders remain a significant global health concern, group therapy offers a promising approach that supports psychiatric well-being. ^[1]

Unlike individual therapy, group therapy leverages social interaction, vicarious learning, and positive psychology to support personal growth. The approach has proven to be equally effective as one-on-one therapy for a wide range of conditions (including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and more).

Research shows that group therapy members not only experience symptom relief but also gain increased self-awareness, emotional resilience, and social skills. Additionally, the communal setting supports a sense of belonging, reduces stigma-related shame, and provides a safe space for catharsis, self-expression, and connection.

While the modality comes with unique risks and limitations (including that it is not suitable for everyone), when facilitated well, group therapy can be a life-changing experience, serving to strengthen resilience and empower individuals to move forward with a greater sense of clarity, connection, and purpose.

FAQs

Is group therapy open to anyone?

While some therapeutic groups are referred to as “open,” this simply means that new participants are permitted to join at any time. However, even in open groups, the modality is typically tailored to suit specific psychiatric conditions or emotional challenges, meaning that only individuals who align with the group's focus may join.

How much time will I need to dedicate to group therapy?

Group therapy sessions typically last 60 minutes (although some may be longer), and generally take place once or twice a week. The overall length of participation can range from several weeks to over a year, depending on the group’s purpose and the participant’s personal goals. Closed groups have a set timeframe, while open groups are ongoing with no predetermined end.

Does insurance cover group therapy?

Yes, many health insurance plans include coverage for group therapy, although this differs widely depending on factors such as insurance company and plan policies. For this reason, it is important to review the details of a specific plan to understand what is included and any limitations that may apply.

Author

Star Gorven

Star Gorven is a wellness and mental health writer with a talent for crafting evocative and evidence-based content across a wide range of topics. Her work blends analytical research with imagination and personality, offering thoughtful insights drawn from her exploration of subjects such as psychology, philosophy, spirituality, and holistic wellbeing.

Activity History - Last updated: March 19, 2026, Published date: March 19, 2026

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Reviewer

Kaye SmithPhD

Dr. Smith is a behavioral health coach, clinician, writer, and educator with over 15 years of experience in psychotherapy, coaching, teaching, and writing.

Activity History - Medically reviewed on April 2, 2026 and last checked on March 19, 2026