Group psychotherapy is an effective form of therapy in which a small number of people meet under the guidance of a professionally trained therapist to help themselves and one another. Group therapy creates a safe, supportive, and cohesive space to address personal, relationship and societal issues. 

Who can benefit?

Anyone can benefit, including those struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, illness, aging, trauma, grief, or life transitions.

How does it work?

  • Sessions are 90 minutes, one time per week.

  • Group members share challenges, learn from each other, and gain practical skills

  • Members work to improve interpersonal relationships and learn to better manage their individual concerns.

Why is group therapy so powerful and effective?

  • Group helps reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness as members realize they’re not alone.

  • As humans, we develop in groups (families, classrooms, churches, companies, etc.) and thus a group environment offers an ideal space to heal, grow, and learn.

  • Members benefit from hearing diverse perspectives as well as from helping one another.

  • The group helps members to safely identify and change unhelpful interpersonal patterns.

  • Group offers a safe space to practice new ways of relating.

  • Group therapy is much more affordable than individual therapy, making it accessible to more people.

Common concerns:

  • “Why would I share with strangers?”  

    It’s not unusual to feel uneasy about sharing when first joining a group, but soon you begin to develop feelings of safety and trust. You control how much you share and strangers often offer fresh, unbiased insights.

  • “Will there be enough time for me?” 

    The therapist’s role is to ensure time is shared fairly, but members commonly report benefitting from listening as well as talking.

  • “Do I still need individual therapy?” 

    It depends. Your therapist or I can help guide you to know what’s best depending on your needs.

  • “How is group therapy different from a support group?” 

    Led by a therapist, group therapy focuses on change, growth and interpersonal relationships, not just coping and support.

  • “Will other members have similar issues?” 

    Not necessarily. The therapist ensures that the members are a good fit, however having a diversity of issues can enhance learning.

  • “What if I don’t like someone in the group?”

    Discomfort can be a wonderful chance to explore patterns and triggers—with support from the therapist and the other members.

How long do I have to commit to being in the group?

The group is open-ended; six months minimum is recommended but commitment is month to month.  Many people benefit from staying in a group long term and leave once they have achieved their goals.

How much does it cost?

$60 per 90-minute session (maximum 8 participants). Payment is monthly.

How do I know you’re qualified to be a Group Therapist?

The International Board for Certification of Group Psychotherapists certifies group therapists by the designation “CGP,” which means the therapist has received specialized training in group therapy. I obtained my CGP designation in February 2025 and have more than four years of experience leading groups.

What groups do you currently offer?

September - November 2025: 8-week in person workshop in Spanish on “Coping with emotions”. For more information, click here.

January 2026: I will start a virtual group for women in perimenopause/menopause. There will be one group in English and one in Spanish. Email me at ana@anaamaretherapy.com if you’re interested in signing up.

Please contact me for the most up to date group openings!

Sources:

American Group Psychotherapy Association’s website

Houston Group Psychotherapy Society website

Group Therapy