Online Group Therapy

person having a group therapy session
man having an online meeting

What Is Online Group Therapy?

Online group therapy is when a small group of people meet on the internet to talk with a licensed mental health professional. These virtual group meetings help people with feelings, behaviors, and thoughts. You meet others who feel the same and get support in a safe space. Each group has a trained therapist or psychiatric provider to guide the conversation.

 

Online group therapy gives you skills, support, and space to heal. You can share your story and listen to others in therapy groups. It’s a great way to build confidence and coping tools.

Benefits of Group Therapy Online

Easy to Join

You only need the internet and a device. Many people use a patient portal to join group sessions. It’s perfect for those who live far away or can’t travel.

Affordable

Group therapy is often cheaper than one-on-one counseling. Many groups accept health insurance, Medicare, or offer help with your deductible.

Supportive Community

You’ll join a group that understands what you’re going through. This peer support helps with motivation and reduces social stigma around mental health.

people online chatting

What Happens in a Group Session?

Each skills group includes 5–10 people. A mental health professional leads the talk. Sessions may include:

  • Sharing your feelings like anger, fear, or panic

  • Learning how to handle stress or insomnia

  • Talking about mood changes or disorders like bipolar disorder

  • Learning tools from dialectical behavior therapy

  • Growing insight into your behavior and emotion

  • Practicing healthy ways to cope

Symptoms that Group Therapy Can Help With

Many people can benefit, including those with:

Anxiety and Stress

If you feel worried all the time, you may have anxiety or an anxiety disorder. Group therapy helps you understand your feelings and learn management tools.

 

Depression

Major depressive disorder can feel heavy and lonely. Sharing in a group can help lift that weight and bring motivation and hope.

 

Addiction and Substance Abuse

People in recovery from substance abuse or addiction often find help in support groups. Groups also help manage anger and rebuild confidence.

 

Mood and Personality Disorders

Group sessions help those with bipolar disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, or avoidant personality disorder learn how to manage their behavior and build better relationships.

 

Trauma and Phobias

Group therapy uses exposure therapy and conversation to talk about past pain, phobia, or tough feelings. It helps you feel less alone and more in control.

 

LGBTQ Support

People in the LGBTQ community often face unique mental health challenges. Group therapy offers a safe space and real peer support to grow and heal.

 

Parenting and Family Struggles

Parents or couples may benefit from couples therapy or parenting-focused groups. Group therapy can teach mindful care and healthy communication.

 

ADHD and Attention Issues

People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can learn focus, routine, and emotional regulation in group therapy.

What Makes Group Therapy Online Different?

Accessibility

Online therapy gives you accessibility from your home. This means more people can get help, no matter where they live.

 

Licensed Therapists

All providers are trained and licensed in psychology, psychiatry, or counseling. They give the best care based on science and research.

 

Confidential and Safe

Your privacy is protected. Every session follows rules for confidentiality, informed consent, and evaluation. You’re in a safe space to share.

woman online having a therapy session with group

Types of Online Group Therapy

Here are some kinds of virtual group options you can choose:

 

Skills Group

Learn ways to control anger, emotion, and thoughts. These groups often use dialectical behavior therapy or exposure therapy.

 

Support Groups

Share stories with others who have the same condition. Great for addiction, bipolar disorder, or seasonal affective disorder.

 

Therapy for Specific Conditions

Groups made for people with certain conditions, such as:

How to Start Today?

Here’s how to begin:

  1. Request a consultation online.

  2. Talk with a mental health professional about your needs.

  3. Join the right group sessions for your situation.

  4. Get support from a community of people just like you.

You can join from anywhere, even your bedroom. No waiting rooms. No travel. Just healing.

What You’ll Learn in Group Therapy

Group therapy is more than just talking. You’ll gain:

  • Insight about your thoughts and actions

  • Better coping and management tools

  • Confidence in sharing your story

  • Healthy ways to deal with fear, panic, and sadness

  • Skills to handle stress, anger, and relationships

How Therapy Helps Mental Health

Whether it’s anxiety, substance abuse, or depression, group therapy gives you strength. You don’t have to do it alone. You’ll meet others, talk, and grow.

Every health professional in your group wants the best for you. You’ll get expert care in every session.

What is the difference between group therapy and support groups?

Group therapy is led by a licensed therapist and focuses on learning skills and improving mental health. Support groups offer peer support and shared experiences, often without a therapist.

Don’t Let Social Stigma Stop You

Some people feel shame when asking for help. This is called social stigma. But the truth is, getting help is brave. Everyone deserves good health.

Online group therapy makes it easier to get care without judgment. No one sees you walking into a clinic. You can feel safe and supported right from your home.

people in a group therapy session

Online Group Therapy Is for You

Whether you’re dealing with:

  • Anxiety

  • Major depressive disorder

  • ADHD

  • Addiction

  • Parenting stress

  • Anger management

…there is a group waiting to welcome you.

With help from licensed therapists, support from peers, and guidance from experts in psychology and psychiatry, you can feel better.

Ready to Start?

Find a skills group or support group that fits your needs. Look for options covered by your health insurance or Medicare. Use your patient portal to sign in. It’s easy, private, and made just for you.

Don’t wait. The help you need is just a few clicks away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is online group therapy effective?

Yes. Online group therapy can be very effective, especially when the group is therapist-led, meets regularly, and uses proven skills (like CBT or DBT tools). Many people improve because they get support, structure, and real-life practice with other people—without having to travel.
Most online therapy groups are usually 6–12 people, but it can vary. Smaller groups may feel more personal. Medium groups can offer more shared experiences and perspectives. A therapist will guide the group so everyone has space to participate.
That’s completely normal. Many people start by listening and sharing only small things at first. A good group doesn’t force you to speak before you’re ready. You can set a goal like: “I’ll introduce myself,” or “I’ll share one sentence today,” and build confidence over time.
Yes—many people do both. Individual therapy can help you go deeper into personal topics, and group therapy can help you practice skills, feel less alone, and learn from others. Some people use group therapy as their main support, while others use it alongside 1:1 sessions.
Yes—confidentiality is a big part of online group therapy, but it has limits. The therapist is required to protect your privacy, and most groups have clear rules that members should not share what others say. That said, because other members are involved, confidentiality also depends on everyone respecting the rules. Your therapist should explain: