Group Counseling

What Is Group Counseling?

Group counseling is a form of therapy where a small group of individuals—typically 5 to 12 people—meet regularly with one or more trained therapists to talk through challenges, offer support, and build skills. It provides a safe, confidential space to share experiences and gain insight while connecting with others facing similar concerns.

Who It Can Help

Group counseling can be helpful for individuals dealing with:

  • Anxiety and depression

  • Grief and loss

  • Relationship or family issues

  • Trauma or abuse recovery

  • Substance use or addiction

  • Low self-esteem or identity concerns

  • Stress and life transitions

  • Social anxiety or isolation

It can be a stand-alone treatment or used alongside individual therapy.

Types of Group Counseling

  • Psychoeducational Groups – Focus on teaching coping skills, managing symptoms, or understanding a specific topic (e.g., anxiety, grief, parenting)

  • Process-Oriented Groups – Emphasize emotional expression, interpersonal dynamics, and mutual support

  • Support Groups – Offer peer connection around shared experiences (e.g., trauma, recovery, chronic illness)

  • Skill-Building Groups – Teach practical tools such as mindfulness, DBT, or communication strategies

Benefits of Group Counseling

  • Shared experience – Helps participants realize they’re not alone

  • Supportive environment – Offers encouragement, feedback, and empathy

  • Improved social skills – Builds communication, boundaries, and trust

  • Perspective – Helps individuals see different viewpoints and learn from others’ journeys

  • Practice and growth – A space to safely try new coping strategies or behaviors

  • Affordability – Often more cost-effective than individual therapy