How much does group therapy cost?
How much does group therapy cost?
$40 – $100 per session
$250 – $700 per 8-week program
$2,080 – $5,200 per year (weekly sessions)
Average group therapy cost
Group therapy typically costs $40 to $100 per session, making it one of the most affordable forms of mental health treatment available. Compared to individual therapy sessions that average $100 to $250 per hour, group therapy can save participants 50% to 75% on their mental health care. The exact price depends on factors like location, group size, the therapist's credentials, and whether the group focuses on a specialized topic.
| Group therapy type | Average cost per session |
|---|---|
| General process group | $40 – $80 |
| Specialized topic group (e.g., grief, anxiety, trauma) | $50 – $100 |
| Skills-based group (e.g., DBT, CBT) | $50 – $100 |
| Support group (peer-led) | $0 – $20 |
| Intensive outpatient program (IOP) group | $100 – $250 |
| Online group therapy | $35 – $80 |
Most group therapy sessions last between 60 and 90 minutes and include anywhere from 5 to 15 participants. Because the therapist's time and expertise are shared among multiple people, the per-person cost drops significantly. For many people dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, or relationship challenges, group therapy offers a cost-effective path to meaningful support and healing.
How group therapy sessions are priced
Group therapy pricing structures vary depending on the provider, the format, and whether sessions are offered as part of a package. Understanding how therapists price their groups can help you budget effectively and find the best value.
| Pricing structure | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Per-session (drop-in) | $40 – $100 |
| Weekly package (4 sessions) | $140 – $350 |
| 8-week structured program | $250 – $700 |
| 12-week structured program | $350 – $1,000 |
| Monthly unlimited (rare) | $200 – $500 |
Per-session pricing
Many open or ongoing groups charge on a per-session basis. This is common for process groups and support groups where members may join or leave at any time. Per-session rates typically fall between $40 and $100, with no long-term commitment required.
Package and program pricing
Structured groups that run for a set number of weeks often offer a bundled price. For example, an 8-week cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) group might cost $250 to $700 upfront. This structure is common for evidence-based programs like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills groups, anger management courses, and grief recovery workshops. Paying upfront per program often results in a lower per-session rate.
Sliding scale rates
Some therapists and community mental health centers offer sliding scale pricing for group therapy. This means the cost adjusts based on your income level. Sliding scale group sessions can be as low as $10 to $30 per session, making therapy accessible to people who might otherwise go without treatment.
Group therapy vs. individual therapy cost
Group therapy is substantially less expensive than individual therapy. On a per-session basis, group therapy costs roughly 50% to 75% less than one-on-one sessions. Over the course of months or years of treatment, this difference can amount to thousands of dollars in savings.
| Comparison | Group therapy | Individual therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per session | $40 – $100 | $100 – $250 |
| Session duration | 60 – 90 minutes | 45 – 60 minutes |
| Monthly cost (weekly sessions) | $160 – $400 | $400 – $1,000 |
| Annual cost (weekly sessions) | $2,080 – $5,200 | $5,200 – $13,000 |
| Therapist-to-client ratio | 1 therapist : 5–15 clients | 1 therapist : 1 client |
| Personalized attention | Shared | Dedicated |
Someone attending weekly individual therapy at $175 per session would spend roughly $9,100 per year. The same person attending weekly group therapy at $60 per session would pay approximately $3,120 per year, saving nearly $6,000 annually.
Many mental health professionals recommend combining both formats. You might attend individual therapy biweekly while participating in a weekly group session. This blended approach can provide both personalized attention and the peer support that comes from a group setting, often at a lower total cost than weekly individual sessions alone.
Factors that affect group therapy cost
Several variables determine what you'll pay for group therapy. Understanding these factors helps you anticipate expenses and find a group that fits your budget.
| Factor | Impact on cost |
|---|---|
| Geographic location | Urban areas and high cost-of-living states charge more |
| Therapist credentials | PhD/PsyD psychologists charge more than licensed counselors |
| Specialization | Niche or evidence-based groups cost more |
| Group size | Smaller groups tend to cost more per person |
| Session length | 90-minute sessions cost more than 60-minute sessions |
| Setting (online vs. in-person) | Online groups are typically cheaper |
| Provider type (private practice vs. clinic) | Community clinics often charge less |
Geographic location
Where you live plays a significant role in group therapy pricing. In major metropolitan areas like New York, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C., group sessions can cost $75 to $100 or more. In smaller cities and rural areas, the same type of group might cost $35 to $60. States with higher costs of living generally have higher therapy rates across the board.
| Region | Average group therapy cost per session |
|---|---|
| New York City | $70 – $120 |
| Los Angeles / San Francisco | $65 – $110 |
| Chicago / Dallas / Houston | $50 – $90 |
| Midwestern and Southern states | $35 – $70 |
| Rural areas | $30 – $60 |
Therapist credentials and experience
The facilitator's qualifications directly impact cost. A group led by a licensed psychologist (PhD or PsyD) with 20 years of experience will typically charge more than one led by a licensed professional counselor (LPC) or a supervised associate. Groups led by licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) and marriage and family therapists (LMFTs) generally fall in the mid-range.
Type and specialization of the group
General support groups tend to be the least expensive option. Specialized groups that address specific conditions or use structured evidence-based methods, such as DBT skills training, trauma processing, or eating disorder recovery, cost more because they require additional training and preparation from the facilitator.
Group size
Smaller groups with 4 to 6 members usually cost more per person because the therapist's fee is divided among fewer participants. Larger groups of 10 to 15 members allow for a lower per-person cost. However, smaller groups offer more individual attention and speaking time during each session.
Online vs. in-person
Online group therapy sessions tend to be 10% to 30% cheaper than in-person groups. Therapists who facilitate virtual groups have lower overhead costs since they don't need to rent a large therapy space. Online groups also eliminate transportation costs and travel time for participants.
Does insurance cover group therapy?
Yes, many health insurance plans cover group therapy. Since the Affordable Care Act (ACA) took effect, most insurance plans are required to include mental health services as an essential benefit. Group therapy qualifies as an outpatient mental health service and is covered by most major insurers, though the specifics vary by plan.
| Insurance scenario | Typical out-of-pocket cost per session |
|---|---|
| In-network with copay | $10 – $30 |
| In-network with coinsurance (after deductible) | $15 – $50 |
| Out-of-network (with out-of-network benefits) | $30 – $80 |
| No insurance / self-pay | $40 – $100 |
In-network coverage
If your group therapist is in-network with your insurance plan, you'll typically pay a copay of $10 to $30 per session. Some plans use coinsurance instead, meaning you pay a percentage (often 20% to 30%) of the allowed amount after meeting your deductible. Contact your insurance company and ask specifically about coverage for CPT code 90853, which is the standard billing code for group psychotherapy.
Out-of-network coverage
If the group facilitator is out-of-network, you may still receive partial reimbursement if your plan includes out-of-network mental health benefits. You would typically pay the full session fee upfront and then submit a superbill to your insurer for reimbursement. