Types

• Cognitive behavioral groups, which center on identifying and changing inaccurate or distorted thinking patterns, emotional responses, and behaviors
• Interpersonal groups, which focus on interpersonal relationships and social interactions, including how much support you have from others and the impact these relationships have on mental health
• Psychoeducational groups, which focus on educating clients about their disorders and ways of coping; often based on the principles of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT)
• Skills development groups, which focus on improving social skills in people with mental disorders or developmental disabilities
• Support groups, which provide a wide range of benefits for people with a variety of mental health conditions as well as their loved ones

Groups can be as small as three or four, but group therapy sessions often involve around eight to 12 people (although it is possible to have more participants). The group typically meets once or twice each week, or more, for an hour or two.

Group therapy meetings may either be open or closed. New participants are welcome to join open sessions at any time. Only a core group of members are invited to participate in closed sessions.