Group therapy Colorado creates a supportive space where people come together to share experiences, learn from one another, and build healthier ways of coping. Guided by a trained therapist, group sessions encourage connection, reduce feelings of isolation, and provide practical tools for lasting growth.
What is group therapy?
Group therapy is a type of psychological treatment where one or more therapists serves a whole group of people through structured discussions, exercises, and activities. Unlike individual therapy, group therapy involves interaction with other group members who may be facing similar challenges in their own lives.
A group therapist or group leader sets the tone, establishes group norms, and helps make sure that every member of the small group feels supported and respected. These sessions usually last one to two hours and can be held in mental health clinics, treatment centers, or even through online group therapy options.
Individual therapy vs therapy group?
Both individual psychotherapy and group therapy are valuable, but they also offer quite different experiences. Individual therapy provides one-on-one attention from an individual therapist, and focuses more on personal feelings, specific challenges, and customized coping strategies. This kind of attention can be extremely beneficial, especially early in recovery, but may lack real-world or peer advice.
On the other hand, group therapy allows you to learn from the experiences of other members of the group. You not only receive valuable feedback from your therapist, but also from other members who may be going through similar struggles. This dynamic creates a sense of shared understanding and helps group members navigate life’s challenges together.
The benefits of group therapy
The benefits of group sessions go far beyond what happens in each session. Many participants describe it as a powerful, life-changing process. Some of the benefits reported from this type of therapy include (but are not limited to):
Interpersonal learning
Group therapy creates space to see yourself through the eyes of other group members. By hearing how your thoughts and actions affect relationships, you gain new self-understanding, improve social skills, and learn healthier ways to connect.
Social skills
In this group setting, you can practice communication, boundary setting, and socializing techniques. These skills build confidence and translate into stronger, more fulfilling interactions in daily life.
Group cohesion
Over time, groups often develop a deep sense of belonging. This group cohesion provides encouragement, accountability, and the reassurance that you are supported by people who understand.
Therapeutic factors
The group process itself offers healing. By sharing openly and listening to others, members gain hope, self-understanding, and practical coping strategies that help with life’s challenges.
Existential factors
Perhaps one of the most meaningful benefits is realizing you are not alone. Group therapy reminds you that others share similar struggles, and that sense of connection can bring relief, perspective, and a renewed sense of purpose.

You can overcome addiction. Reach out to discover:
What group psychotherapy helps with
Group psychotherapy is a flexible treatment approach that addresses many different mental health conditions and life challenges. By participating in a group format, members gain insights, practice coping strategies, and receive encouragement from people who truly understand their struggles.
Anxiety disorders and social anxiety
For those living with anxiety, the group setting can feel intimidating at first, but it often becomes a safe and protected environment to face fears and practice new skills. Group members learn techniques to reduce worry and navigate social situations with more confidence.
Depression and bipolar disorder
Group therapy helps members of the group with depression and bipolar disorder break through isolation. Sharing experiences with others who understand brings hope, while structured group interventions provide strategies for managing mood swings and building stability.
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
In a supportive group experience and with an experienced group leader, people with PTSD can process trauma safely and learn grounding techniques. Being surrounded by others who have also faced painful experiences reduces feelings of isolation and fosters healing.
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Group psychotherapy offers space to challenge unhelpful patterns and practice exposure techniques under the guidance of a group therapist. Hearing how others manage OCD symptoms can inspire new coping strategies and strengthen progress.
Borderline personality disorder
For individuals with borderline personality disorder, the group format provides opportunities to practice healthier ways of relating to others. Group cohesion and feedback from members help build understanding and improve interpersonal relationships.
Eating disorders
Group experiences give people with eating disorders an environment to talk openly about struggles with food, body image, and emotional triggers. Supportive feedback from the group leader and shared experiences can reduce shame and encourage healthier coping skills.
Substance use and addiction recovery
Group therapy is a cornerstone of addiction treatment for alcohol addiction, prescription medication addiction, heroin addiction, and more. By connecting with others in recovery, group members navigate cravings, learn relapse-prevention strategies, and celebrate victories together. The sense of accountability within the group process strengthens long-term sobriety.
Chronic pain or illness
Living with chronic issues or a serious medical illness can be overwhelming and isolating. Group psychotherapy, often alongside other treatments like occupational therapy, offers both emotional support and practical tools for coping, helping members manage symptoms while finding comfort in shared experiences.
WE ARE AVAILABLE 24/7
Request a call for answers and help.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction or mental health problems, request a call to speak with a knowledgeable treatment specialist. Our team is here to help you understand your options for care. There is no cost or obligation to enter treatment by requesting a call.
"*" indicates required fields
Types of group therapy
Group therapy is not one-size-fits-all. There are several formats that may be offered:
- Closed groups. Membership is fixed, creating consistency and deeper trust between members.
- Open groups. New members may join at different times, bringing fresh perspectives to the group.
- Psychoeducational groups. Focused on teaching specific skills and coping strategies for mental health conditions, substance use, or life stressors.
- Groups for specific conditions. Such as groups for anxiety disorders, eating and feeding disorders, or substance abuse and recovery.
Each type of group provides unique opportunities for growth for all members of the group, whether through skill-building, emotional support, or deeper group process experiences.
Free Insurance Check
Our rehab center accepts most insurance plans.
Check if your insurance will cover the cost of treatment by filling out our confidential insurance form. We accept most insurance plans.

Differences between group therapy and support groups
It’s common to confuse group therapy with support groups, but they are not the same. Group therapy sessions are led by licensed mental health professionals who apply structured group interventions based on clinical psychology and therapeutic models. They involve treatment goals, therapeutic alliance, and evidence-based practices.
Support groups, on the other hand, are often peer-led by a support leader or other group members and focus on shared experiences rather than professional guidance. While both offer a supportive environment, these groups emphasize mutual encouragement and community connection, while group therapy involves a therapist who serves as a guide and facilitator.
Different types of support groups available
In addition to groups, many people find value in attending groups at community centers or online. Common types include:
- 12-Step programs for substance addiction, such as AA or NA.
- Peer-led groups for mental health conditions.
- Condition-specific support, often in a therapy setting, for people dealing with medical issues, chronic pain, or caregiving challenges.
These groups can complement formal therapy by giving people additional outlets for connection and encouragement.
Rehab might feel like a big step, but remember why you're here—you’re looking for a way forward. We can help.
Group therapy and support group FAQs
Do psychoeducational groups really benefit those in addiction?
Yes. Psychoeducational groups are especially valuable in addiction recovery because they provide both education and practical coping strategies. Group members learn about the nature of substance use, the role of triggers, and healthy ways to respond, all while gaining encouragement from other members who understand their journey. They are especially helpful when paired with additional therapies, including cognitive behaviour therapy, solution-focused therapy, and more.
Is group therapy covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans do cover group therapy when it’s part of a structured treatment program. At Red Ribbon Recovery, our admissions team can help you verify coverage and explain how group treatment fits into your plan. Call us at (888) 899-3880 to confirm your benefits.
What kind of social skills can group therapy help improve?
Group therapy helps members strengthen communication, practice assertiveness, and learn new ways of relating to others. By receiving valuable feedback in a safe environment, you gain confidence that carries into everyday life and interpersonal relationships.
Can support groups really help improve mental health in a safe environment?
Yes. While not a replacement for professional group psychotherapy, support groups can reduce feelings of isolation, provide emotional support, and encourage healthier coping. They are often a helpful complement to therapy, especially for people facing ongoing life stressors or recovery challenges.
Can group therapy help with social anxiety?
Absolutely. A group provides a structured environment where members can practice socializing techniques, challenge fears, and gain confidence in interacting with others. With guidance from a skilled therapist, many people find their social anxiety improves over time.
Start your journey with Red Ribbon Recovery in Colorado
You don’t have to carry the weight of recovery or mental health challenges on your own. Group therapy and support groups provide encouragement, accountability, and a safe space to share your story while learning from others. At Red Ribbon Recovery, our compassionate mental health professionals are here to guide each group member through the process with care and understanding.
If you’re ready to take the next step, contact us today. Call (888) 899-3880 to verify your insurance and connect with mental healthcare professionals who can help you find the right treatment option. You can also fill out our secure contact form, and we’ll be here to walk you through the process.
Your path to healing, connection, and long-term well-being can begin today—and we’d be honored to walk beside you.
We are here to help you or a loved one find addiction treatment near you.
Admitting you have a substance abuse problem and asking for help is not always easy. If you or a loved one are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction or another substance use disorder, help is available. Call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (303) 219-3980 to learn about resources in your area or reach out to our team for personalized treatment.
Treatment Center Reviews
Bridget LaRocco
I have been to this facility twice now, for Laser Hair removal and Botox. I saw Kim 2 times now for laser and she has been great, she made me feel really comfortable and…
Bridget LaRocco
I have been to this facility twice now, for Laser Hair removal and Botox. I saw Kim 2 times now for laser and she has been great, she made me feel really comfortable and…
Bridget LaRocco
I have been to this facility twice now, for Laser Hair removal and Botox. I saw Kim 2 times now for laser and she has been great, she made me feel really comfortable and…
Sources
- Malhotra, A., Mars, J. A., & Baker, J. (2024, October 29). Group therapy. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549812/
- Anxiety disorders. (n.d.). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders
- How to choose the right support group. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/support-groups/art-20044655
- Have a problem with alcohol? There is a solution. | Alcoholics Anonymous. (n.d.-a). https://www.aa.org/
- Naws. (2025b, July 17). Narcotics Anonymous. Narcotics Anonymous World Services. https://na.org/
About the content

Written by: Carli Simmonds. Carli Simmonds holds a Master of Arts in Community Health Psychology from Northeastern University. From a young age, she witnessed the challenges her community faced with substance abuse, addiction, and mental health challenges, inspiring her dedication to the field.

Medical reviewed by: Jodi Tarantino, LICSW. Jodi Tarantino is an experienced, licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Program Director with over 20 years of experience in Behavioral Healthcare. Also reviewed by the RRR Editorial team.
Red Ribbon Recovery is committed to delivering transparent, up-to-date, and medically accurate information. All content is carefully written and reviewed by experienced professionals to ensure clarity and reliability. During the editorial and medical review process, our team fact-checks information using reputable sources. Our goal is to create content that is informative, easy to understand and helpful to our visitors.

