Group Therapy
Group Therapy
Group therapy involves a group of people meeting regularly with our treatment specialists to discuss their thoughts, feelings, and experiences related to a specific reason (challenges such as anxiety or depression or substance use). It provides a safe and supportive environment to help people learn from others and recognize they are not alone in their struggles, creates opportunities to practice new skills and coping methods, and helps build relationships and fosters connection.
How group therapy works at Rosecrance
Group therapy sessions are facilitated by licensed therapists who guide discussion, teach evidence-based skills, and create a safe space for clients to learn from one another. Groups typically include 6–10 participants and are tailored to each program’s clinical goals.
Depending on a client’s needs, group therapy may be part of outpatient treatment, intensive outpatient programming (IOP), or specialized services for mood, anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, and sports/performance concerns.
Types of Therapy Offered in Group Settings
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Groups
Clients learn core DBT skills — mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness — in a structured, supportive group environment.
Process & Support Groups
These groups focus on connection, shared experiences, and guided discussion to help clients gain insight, reduce isolation, and strengthen coping strategies.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Groups
Therapists help clients identify unhelpful thought patterns, practice healthier behaviors, and build tools they can use every day.
Skills Groups
Topics may include anxiety management, emotional resilience, body image, nutrition education (for ED programs), relapse prevention, and stress management.
Specialized Groups for Athletes & Performers
Led by clinicians trained in sport and performance psychology, these groups help
individuals manage pressure, enhance focus, and build mental resilience.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) Groups
Group therapy is the foundation of Rosecrance’s Intensive Outpatient Programs for
mental health and eating disorders. IOP groups support clients whose symptoms significantly affect daily life but do not require inpatient care. Sessions meet several times per week and may include:
- DBT-informed groups
- Nutrition or body-image groups (ED programs)
- Skills practice and coaching
- Process groups
- Goal-setting and accountability
IOP group work helps clients stabilize symptoms, regain daily functioning, and build momentum toward long-term recovery.
Benefits of Peer Support & Group Therapy
Participating in group therapy offers benefits that individual therapy alone cannot always provide:
- Shared understanding: Clients connect with others who face similar challenges.
- Reduced isolation: Hearing “me too” moments can be deeply validating.
- Skill building: Practicing new tools with others helps reinforce long-term change.
- Perspective: Feedback from peers often sparks new insights and growth.
- Motivation: Seeing others progress strengthens confidence and hope.
Locations Offering Group Therapy
Group therapy is available across many Rosecrance locations, including:
- Chicago (Magnificent Mile) – Outpatient therapy, eating disorder groups, mood & anxiety programs, and sports/performance services.
- Rockford & Central Illinois – Mental health and co-occurring groups across multiple outpatient sites.
- Iowa, Wisconsin & Additional Regional Clinics – Outpatient and IOP group services vary by location.
Our team will help match each client with the right site and program based on their needs.
See Rosecrance locations near you.
Why are we asking for this additional information?
With your current insurance information and location, we can better match you to programs and services that best fit your specific situation.