When people think of therapy, they often picture sitting across from a therapist one-on-one. While individual therapy can be powerful, research has consistently shown that for many issues, group therapy is on par with individual treatment in terms of outcomes. Group therapy can offer an alternative way to meet therapeutic goals through connection, practicing skills in real time, and offer a more cost effective way to get support.
At its core, group therapy helps people realize they are not alone and they can have more peer support in finding ways to use their therapy tools. Struggling with mental health can feel isolating, and it’s common to believe no one else could possibly understand. Sitting in a room with others who share similar challenges breaks down that sense of isolation – which is often one of the most daunting barriers to treatment outcomes. When group members share stories, reactions, or even just nod in understanding, a person begins to see their struggles as part of the human experience—not as something that makes them broken or different. In other words, it helps develop hope that a person’s life can change.
It helps people normalize their emotions, gain perspective, and feel a sense of belonging that often can’t be replicated elsewhere.
Personal growth occurs in community – not in isolation
A unique strength of group therapy is the variety of perspectives available. In individual therapy you get the expertise of your therapist, which is incredibly valuable. Although in group therapy, you get that same expertise plus the lived experience of multiple people who are at different stages in their therapeutic progress. Other group members often offer insights, coping strategies, expectations, or encouragement that resonate in ways a therapist’s words alone might not.
For example, a group member can share their reluctance to ask for help from their romantic partner. An individual therapist can help a client break down why that is the case, but in group therapy another group member can share their personal lived experience of how they were able to speak up more in their relationship. They can share what worked, what didn’t, what to avoid, and bring a more personal background to problem solving in a therapeutic setting – as opposed to an individual therapist who can not self disclose to that degree.
Practice skills before using them outside of the therapy office
Groups also provide a safe, structured environment to practice new skills. For people working on communication, setting boundaries, or managing conflict, a group offers real-time opportunities to try these behaviors and receive supportive feedback.
If someone tends to withdraw when anxious, a group setting allows them to practice speaking up, knowing others will understand the difficulty and encourage their efforts. Over time, this kind of practice builds confidence that carries into everyday life.
My favorite example is practicing assertiveness skills in a group setting. Not only do group members get a space to structure language around their needs, they also get a group of people who are there to not only help them find the words but also cheerlead them into finding the confidence to be more assertive in day to day life.
Group therapy is one of the most cost effective forms of therapeutic treatment
Simply put – group therapy is usually the most cost effective option for seeking mental health treatment. Since the therapist’s time is shared among participants, the cost per person is usually lower. This means that more people can access quality care while still receiving guided support from a licensed professional.
Goals of different types of group therapy
While different types of group therapy are available to help almost any type of therapeutic goal, the most common types of outpatient group therapy are effective for these types of goals:
- People with anxiety or depression: Groups can reduce the sense of isolation and hopelessness that often accompany these conditions. Seeing others work through similar struggles provides hope and a sense of belonging.
- Those Navigating Relationship Challenges: Since groups focus heavily on interpersonal interactions, they are ideal for people wanting to improve how they connect, communicate, and resolve conflict.
- Individuals Working on Self-Esteem or identity formation: Hearing positive feedback from peers in a safe space can help challenge negative self-beliefs and reinforce a healthier sense of self.
- People Adjusting to Major Life Changes: Divorce, grief, job transitions, or other major life events can feel overwhelming. Groups provide both emotional support and practical strategies for coping within a community.
- Clients Seeking Accountability: Group members often encourage and motivate each other, helping participants stay committed to their goals. Instead of motivating through negative self talk, people can learn to grow with positive reinforcement and relationship.
What to Expect in a Group
For those new to group therapy, it’s normal to feel nervous about opening up in front of others. A skilled therapist will create a safe, respectful, and confidential environment where participants can share at their own pace. Groups often begin with introductions and a check-in, followed by open discussion or structured exercises, depending on the group’s focus. Over time, members typically find that the initial discomfort fades and is replaced with connection, trust, and even a sense of community.
Groups are sometimes “closed” meaning that the same group of people attend all 5-8 scheduled group therapy sessions. Whereas, other groups are “open” meaning that anyone can come and go to each scheduled session.
Why not try group therapy out?
Group therapy is an effective, evidence-based approach that leverages the power of community, shared experience, and mutual support. It helps people feel less alone, learn from one another, and practice new ways of being in a supportive environment.
If you’ve ever considered group therapy but felt unsure, it may be worth giving it a try! You might be surprised at how healing it can be to sit in a room full of people who truly “get it.” Sometimes, the most powerful part of therapy is realizing that healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens in connection. If you are interested in learning more about the groups we are running at Works, please reach out!