Group Therapy and Support Groups in Philadelphia, PA (original) (raw)

Support Groups in Philadelphia, PA

Children of chaotic families have been physically and/or emotionally neglected by their parents. They are usually parentified (do things which pertain to adults) and feel dismissed. Chaotic families are composed by one or more members with addiction, chronic mental illness, physical mental illness and/or controlling behaviors. Coming from an environment of a family with complicated dynamics has an impact in adult interpersonal relationships, self-esteem, productivity, and self-confidence. With our group you will learn how to set boundaries, establish healthy relationships, validate and manage difficult emotions and will be able to establish intimate emotional relationships.

Photo of Liora Schneider, Psychologist, PsyD

Hosted by Liora Schneider

An safe, supportive atmosphere for exploring relationship patterns, creating more awareness, and learning new behaviors to enable healthy intimacy. Also, dealing with loss, grief, bereavement in all its forms. .

Photo of Marion Rudin Frank, Psychologist, EdD, MA

Hosted by Marion Rudin Frank

This group is for anyone who is trying to conceive, experiencing infertility, or going through/considering fertility treatment. We meet once per week, virtually, for one-hour to connect with others who are going through similar situations, with the ultimate goal of creating community and feeling less alone.

Photo of Alexis Zollo, Psychologist, Ph.D.

In this group, we explore individual narratives to “body image,” as well as the differences between body positivity, body neutrality, and HAES (Health At Every Size). We explore barriers to embodiment including socio-economic status, genetics, family/societal myths/beliefs, stigmas, trauma, consistent invalidation, sports, religion, not identifying with your body, body-shame, etc. We unpack cognitive distortions, learn skills in emotion regulation, and explore mindfulness & body movement as ways to connect with the body. We utilize ACT (Acceptance Commitment Therapy) to bring individualized values into creating new narratives about body image.

Photo of Alexandra Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC

Hosted by Alexandra Roberts

Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC

Self-described as a “Recovery 2.0” group, the body liberation process group has met twice a month for the last six years (and counting). The group is intended for folks who have moved to a solid place in their eating disorder recovery, yet they are still struggling with things such as using their voice, setting boundaries, having lasting positive relationships, and repeating unhelpful interpersonal patterns. In this group, members get the benefit of receiving support from a therapist and a small group of people who are committed to recovery.

Photo of Emily Capelli, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC

Hosted by Emily Capelli

Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC

A supportive space for women to talk, process, and navigate what it means to be a woman in today’s world.

Photo of Kalli Hammond, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC

Hosted by Kalli Hammond

Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC

A supportive space for women to talk, process, and navigate what it means to be a woman in today’s world.

Learn techniques for relaxation and mindfulness during infertility. 8 week Fertility Wellness Support Group includes 6 acupuncture sessions, 2 fertility yoga sessions & 3 sessions for couples to attend together. A chance for you and your partner/spouse to learn skills to reduce anxiety, cope with worry, take care of yourself. and nurture your relationship. For Penn Fertility Care patients & their partners. Meets 4 times a year. Offers a safe, supportive environment to share feelings, dreams & struggles after having failed attempts or challenges with pregnancy. For women and couples receiving or not receiving fertility treatment, single parents, same-sex partners, and couples using third-party reproduction.

Photo of Pamela Kelberg - Pamela Kelberg, LCSW, CST Certified Sex Therapist , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CST

Hosted by Pamela Kelberg, LCSW, CST Certified Sex Therapist

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, CST

A supportive space for women to talk, process, and navigate what it means to be a woman in today’s world.

Photo of Daniele Cole, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC

Hosted by Daniele Cole

Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC

A supportive space for women to talk, process, and navigate what it means to be a woman in today’s world.

Blending therapy and exercise to build strength and confidence

Photo of Kasey Manwaring, Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC

Hosted by Kasey Manwaring

Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC

Blending therapy and exercise to build strength and confidence

Please contact me if interested in additional information.

Photo of Amy S Langsam, Psychologist, PsyD

Please contact me if interested in additional information.

Child and teen group sessions available to help youth learn age-appropriate coping and social skills. Group sessions empower youth and alleviate inappropriate behaviors and manage emotions. Youth explore and express feelings in a safe and encouraging environment without judgment. Youth receive positive verbal feedback and learn how to manage anger, stress, anxiety, sadness, loneliness, overwhelmed feelings and depression. Youth learn positive coping strategies, eliminate bullying behaviors and have fun using stress balls, therapeutic anger punching balloons, relaxation exercises, practice worksheets, games, etc. Healthy snacks and brunch available (Call/Text #267-523-3344 for more information/ East Mount Airy, Philadelphia.).

