What Are the Common Types of Group Therapy?

Find the right group therapy approach to gain support, build new skills, and navigate life’s challenges with others who understand.

Group therapy, also known as group psychotherapy, is a powerful tool for healing and personal growth, offering a supportive environment where group members can connect over shared experiences. Unlike individual therapy sessions, group therapy brings together people facing similar challenges, providing a space for mutual support, insight, and learning. Read on to learn more about common types of group therapy, how to choose the right group, and more. 

Common types of group therapy

With various approaches available, understanding the different types of group therapy can help you find the one that best fits your needs. Here are 9 common types of group therapy.

1. Psychoeducational groups

Psychoeducational groups focus on providing information and teaching coping strategies to help individuals manage specific challenges. These groups often address topics such as stress management, substance abuse treatment, or anxiety reduction. Facilitated by a therapist or group leader, these group therapy sessions combine education with discussion to empower members with practical tools.

2. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) groups

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) groups are structured and goal-oriented, focusing on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. Participants learn to challenge unhelpful thinking, develop healthier coping mechanisms, and build resilience. These cognitive behavioral groups are particularly effective for anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), often recommended by organizations like the American Psychological Association.

3. Support groups

Support groups provide a safe space for group members to share their experiences and offer mutual support. These can be peer-led or facilitated by professionals and often focus on specific challenges, such as grief, addiction, or chronic illness. The emphasis is on emotional support, reducing feelings of isolation, and building a sense of community.

4. Interpersonal process groups

Also known as psychotherapy groups, these sessions focus on improving communication skills and enhancing relationships. They explore emotional experiences and interpersonal dynamics within the group setting, helping participants gain insight into how they relate to others. This type of therapy is particularly useful for those working on relationship challenges or social anxiety.

5. Skills development groups

Skills development groups are designed to teach practical skills that can be applied in daily life. These groups often focus on areas such as social skills, anger management, or emotional regulation. They are particularly beneficial for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, anxiety disorders, or other mental health conditions that affect daily functioning.

6. Process-oriented or psychodynamic groups

Rooted in psychodynamic psychotherapy, these groups help group members explore unconscious patterns, past experiences, and deep emotional issues. The focus is on increasing self-awareness and understanding how past experiences influence current behaviors and relationships. This type of group counseling is often used for long-term personal growth.

7. Art and creative therapy groups

Creative therapy groups use mediums like art, music, drama, or writing as therapeutic outlets. These sessions allow participants to express emotions nonverbally, process trauma, and explore their inner experiences through creativity. This approach is particularly helpful for those who struggle to articulate their feelings through words.

8. Relapse prevention groups

Relapse prevention groups focus on supporting individuals recovering from substance use disorders. These counseling groups help participants develop coping strategies, recognize triggers, and build a strong support network. Often incorporated into substance abuse treatment plans, they aim to maintain sobriety and prevent setbacks.

9. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) groups

Dialectical behavior therapy groups are designed to help individuals develop skills for managing emotions, reducing self-destructive behaviors, and improving relationships. These group therapy sessions are particularly effective for individuals with borderline personality disorder, eating disorders, and other severe emotional dysregulation challenges.

Choosing the right type of group therapy

Finding the right group therapy session experience depends on your personal needs, goals, and comfort level. Consider the following factors:

• Personal goals: Are you looking for emotional support, practical skills, or deeper self-awareness?
• Emotional needs: Do you prefer a structured educational environment or a more open-ended, exploratory setting?
• Professional guidance: A therapist or mental health professional can help you determine which type of group therapy aligns best with your circumstances.

For many, combining group therapy with individual therapy sessions provides a comprehensive treatment system that addresses both personal and interpersonal needs.

Benefits of group therapy

Participating in group therapy offers numerous advantages, starting with a reduction in isolation. Realizing that others share similar struggles can be deeply comforting, helping individuals feel less alone. Additionally, hearing others’ experiences provides valuable new insights and coping strategies that may not have been considered before. The group setting also fosters accountability and motivation, encouraging participants to stay consistent and make progress in their healing journey. Finally, engaging with others in a therapeutic environment can improve interpersonal skills, enhancing both communication and social connections.

Potential challenges in group therapy

While group therapy can be incredibly beneficial, it’s important to be mindful of potential challenges. Sharing personal experiences with a group can feel intimidating, particularly at the start, as it requires vulnerability. Additionally, group dynamics can sometimes lead to conflicts or tension, especially when personalities differ. Finding the right fit is another consideration, as it may take time to discover a group that feels comfortable and supportive, where individuals can truly connect and engage.

At Charlie Health, we address these challenges by carefully matching people with others who share similar life experiences. This approach fosters a deeper sense of understanding and connection within the group, helping participants feel more comfortable and supported. By creating a space where people can relate to each other’s journeys, we aim to encourage meaningful engagement in our group sessions.

How Charlie Health can help

If you or a loved one could use some extra mental health support, Charlie Health is here to help. Charlie Health’s virtual Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) provides mental health treatment for people dealing with serious mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. Our expert clinicians incorporate evidence-based therapies into individual counseling, family therapy, and group sessions. With this kind of holistic online therapy, managing your mental health is possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call to start healing today.