Finding & Evaluating Online Group Therapy & Figuring out What Group is Right for Me

Recently, we’ve been talking about the benefits of group therapy. Last month, we outlined the benefits of group therapy in this blog.

In this article, you can explore if group therapy would be helpful for you.

But what if you’re looking for online therapy? Do online group therapy options exist? And if so, how do you go about determining which ones are right for you?

A while back, we explored the benefits of virtual therapy. If you missed that blog, you can check it out here.

This blog explores the many reasons an individual might benefit or even prefer online therapy over in person therapy. The same is true for group therapy. Online therapy removes the location restraints that many people encounter when searching for the right fit.

Benefits of Online Group Therapy

This can be even more beneficial when searching for a therapy group that meets your mental health needs. When a person is not limited to the groups offered in their immediate area, it can broaden their options, giving them a better chance at finding the group that best fits their specific goals for support.

So how do you know what online support groups are right for you? Healthline.com has compiled and rated several online platforms that are worth checking out. You can review them here.

Requirements of Online Therapy

So how do you know if online group therapy isn’t a good option for you? Typically, participants in group therapy need the following things to be successful:

• A strong WiFi or internet connection
• A smart phone, tablet, or computer with video and microphone capabilities
• A private, quiet place to participate in the sessions
• The ability to focus when interacting through a screen, as opposed to face to face in an office setting
• The desire to connect with others virtually, and being willing to share your journey with them

If you either don’t have access to, or they simply don’t appeal to you, you might find that seeking in-person individual therapy or group therapy would be more helpful for you. It’s also important to know that you can try out group therapy options to determine if it’s something you’re comfortable with. Most clinicians leading therapy groups are open to meeting with their clients individually if a group turns out not to be the best fit for you.

Types of Online Group Therapy

Online group therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Different groups are designed to meet individuals where they are in their mental health journey, offering targeted support, skill-building, and connection. Below are some of the most common types of online therapy groups available, each tailored to address specific concerns and goals.

Support Groups

Support groups provide a safe, welcoming environment where individuals can share experiences, challenges, and successes with others who understand what they’re going through. These groups are often less structured and focus on connection, emotional validation, and reducing feelings of isolation. They can be especially helpful for individuals navigating life transitions, stress, or ongoing mental health concerns.

Addiction Recovery Groups

Addiction recovery groups offer structured support for individuals working toward sobriety or managing addictive behaviors. These groups often incorporate accountability, relapse prevention strategies, and peer encouragement. Being part of a group allows members to learn from others’ experiences while building a strong support system that reinforces long-term recovery.

Grief Support Groups

Grief can feel incredibly isolating, but connecting with others who are experiencing similar loss can be deeply healing. Grief support groups provide a compassionate space to process emotions, share memories, and navigate the complex stages of grief. These groups help normalize feelings and provide tools for coping with loss over time.

Men’s Support Groups

Men’s groups create a space where individuals can openly discuss challenges that may be difficult to address elsewhere, such as emotional expression, relationships, stress, or societal expectations. These groups encourage vulnerability, connection, and personal growth in an environment designed specifically for men’s experiences.

Women’s Support Groups

Women’s groups offer a supportive setting to explore topics such as relationships, life transitions, self-esteem, career stress, and mental health. These groups foster empowerment, mutual understanding, and connection among individuals who may share similar life experiences and challenges.

Teen Therapy Groups

Teen groups provide a structured and supportive environment where adolescents can connect with peers facing similar challenges. These groups often focus on topics like social anxiety, self-esteem, academic stress, and emotional regulation. Participating in a teen group can help young people feel less alone while building communication and coping skills.

DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) Skills Groups

DBT skills groups are highly structured and focus on teaching practical tools for managing intense emotions, improving relationships, and reducing harmful behaviors. Participants learn skills in areas such as mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. These groups are especially helpful for individuals who experience overwhelming emotions or difficulty managing stress.

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) Skills Groups

CBT groups focus on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns that impact emotions and behaviors. Participants learn how to reframe negative thinking, develop healthier coping strategies, and build problem-solving skills. These groups are goal-oriented and provide practical techniques that can be applied in daily life.

Anger Management Groups

Anger management groups help individuals better understand their emotional triggers and develop healthier ways to respond. Participants learn techniques for regulating emotions, improving communication, and reducing impulsive reactions. These groups are beneficial for anyone who feels their anger is impacting relationships, work, or overall well-being.

FAQs About Online Group Therapy

What areas do you serve with online group therapy?

We welcome patients from Florida and all PSYPACT participating states.

Is online group therapy as effective as in-person therapy?

For many individuals, online group therapy can be just as effective as in-person sessions. It offers the same therapeutic support, structure, and opportunities for connection while adding the convenience of participating from home.

How many people are typically in an online therapy group?

Group sizes can vary, but most therapy groups include anywhere from 5 to 12 participants. This size allows for meaningful interaction while still giving everyone the opportunity to share.

Do I have to speak during every session?

Participation is encouraged, but it’s okay to take time to get comfortable. Many people begin by listening and gradually become more involved as they feel safer within the group.

Is online group therapy confidential?

Yes, confidentiality is a key part of group therapy. Therapists establish clear guidelines to protect privacy, and participants are expected to respect each other’s confidentiality as well.

What if I feel nervous about joining a group?

Feeling nervous is completely normal. Many people share this concern before starting. Over time, most participants find that group therapy becomes a supportive and reassuring space where they feel understood and accepted.

Can I combine group therapy with individual therapy?

Absolutely. Many individuals benefit from participating in both. Group therapy provides peer support and shared experiences, while individual therapy allows for more personalized, one-on-one attention.

How do I know which group is right for me?

The best way to determine the right fit is to speak with a clinician or intake coordinator. They can help assess your needs, goals, and preferences to recommend the most appropriate group for you.

What happens if a group doesn’t feel like the right fit?

It’s okay if your first group isn’t the perfect match. You can explore other options or transition to individual therapy. Finding the right therapeutic environment is an important part of the process.

Reach Out to Learn More

Don’t hesitate to reach out to the intake coordinator at a practice to ask questions, or even schedule a brief consult call with the clinician to determine what is the best choice for you! In addition to online therapy, Wellness Psychological Services has offices in Tampa and St. Petersburg, FL, for in-person therapy.