Photo of Rosalind Jefferson - RJ Cares, LLC, MSW

This group is a 6 week commitment where participants will be supported in creating one piece of art over a series of 6 sessions, each 90 minutes long. The group offers a space to develop distress tolerance for receiving feedback, taking vulnerable action, and struggling with dissatisfaction.

Photo of Kathleen Scheppe, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR

Hosted by Kathleen Scheppe

Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR

This group helps children identify and practice coping skills that can be used to help with anger management concerns, impulsiveness, frustration and more. For children ages 7-10 years old.

Photo of Dr. Taja Mclean, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT

Hosted by Dr. Taja Mclean

Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT

This group helps children identify and practice coping skills that can be used to help with anger management concerns, impulsiveness, frustration and more. For children ages 7-10 years old.

Learn new strategies for reducing symptoms and relapses of depression, and for living a more meaningful, connected, and productive life in a supportive community of your peers. All groups are FREE and confidential: no insurance, diagnosis or registration required. Support groups are led by trained peer facilitators; and we do not provide clinical or medical advice. Go to our website (livewell-foundation.org) for a full schedule of online groups for adults, teens, seniors, physicians, and people with co-occurring depression and addiction.

Photo of Stefanie Glick - LiveWell Therapy Group, Licensed Social Worker, LCSW, LSW

Hosted by LiveWell Therapy Group

Licensed Social Worker, LCSW, LSW

Free book club. Book title can change. depending on what folks are interested in reading.

Photo of Natalie Langham, Associate Professional Counselor, LAPC

Hosted by Natalie Langham

Associate Professional Counselor, LAPC

Free book club. Book title can change. depending on what folks are interested in reading.

Are you struggling to control your temper? Do small things trigger you? Would you like to respond instead of reacting in anger? Serenity Solutions will be running our Anger Management Group starting 7/22/26. You will learn 1) how to catch yourself when you are triggered so that you can decide how to respond instead of reacting in a way that you might later regret, 2) how to communicate your anger in respectful ways that feel good to you and the person you are communicating with, and 3) how to decrease triggers by learning how to manage your stress.

Photo of Alisa Kamis-Brinda - Serenity Solutions, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC

Hosted by Serenity Solutions, LLC

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC

For men looking to investigate the mythologies of "manhood" and be in fellowship and and grow as fathers, husbands, sons, lovers, and leaders. For better relationships and deeper self-knowlege. Learn tips and tricks for emotional regulation, self-discovery, and better communication. --Groups usually meet on Thursday or Friday. Schedules TBD. Groups meet in downtown Philadelphia. Contact me by email or PHL Therapy Colective for more information. If there is no room in the current group, a waitlist is provided and you will be contacted before the start of the next group.

Photo of Steven Rishard, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAPC

Hosted by Steven Rishard

Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LAPC

Anger Management is a service designed to meet the needs of adults struggling with anger issues. The focus of the service is to help individuals address their anger in a group setting or one-to-through counseling or coaching, dialect, role-playing and interactive activities. Group sessions are 8 weeks in length 90-minute sessions. Additional and individual sessions are tailored to meet individual needs. This program is designed to educate and help clients gain awareness and learn new skills to understand their anger. Services are provided at our office location and home based settings.

Photo of Ebony Eubanks - Peaceful Living Counseling Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, ACSW, CAMS-II, CGT

Hosted by Peaceful Living Counseling Associates

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, ACSW, CAMS-II, CGT

The purpose of this group is to explain what Life Coaching is and how to identify if one needs a Life Coach. The Clients are welcome to sign up for one-on one sessions or they can continue to have workshops with me. One-on one sessions will depend on when you are available. Workshops can be online or in person if clients live in my area. All ages are welcome but Children under 18 must have permission by their parents.

Photo of Valerie Anne Davis

Hosted by Valerie Anne Davis

Feeling not like yourself lately? Our DBT Skills Group is a supportive space to help you manage emotions, build confidence, and strengthen your relationships, both with yourself and others. Each week, we’ll explore practical tools, like mindfulness, emotional regulation, and communication skills that help you feel more grounded and in control. You’ll leave each session with real strategies (not just theory) and a community that gets it. If you’re ready to feel more balanced, connected, and confident, come drop in and start building your toolbox for change. This group is great for anxiety, depression, bipolar, and more!

Photo of Erik Cayse Osterlund, Counselor, MA, LAPC

Hosted by Erik Cayse Osterlund

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

FAQs - About Group Therapy and Support Groups

How can I find a support group in Philadelphia?

To find a support group in your area, start by entering your city, zip code, or the name of the group into the search bar at the top of the page. When searching, consider whether you prefer an in-person or virtual group. This can help you decide how broad your geographic search should be. If you are open to virtual groups, you might want to search by state instead of just your city, especially if there are limited options nearby.

Once you complete your search, you can use the filters to narrow the results by selecting specialties (such as grief, trauma, or eating disorders), therapeutic approaches, age groups, and other criteria to find a group that best fits your needs.

How does group therapy work?

Group therapy is led by one or more trained therapists and provides a space where participants can process their experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges. Groups may focus on a specific issue—such as addiction, grief, physical illnesses, parenting, or caregiving—or they may center around a particular therapeutic approach, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), social skill development, or Exposure Therapy. Some groups are also designed for specific populations, such as teens, veterans, or LGBTQ+ individuals.

It’s also important to distinguish group therapy from peer-led support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous. While both can offer valuable support, therapy groups are typically led by licensed professionals and follow a more structured format. Therapy groups often meet for a fixed length of time with a consistent group of members, while many peer support groups meet for an indefinite period of time with members coming and going.

What are the benefits of group therapy?

Group therapy offers several important benefits. It brings together people facing similar challenges—whether related to mental health, physical health, or life transitions—and creates a supportive environment where participants can exchange feedback, share experiences, and learn from one another. Hearing different perspectives can help individuals discover new coping strategies and practical tools they may not have encountered on their own. Sharing personal experiences, such as coping with a serious illness or navigating family struggles, can also reduce feelings of isolation and foster a sense of connection and understanding. In addition to emotional support, group members often gain useful, real-world advice from peers who have faced similar situations.

Group therapy is typically more affordable than individual therapy and, for certain conditions, can be equally effective. Many groups also include structured activities—such as guided journaling, cognitive-behavioral exercises, or role-playing—to help participants develop concrete skills they can apply in daily life.

Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy?

It is difficult to make a blanket statement about the effectiveness of support groups, as they vary widely in focus and the conditions they address. However, support groups can be highly valuable in helping individuals gain emotional support and achieve meaningful treatment outcomes. For certain conditions, such as substance use, research has shown that group therapy can be particularly effective—sometimes just as effective as individual therapy—in supporting long-term recovery.

Many professionals attribute the effectiveness of group therapy to the unique benefits of the group setting, which fosters peer-to-peer learning and a sense of connection through shared experiences. Group settings also offer accountability and encouragement from both facilitators and fellow participants, which helps sustain motivation and supports continued progress. These factors together play a key role in promoting the overall effectiveness of group therapy.

How much does group therapy cost?

Group therapy is typically less expensive than individual therapy, with sessions typically costing between 50and50 and 50and75 each. In comparison, individual therapy can cost anywhere from 100to100 to 100to200 or more per session, even with insurance. Some therapists or organizations offer low-cost or free group therapy options, particularly through community centers or nonprofit organizations. In some cases, groups may require payment upfront for a set number of sessions, such as paying for six weekly sessions at the first meeting. However, many providers offer payment plans to help make participation more accessible if this upfront payment is required.

Does insurance cover group therapy?

As with individual therapy, insurance coverage for group therapy varies based on factors such as your specific insurance plan, the purpose of the group, your diagnosis, and whether the group provider is in-network. Many insurance plans cover group therapy sessions that address diagnosable mental health conditions, such as substance use disorders, anxiety, or depression.

However, groups that focus on topics not directly tied to a mental health diagnosis—such as parenting support or divorce recovery—are less likely to be covered. Because coverage can vary widely, it’s important to check with your insurance provider before joining a group to confirm whether the sessions will be covered and what out-of-pocket costs you may be responsible for.

How long does group therapy last?

The length of each group therapy session typically ranges from 45 minutes to two hours, depending on the therapy approach, the group’s goals, and how often the group meets. In some cases, group therapy is part of a larger treatment program, such as an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), where group sessions complement individual therapy and are scheduled as part of the program’s overall structure.

The duration of participation in a group also varies. Some groups are designed to be short-term, lasting anywhere from 6 to 24 weeks—for example, bereavement groups or skills-based groups like those using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Other groups may be longer-term, lasting a year or more, and some ongoing support groups meet indefinitely, allowing participants to stay as long as they find the group helpful.

What are the limitations of support groups?

Support groups offer many benefits, but they also have certain limitations. Unlike therapy groups, many support groups do not provide formal therapeutic treatment and are not led by licensed mental health professionals. For individuals seeking clinical treatment for specific mental health diagnoses—such as depression, eating disorders, or substance use—individual therapy or group therapy led by a licensed professional may offer more personalized and specialized care.

The effectiveness of a support group also depends heavily on the group’s participants and the overall group dynamic. When members engage respectfully and offer constructive support, the group can foster valuable peer-to-peer learning. However, if certain participants dominate discussions, provide inaccurate advice, or create conflict, it can disrupt the group’s sense of safety and reduce its effectiveness. Confidentiality can also be harder to maintain in support groups, particularly in open groups where participants can join or leave at any time. With new members regularly entering the group, it can be more difficult to build and sustain a consistent sense of trust and privacy.