Group Therapy: Finding Strength and Healing in Shared Experience
Updated: 3 days ago
Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026
Editorial note: This article is provided for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified mental health professional before making decisions about therapy or treatment.
Quick Answer: What is group therapy?
Group therapy is talk therapy in which one or two licensed psychotherapists treat several people with the same diagnosis at once. [1] It is used for anxiety, depression, PTSD and substance use disorders and for many conditions works about as well as individual therapy. [1] Sessions usually last 60 to 120 minutes, [1] with members learning coping skills from each other.
What the research says
Group therapy beats no treatment for anxiety disorders and was not significantly different from individual therapy. Across 57 randomized trials with 3,656 participants, group psychotherapy reduced anxiety symptoms far more than no treatment (g = 0.92, 95% CI 0.81–1.03). The difference versus individual psychotherapy was not significant (g = 0.24, 95% CI −0.09 to 0.57; 7 comparisons) (Barkowski et al., Psychotherapy Research, 2020). [2]
For social anxiety disorder, group therapy shows medium to large benefits. In 36 randomized trials of 2,171 patients, mostly cognitive-behavioral group therapy, symptoms improved versus wait-list controls (g = 0.84, 95% CI 0.72–0.97), with no differences when group therapy was compared directly with individual psychotherapy or medication (Barkowski et al., Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 2016). [3]
For bulimia nervosa the evidence is thinner and mixed. Across 10 trials, remission was more likely with group CBT than with no treatment (RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.62–0.96) and weekly binges were lower (2.9 vs 6.9). The evidence was low quality, and the one study comparing it with individual CBT found group CBT less effective for remission (RR 1.24, 95% CI 1.03–1.50) (Polnay et al., Psychological Medicine, 2014). [4]
The Foundation of Group Therapy
Group therapy is a powerful form of psychotherapy that brings together individuals who share similar challenges or diagnoses. Led by licensed mental health professionals, these sessions create a collaborative environment where members can learn with and from one another. [1] Unlike a support group, group therapy is a formal, evidence-based treatment led by a therapist who provides structure and applies specific clinical approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Interpersonal Therapy (IPT). [1]
This treatment modality is highly versatile and can be used as a standalone intervention or in conjunction with individual therapy and medication. [1] It is effective for a wide range of mental health conditions, including mood disorders, eating disorders, and neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD. [1] Additionally, it can help individuals cope with the emotional impact of physical diagnoses such as chronic pain or cancer. [1]
How Group Therapy Works
The process of group therapy typically begins with a referral and an initial assessment by the lead therapist to ensure the group is a good fit for the individual. [1] Once the group is formed, members meet regularly—often weekly—for sessions that range from 60 to 120 minutes. [1] While the size of groups can vary, they typically consist of seven to 10 members. [1]
Aspect | Description |
Format | Can be conducted in-person or through secure online (virtual) platforms. |
Structure | Groups may be open-ended or have a set number of sessions with specific goals. |
Leadership | Sessions are guided by one or two licensed mental health professionals. |
Privacy | Members usually sign confidentiality agreements to protect everyone's privacy. |
The Benefits of a Shared Therapeutic Environment
Research consistently shows that group therapy is as effective as individual therapy for many conditions. [1] Beyond clinical outcomes, the group setting offers several unique advantages that can accelerate the healing process.
Benefit | How it Supports Healing |
Sense of Belonging | Connecting with others who "get it" reduces feelings of isolation and loneliness. |
Increased Self-Worth | The opportunity to support and encourage other members boosts self-esteem. |
Learning from Others | Observing how others navigate similar problems provides new perspectives and skills. |
Improved Social Skills | The group environment serves as a safe space to practice effective communication. |
Sense of Hope | Witnessing the progress and success of peers inspires hope for one's own recovery. |
Practical Advantages | Group therapy is often more affordable and easier to schedule than individual sessions. |
Navigating the Challenges
While group therapy is highly beneficial, it may not be suitable for everyone at every stage of their journey. Potential members may initially find it difficult to open up in front of others or may feel overwhelmed by the stories shared by their peers. [1] Conflicts can occasionally arise between members, and while confidentiality is emphasized, the legal standards for privacy among group members differ from those applied to licensed therapists. [1]
Conclusion
Group therapy offers a unique and effective pathway to healing by leveraging the power of human connection. Under the expert guidance of a mental health professional, individuals can gain deep insights into their conditions, develop practical coping strategies, and find a supportive community that understands their struggles. By sharing the therapeutic journey, members often find that they are not only stronger together but also better equipped to face future challenges with confidence and resilience.
Next Steps
Consult Your Provider: Talk to your doctor or current therapist to see if group therapy is a good option for you.
Identify Your Goals: Consider what specific challenges or skills you would like to address in a group setting.
Prepare for the Assessment: Be ready to discuss your history and treatment needs with the lead therapist.
Commit to the Process: Regular attendance and active participation are key to getting the most out of group therapy.
Sources: Cleveland Clinic — Group Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is group therapy?
Group therapy is a form of talk therapy where a licensed professional treats multiple people with the same diagnosis at the same time.
2. Is it as effective as individual therapy?
Yes, studies suggest that group therapy is just as effective as individual therapy for many diagnoses.
3. How many people are in a group?
Groups typically consist of seven to 10 members, though this can vary.
4. Who leads the sessions?
Sessions are led by one or two licensed mental health professionals.
5. What conditions does it treat?
Group therapy is used for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, substance use disorders, and more.
6. Can it help with physical illnesses?
Yes, it can help individuals cope with diagnoses like cancer, obesity, and chronic pain.
7. How long are the sessions?
Sessions are typically between 60 and 120 minutes long.
8. Is it the same as a support group?
No, group therapy is a clinical treatment led by a professional, while support groups are often peer-led.
9. How do I join a group?
Most people are referred by a healthcare provider and then assessed by the group's therapist for "fit."
10. Is group therapy private?
Members sign confidentiality agreements, though they are not held to the same legal standards as therapists.
11. What happens during a session?
Members share experiences, learn about their diagnosis, and practice new coping skills.
12. What if I don't like someone in the group?
Conflict is a potential risk, but therapists are trained to help the group navigate these issues.
13. Is it cheaper than individual therapy?
Yes, group therapy is often less expensive, though costs vary.
14. How long does the whole treatment last?
The length of treatment varies; some groups have a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended.
15. When will I feel better?
Improvement varies by individual, but it typically takes several sessions to notice results.
Related Reading
Support Groups: What They Are, Types, Benefits, and How to Find One explains peer support groups and how to find one.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): What It Is, What It Treats and What to Expect describes CBT, a therapy often delivered in group settings.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): What It Is, the 4 Skills, and How It Works explains DBT and its group skills-training sessions.
Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy): Types, Uses and What to Expect reviews the main types of talk therapy and how they help.
References
Cleveland Clinic. Group therapy. Cleveland Clinic. Last updated December 2, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/group-therapy
Barkowski S, Schwartze D, Strauss B, et al. Efficacy of group psychotherapy for anxiety disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychother Res. 2020;30(8):965-982. PMID 32093586. https://doi.org/10.1080/10503307.2020.1729440
Barkowski S, Schwartze D, Strauss B, et al. Efficacy of group psychotherapy for social anxiety disorder: a meta-analysis of randomized-controlled trials. J Anxiety Disord. 2016;39:44-64. PMID 26953823. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.janxdis.2016.02.005
Polnay A, James VAW, Hodges L, et al. Group therapy for people with bulimia nervosa: systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychol Med. 2014;44(11):2241-2254. PMID 24238470. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0033291713002791
Medical disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified mental health professional before making decisions about therapy or treatment.
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