In our search for the best online group therapy and support groups of 2024, we tried and tested 53 platforms, rating them for cost, quality of care, group topics, availability, and therapist credentials. Drawing on our editorial team’s 3+ years of research and 250+ hours in online therapy firsthand, we narrowed our list to the 12 best online group therapy options.
Best Online Group Therapy & Support Groups at a Glance
Our Picks for Best Online Group Therapy & Support Groups
- Best Overall Group Therapy – Grouport
- Best Free Online Support Groups – Therapy Tribe
- Best For Toxic & Narcissistic Relationships – Circles
- Best Group Support Through Messaging – 7 Cups
- Best For Sobriety Support – Reframe
- Best Group For Alcohol Use Disorder – Monument
- Best Group Therapy For OCD – NOCD
- Best Group Therapy For Grief – Brave Health
- Best Group Therapy For Postpartum Depression – Catalyss
- Best Support For Chronic Illness Support – Center for Chronic Illness
- Best Support For Eating Disorder Recovery – ANAD
- Honorable Mention – Mindful Care
Why Trust Us
250+
Companies reviewed1,050+
Hours of first-hand experience825+
Data points analyzedChoosing Therapy’s reviews are fair, honest, and thorough. To date, we’ve reviewed mental health products and services offered by more than 250 companies. That has involved more than 1,050 hours of firsthand use of those products and consideration of over 825 data points. Our editorial policies outline a rigorous review process, but they all boil down to this: produce a review that your own friends and family could rely on. Learn more here.
Detailed Reviews of the Best Online Group Therapy & Support Groups
- Cost: $35 per session; $140 monthly
- Insurance Accepted? No
- Service location: US & international
- Therapist or peer-led? Therapist
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
We chose Grouport as the Best Overall Group Therapy Online because its user-friendly platform makes it easy to connect with others meaningfully. The diverse range of specialized DBT groups allows everyone to find the support they need for their specific mental health concerns. Additionally, the high-quality, professional facilitation by licensed therapists ensures that participants receive the best possible care.
Pros & Cons
- Easy-to-navigate client portal you can access from any browser
- Provides a one-on-one consultation to ensure you’re placed in the right group
- Offers online DBT skills training groups and group therapy covering many topics
- Subscription includes community events and webinars
- Does not accept insurance
- Must purchase a monthly subscription; they do not offer single sessions
- Little to no communication with therapist between sessions
- Some specialized group therapy availability is limited by location
Cost
- Grouport subscriptions cost $140 monthly, advertised as $35 weekly
- $35/session x 4 60-minute group sessions/month
- Grouport’s DBT skills group costs $299 for an initial 12-week billing
- $25 per week ($25/session x 12 sessions)
- Grouport’s DBT skills group after 12 weeks: $100 at the start of each billing cycle
- $25/session x 4 sessions/month
Overview
Grouport is an online group therapy platform that offers specialized group therapy covering topics like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and grief. They also offer group dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) skills training nationwide. Grouport’s therapists are experienced, licensed, and properly vetted, which helps create a safe and welcoming atmosphere in the group meetings.
Grouport’s therapist-led groups empower people to engage in an evidence-based approach where they can feel less alone and develop critical emotional and relationship skills. They also advertise as having consistent group members, so you can expect to see many of the same faces again and again.
To learn more about this platform, read our independent Grouport review.
In Our Experience
I attended Grouport’s transformative DBT training, which taught skills to manage emotions, cope with setbacks, and improve relationships. While it’s labeled as training, it has the essence of a group therapy session, with the added bonus of DBT skill-building exercises.
- Cost: Free
- Insurance Accepted? No
- Service location: Nationwide
- Therapist or peer-led? Peer
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
We picked Therapy Tribe as Best Free Support Group because users can access an activity stream, forum, and chat room, as well as challenges and mood mapping, for free. With this offering, it is the most comprehensive free group support available online.
Pros & Cons
- Online wellness community is completely free to join
- Features member blog to share your story
- Members can send and receive “kudos” to inspire and motivate
- Support groups are peer-led, not run by licensed therapists
- Message boards are moderated by peers, not by licensed therapists
- Doesn’t have a mobile app
Cost
It’s completely free to join Therapy Tribe’s online wellness community. However, membership, which is more for therapists, costs $29.95 monthly or $299 annually, which can be paid on a month-to-month or year-to-year basis. Membership allows practitioners to create a directory listing, publish blogs/articles, and host a website.
Overview
Therapy Tribe is an online wellness community designed to provide a safe space for individuals to connect and support each other. The platform features niche “tribes,” focused on topics such as depression, OCD, and HIV/AIDs. While Therapy Tribe offers peer support and a sense of community, it is not a replacement for individual therapy with a licensed therapist.
Therapy Tribe has created a diverse wellness community. Users have the flexibility to participate in the broader conversation or to limit their interactions to their core support group(s). This approach ensures members can find the level of interaction and support that best suits their needs.
In Our Experience
While not a replacement for individual therapy or even for therapist-led group therapy, I believe Therapy Tribe’s comfortable community empowers people to open up and start to heal.
- Cost: $29.99 monthly; $129.00 for six months; $179 annually
- Insurance accepted? No
- Service location: Nationwide
- Therapist or peer-led? Both
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
Circles distinguishes itself as Best for Toxic & Narcissistic Relationships because it offers support groups and group therapy tailored to these specific challenges. The platform provides a safe space where participants can share their experiences and learn coping strategies from both peers and professionals. Additionally, the structured sessions led by experienced therapists ensure that members receive focused and effective guidance in navigating and healing from toxic relationships.
Pros & Cons
- 24/7 live support groups
- Seven-day free trial
- Access to message board forums to chat with other members
- Option to stay anonymous
- Does not accept insurance
- Support groups are audio only
- Limited to two broad topics: divorce and narcissistic relationships
- Not always clear when you’re talking to a mental health professional or a peer
Cost
Circles+ costs $29.99 monthly, $129.00 for six months ($21/month), or $179.00 annually ($14.9/month). There is a seven-day free trial. They do not accept insurance.
A Circles membership gives you access to:
- Weekly group sessions
- Sessions led by relationship experts
- Personal care manager
- Community support
Overview
Circles guides you to the appropriate group support based on your needs, whether you’re dealing with a “Narcissistic Relationship” involving a significant other, friend, or family member, or experiencing a “Divorce/Breakup.” The platform offers unlimited access to online audio support group meetings and message board forums.
Circles’ online support group meetings are hosted by mental health professionals. These groups, referred to as “Circles,” are audio-only and available multiple times a day. Additionally, members have the flexibility to host or “Guide” their own peer support group meetings at any time.
To learn more about this app, check out our Circles app review.
In Our Experience
I appreciate Circles’ 24/7 access to unlimited meetings. Users always have a meaningful community to turn to, even if they just want to listen in. Although I find their audio-only meetings somewhat limiting, they offer an added layer of anonymity for those who really need it, as many in toxic relationships do.
- Cost: Free with upgrades
- Insurance Accepted? No
- Service location: Worldwide
- Therapist or peer-led? Peer
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
We picked 7 Cups for its messaging capabilities. Even though it’s a chat-based community (i.e., no group video or audio), it has an enormous mental health database. In addition to 24/7 access to chat forums, users can also interact with an AI counselor, Noni, which provides tips and tricks to navigate the app.
Pros & Cons
- Free, 24/7 chat
- Option to be anonymous
- Access to AI counselor, Noni
- Includes forums and self-help guides
- Overwhelming amount of content
- Occasionally glitchy
- Lacks adequate moderation
- Limited virtual tech support
Cost
7 Cups is a free peer support community with optional premium upgrades and add-ons.
- Premium costs $7.99/month billed annually or $12.99 monthly: Chat daily, group support, chat with Noni, premium growth paths, games
- Messaging therapy costs $159 monthly: Chat daily, group support, daily chat with Noni, premium growth paths, games, chat with a therapist daily
- Talk therapy costs $299 monthly: Chat daily, group support, daily chat with Noni, premium growth paths, games, weekly talk therapy sessions
Overview
On 7 Cups, not only can you find peer-to-peer support for issues like depression, anxiety, relationships, LGBTQ+ issues, life transitions, and more, licensed therapists are also available for daily messaging and tailored guidance via phone or video. Think of it as a way to be in community with people who are going through similar struggles.
The free general membership definitely feels like another form of social media, which could be good or bad, depending on the context. Its messaging capabilities, chat rooms, and message forums are unparalleled in terms of the sheer amount of content. Premium upgrades provide access to therapists, additional information, and a more structured growth pathway.
For more information, explore our 7 Cups app review.
In Our Experience
7 Cups isn’t only for teens and adolescents, but I imagine its messaging capabilities make it appealing to younger generations. The only downside of its far-reaching chat features is the lack of moderation on forums. Users can interact somewhat unchecked, and while the AI chatbot is a unique feature, it seems to be used to replace (or at least heavily supplement) a responsive tech support team.
- Cost: $24.99 – $249.99 monthly
- Insurance accepted? No
- Service location: US & International
- Therapist or peer-led? Therapist
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
We chose Reframe as the best group therapy app for sobriety because it’s a private and anonymous online community. Thrive Coaching gives users access to a certified recovery coach, premium content, and live group coaching.
Pros & Cons
- 24/7 private, anonymous community forum
- Has a mobile app
- Seven-day free trial
- Does not accept insurance
- Doesn’t always provide coach qualifications ahead of time
- Specific add-on costs are unclear
Cost
On average, Reframe costs $100 annually, with optional add-ons. More specifically, it can range from $24.99 to $249.99 monthly. It also offers a seven-day free trial.
Reframe app costs include:
- Base membership ($24.99 monthly; $119.99 annually) – Includes all base features such as the Toolkit, educational readings and blogs, cravings mode, daily trackers, and the community forum.
- 1:1 Coaching sessions ($249.99 monthly; $79.99 a la carte) – The monthly coaching plan includes three one-on-one 45-minute live sessions with a coach each month, plus unlimited messaging with a coach. A la carte sessions include one 45-minute live session with a coach.
- Group Coaching sessions ($49.99 monthly) – Includes weekly 60-minute live sessions with a coach and other Reframe users.
- Messaging sessions ($99.99 monthly) – Includes unlimited messaging with coach but excludes live sessions.
Overview
Reframe uses neuroscience to support behavior change, specifically as it relates to alcohol consumption. It offers an evidence-based program, comprehensive tools, and a supportive community to help people unlock the best version of themselves.
Thrive Coaching, a new addition designed to help users change their relationship with alcohol, is a key feature. Users have access to a certified recovery coach or a licensed mental health professional, offering personalized support. Reframe’s innovative approach and support system makes it a powerful resource for those looking to achieve lasting, positive change.
In Our Experience
Reframe is well known for a reason. It’s not perfect, but I think it’s an engaging and effective way to both build a network of peers and seek professional help.
- Cost: $14.99 – $249 monthly
- Insurance accepted? Yes
- Service location: 19 US states
- Therapist or peer-led? Peer
- Prescribe Medication? Yes
Why We Chose It
We feel Monument is one of the best groups for alcohol dependency because members receive unlimited access to moderated support groups and message board forums.
Pros & Cons
- Membership includes one-on-one sessions with a licensed therapist
- Addresses co-occurring anxiety and/or depression
- Includes virtual meetings with peer support groups
- Accepts Medicare
- Doesn’t offer support groups for issues beyond alcohol dependence & alcohol use disorder (AUD)
- Doesn’t have a mobile app
- Does not accept Medicaid
- Must be a member to access group services
Cost
Monument accepts insurance and provides various tiered payment plans, with costs ranging from $14.99 to +$249 monthly for more individualized care and medication assisted treatment (MAT).
For $14.99 monthly, you receive access to moderated virtual support groups, a 24/7 community forum, accountability tools, and personalized care from experts.
Overview
Monument is an online MAT program designed to help people quit or reduce their alcohol consumption. Physicians can prescribe naltrexone and disulfiram to support treatment. Monument offers one-on-one therapy, anonymous community forums, and peer support groups. Group meetings are peer-led, but all individual recovery therapists are licensed mental health professionals who specialize in addiction recovery and alcohol therapy.
Monument is available in the following states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, California, Pennsylvania, Washington, Virginia, Georgia, Colorado, Oregon, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Kentucky, Florida, Ohio, Arizona, Iowa, and Michigan.
To learn more, read our independent Monument review.
In Our Experience
Monument is a safe online environment for those struggling to quit or cut back on drinking. Wherever you are on your recovery journey, I believe Monument has a support group that’s designed for you.
- Cost: $50 – $210 per session
- Insurance accepted? Select plans
- Service location: Worldwide
- Therapist or peer-led? Therapist
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
We named NOCD Best Group Therapy for OCD because they are experts in OCD and their groups provide a safe and non-judgmental space for people with OCD and their families to share their experiences and receive support.
Pros & Cons
- Led by licensed ERP-trained therapists
- 24/7 support
- Personalized treatment plans for ages 5 and up
- Can be expensive without insurance
- Not ideal for a psychiatric emergency
- No medication plan offered through NOCD
Cost
NOCD therapy costs $110-210 per session, depending on the length. NOCD offers a free initial consultation with a licensed OCD specialist. In app features, including self help tools and OCD education are free. Group therapy is offered at no additional cost.
NOCD therapy costs:
- 60-minute therapy session: $210
- 45-minute therapy session: $160
- 30-minute therapy session: $110
To further enhance accessibility, NOCD accepts many health insurance plans, including UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, Cigna, Humana, and Blue Cross Blue Shield.
Overview
NOCD is designed to support individuals with OCD through innovative, accessible treatment. It leans into exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy and mindfulness practices to gradually expose patients to feared thoughts or situations while preventing compulsive behaviors.
The NOCD app is equipped with various features to help users manage their OCD symptoms. These include immediate guidance during an OCD episode, which provides real-time support and strategies to handle intrusive thoughts and urges. Additionally, the app offers a community element, including a range of groups, like Managing OCD, Autism and OCD, OCD: Sexual Content, Relationship OCD, Religious OCD, and more.
For more information, read our NOCD review.
In Our Experience
I believe people can trust NOCD. The last thing you want is misinformation based on false stereotypes. Here, you have access to experts and evidence-based treatment.
- Cost: $82.50 per session
- Insurance accepted? Yes
- Service location: 7 US States
- Therapist or peer-led? Therapist
- Prescribe Medication? Yes
Why We Chose It
We chose Brave as Best Group Therapy for Grief; you can do group therapy on its own or integrate it into a broad plan for complicated grief.
Pros & Cons
- Most insurance accepted
- Clinician-led therapy and peer support available
- Over 40 therapist-led group topics, including grief
- Doesn’t have a mobile app
- Expensive initial consultation & per-session cost
- Online services only available in seven states
Cost
Brave Health costs $82.50 per group session. An initial consultation with a medical provider costs $390.00. The cost per individual hour-long counseling session is $300. Note: There is a $50 no-show fee.
Other outpatient costs include:
- Cost per appointment for medication management: $258
- Medication management, supportive therapy: $182
- 30-minute counseling appointment: $150
- 45-minute counseling appointment: $225
- 60-minute counseling appointment: $300
- Family services: $270
Overview
Brave Health provides comprehensive telehealth-enabled mental health care solutions. Their services include individual therapy, psychiatry and medication management, marriage and family counseling, clinician-led group therapy, and specialized therapeutic programs. Currently, Brave Health prescribes controlled substances such as stimulants, benzodiazepines, and hypnotics exclusively to Florida patients.
One of the key offerings at Brave Health is their evidence-based group therapy. This collaborative approach is designed to support individuals facing challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, addiction, and anger. Groups are facilitated by a skilled mental health professional who guides, teaches, and promotes change within the group.
Virtual services are available in the following states: Texas, Ohio, New Mexico, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, and New York.
In Our Experience
I learned that group therapy with Brave Health is uniquely tailored to the needs of each specific group, ensuring that the sessions are relevant and impactful for all participants. The adaptability of the sessions fosters a sense of community and belonging, as each member plays a vital role in the group’s progress and success.
- Cost: $60 – $70 per session
- Insurance accepted? No
- Service location: Groups available nationwide
- Therapist or peer-led? Therapist
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
Because Catalyss addresses a broad spectrum of postpartum issues, including postpartum anxiety, depression, and the complex emotional challenges that new parents often face, we selected it as the Best Group Therapy for Postpartum. Catalyss’s comprehensive approach ensures that every aspect of postpartum mental health is covered, providing essential support for new mothers navigating this critical period.
Pros & Cons
- Free 20-minute phone consultation
- Groups available anywhere
- Therapist-led
- Individual therapy only available in Colorado
- No groups for kids
- Doesn’t have mobile app
Cost
There is a required initial $150 Group Screening/Intake appointment. Process & Therapy Groups cost $70 per 55-minute session. Support Groups cost $60 per 55-minute session. There is also a $25/session grad student support group and young adult connections group, as well as a three-part $150 EcoTherapy Anxiety Group.
Overview
Catalyss offers individual therapy in Colorado; however, their support groups are available from anywhere. Their therapists offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointment times for individual therapy, both online and in-person, to accommodate people’s busy lives.
Catalyss Counseling offers online group counseling for specific topics, including postpartum issues, anxiety, grief, miscarriages, pregnancy loss, birth trauma, and PTSD. The postpartum support group is a small, closed group (up to six members). This allows you to get to know the people in your group and receive more personalized attention.
In Our Experience
I particularly love their claim that “healing occurs in the context of relationships.” So true. Especially for new mothers dealing with postpartum issues. The early stages of motherhood can be incredibly isolating, and the support of others who truly understand can make all the difference.
- Cost: Free
- Insurance accepted? Not needed
- Service location: Worldwide
- Therapist or peer-led? Therapist
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
Center for Chronic Illness is our Best for Chronic Illness Support because it covers services related to many forms of illness, including chronic pain and disability.
Pros & Cons
- Free group therapy online
- Led by mental health professionals
- Have additional groups for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, caregivers, and loved ones
- Doesn’t have a mobile app
- While the majority of programs are available anywhere, two are location-specific
- No option for individual therapy
Cost
The Center for Chronic Illness provides access to free professional-led support groups and free group therapy online. They accept donations.
Overview
The Center for Chronic Illness (CCI) is dedicated to promoting well-being and reducing isolation for individuals impacted by chronic illness. They offer a range of support groups for anyone affected by chronic illness and rare diseases, including but not limited to Alzheimer’s, heart disease, Lyme disease, and Spina Bifida.
All of CCI’s programs are free, accessible virtually, and facilitated by licensed mental health professionals. By providing these supportive and educational resources, CCI ensures that individuals dealing with chronic health conditions receive the emotional and social support they need to improve their quality of life.
In Our Experience
In my opinion, CCI is a beautiful example of free group therapy online. Even better, they also have group therapy for caregivers, who are often overlooked.
- Cost: Free
- Insurance accepted? Not needed
- Service location: Nationwide
- Therapist or peer-led? Peer
- Prescribe Medication? No
Why We Chose It
We chose the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) as Best Support for Eating Disorder Recovery because they pioneered eating disorder peer support groups.
Pros & Cons
- Free
- Support for caregivers and family members
- Long history of care and support
- Participant cap
- No therapist-led groups
- Participant cap
- No weekend groups
Cost
ANAD provides a free, virtual space where people can find peer support and community in recovery.
Overview
ANAD’s online therapy groups are a free, virtual space where individuals can come together for community and support. It is the largest peer support resource for eating disorders in the United States. Key features of their eating disorder support groups include weekly meetings (75 minutes via Zoom) and a participant cap (20 participants on a first-come, first-serve basis).
People with eating disorders often find it powerful to meet with others who share their lived experience. The opportunity to share without explanation can be a crucial step in the healing process. ANAD also offers groups for family members and caregivers, recognizing the importance of a supportive network in the recovery process.
In Our Experience
I find it incredible how diverse these meetings get – people of all ages, races, religions, and backgrounds, finding common ground on their path to eating disorder recovery.
- Cost: Free with upgrades
- Insurance accepted? No
- Service location: Worldwide
- Therapist or peer-led? Peer
- Prescribe Medication? Yes
Why We Chose It
Mindful Care receives an honorable mention because it provides comprehensive group and individual support, including microtherapy, with licensed therapists. It also offers a diverse range of groups and a free support group, addressing topics such as anxiety, grief, sexual assault, chronic illness, substance use, CBT, and DBT. Unfortunately, Mindful Care is only available in six states: Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, Michigan, and New York.
Pros & Cons
- Offers a range of mental healthcare services
- Provides access to individual and group therapy programs
- Group therapy covers a variety of topics
- All groups are run by licensed therapists
- Only available in select states
- Doesn’t provide documentation for court-ordered requirements, such as drug test results
- Scheduling makes it difficult to see the same provider regularly
- Doesn’t have a mobile app
Cost
Mindful Care’s group therapy program, MindFit, costs $35 per 60-minute session out-of-pocket. An individual session (40 minutes) costs $100; Microtherapy costs $50 per session; 40-minute therapy costs $100 per session; psychiatric evaluation costs $175; and 20-minute follow-ups cost $75 per session.
If your insurance plan is accepted, costs could be significantly lower or free.
Overview
Mindful Care is an online mental healthcare platform that offers a wide range of services, including individual therapy, psychiatry, MAT, recovery treatment, group therapy, and a free support group. Mindful Care is currently available in select states but has plans to expand nationwide.
Mindful Care’s group therapy program, MindFit, is run by licensed therapists who utilize a cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) approach. Several groups are run daily, and they cover a wide range of topics. MindFit has specialized groups for anxiety, depression, the LGBTQ+ community, bipolar disorder, trauma, relationships, current events anxiety, and more.
In Our Experience
Mindful Care hosts an inclusive, judgment-free community that significantly enhanced my mindfulness. Their microtherapy sessions provide a smooth transition from group to individual therapy, making users feel supported throughout.
Compare the Best Online Group Therapy & Support Groups
Costs | $35 per group session; $140 monthly | FREE | $29.99/month | $12.99 month | $29.99/month | $14.99-$249/month | $50 - $210 per session | $82.50 per session | $25 -$150 per session | FREE | FREE | $35/session |
Accept insurance | Select Plans | Not needed | Not needed | |||||||||
Service Area | US & International | Nationwide | Nationwide | Worldwide | US & International | 19 US States | Worldwide | 7 US States | Groups nationwide | Worldwide | Worldwide | 6 US States |
Therapist /peer-led | TL | PL | Both | PL | TL | PL | TL | TL | TL | TL | PL | Both |
Prescribe Medication |
Costs | |||||||||||
$35 per group session; $140 monthly | FREE | $29.99/month | $12.99 month | $29.99/month | $14.99-$249/month | $50 - $210 per session | $82.50 per session | $25 -$150 per session | FREE | FREE | $35/session |
Accept insurance | |||||||||||
Select Plans | Not needed | Not needed | |||||||||
Service Area | |||||||||||
US & International | Nationwide | Nationwide | Worldwide | US & International | 19 US States | Worldwide | 7 US States | Groups nationwide | Worldwide | Worldwide | 6 US States |
Therapist /peer-led | |||||||||||
TL | PL | Both | PL | TL | PL | TL | TL | TL | TL | PL | Both |
Prescribe Medication | |||||||||||
Final Verdict
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can Group Therapy Be Done Online?
It’s actually quite easy to conduct online group therapy and support groups. There’s a lot of video conferencing technology available, like Zoom and Google Meet, and many platforms will take advantage of these existing systems. Some platforms have their own software built into the app that allows for video meetings with multiple people.
What is the Difference Between Group Therapy & Support Groups?
Group therapy is a structured treatment led by one or more healthcare providers. Support groups provide informal, open discussions facilitated by a peer or professional, allowing individuals with similar issues to connect and share.
Whether you opt for therapist-led group therapy or peer-led support, engaging regularly with an online community can put your own problems into perspective, reminding you you’re not alone.
Are Online Support Groups & Group Therapy Effective?
Absolutely, online support groups and group therapy can be effective, especially when participants are open and committed to the process. When you’re in a group with people who are going through similar experiences, you can feel safe to share your thoughts and feelings without judgment. This can be very helpful in processing your emotions and getting support from others.
Are There Any Companies Offering Free Group Therapy?
Yes, some online therapy companies do offer free group therapy sessions. Here are a few options from our list to consider:
- Therapy Tribe has free support groups
- CCI offers free therapist-led group therapy
- 7 Cups provides free group chat support
How Much Do Online Support Groups Cost?
The cost of online group therapy and support groups will vary depending on specific factors, such as the facilitators’ background, experience, and the quality of the platform. Group therapy typically costs more because it requires the group to be led by a licensed therapist in your state.
Can I Use Insurance for Group Therapy?
Not all insurance providers include group therapy in their coverage, but many do. Check with your insurance company to learn more about your plan. They can confirm whether group therapy is included in your plan and inform you about any potential limitations or requirements that might apply. Understanding these details in advance will help you navigate your treatment options more effectively.
Can I use Insurance for Support Groups?
While online support groups offer emotional and social support, they’re generally not covered by insurance. Check with your insurance company to learn more.
How Long Should I Be in Group Therapy?
Everyone’s experience in group therapy will be different. How long you stay in group therapy will depend on your circumstances and personal goals.
Should I Go to Group Therapy or Individual Therapy?
In many cases, you don’t have to choose between individual therapy or group therapy. You can participate in both if you prefer to combine one-on-one time with a therapist and group work. However, if you have to choose between individual and group therapy, consider important factors like your personal needs and goals and your comfort level in both settings.
What Are the Benefits of Online Group Therapy & Support Groups?
Benefits of online group therapy and support groups include convenience and accessibility. Online groups can be convenient because you can attend the sessions from anywhere with an internet connection. This can be especially helpful if you have a busy schedule or live in a rural area. In addition, many platforms also offer chat rooms and message boards, so members have access to 24/7 peer support.
Can I Remain Anonymous in Group Therapy?
Anonymity in group therapy depends on the service you choose. Some apps, like Circles, allow you to use nicknames, and other platforms request that all members turn their cameras on in meetings and use their real names.
How Do I Choose the Best Online Group Therapy or Support Group?
Choosing the best group therapy online or support group depends on various factors.
Things to consider before starting a program include:
- Personal Preferences: Consider what type of group setting you feel most comfortable with. Do you prefer audio-only sessions, video meetings with capped attendance, or chat-based communities? Perhaps most importantly, do you want a therapist- or peer-led experience?
- Goals: Determine initial mental health goals. What do you hope to achieve? Are you looking for support for a specific condition or challenge? Or are you seeking general mental wellness and coping strategies?
- Budget: Consider your budget. All platforms are priced differently, and while some accept insurance, others do not. Make sure the cost aligns with your financial situation.
- Schedule: Look for groups that meet at times that fit your daily schedule, routine, and commitments, ensuring you can participate on a consistent basis. This ensures you actually reap the benefits of group therapy!
Choosing Therapy strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.
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Department of Health and Human Services. (2021, July 2). Group Teletherapy. Retrieved from https://telehealth.hhs.gov/providers/telehealth-for-behavioral-health/group-teletherapy/
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American Psychological Association. (2019, October 31). Psychotherapy: Understanding Group Therapy. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/group-therapy
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National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2019, October 1). Support Groups. Retrieved from https://archives.drugabuse.gov/publications/step-by-step-guides-to-finding-treatment-drug-use-disorders/if-you-have-problem-drugs-adults/support-groups
We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.
Author: Emily Laubham, B.A. (New Author)
Medical Reviewer: Kristen Fuller, MD (New Medical Reviewer)
Primary Changes: Added six new platforms (Brave Health, Catalyss, NOCD, CCI, ANAD, and 7 Cups) and removed two platforms (Pace and Sesh). Fact-checked and edited entire article for improved readability and clarity. Added two new FAQs; removed two FAQs. New content written by Emily Laubham, B.A. and medically reviewed by Kristen Fuller, M.D.
Author: Randi Sprintis, MS (New author)
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Complete revamp of overall style; updated logos for all companies.
Author: Randi Sprintis, MS (New author)
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD (No change)
Primary Changes: Updated the list with newer and more advanced online group therapy services. Added more details on Pros and Cons lists, Costs, and Key Features.
Author: Eric Patterson, LPC
Medical Reviewer: Benjamin Troy, MD
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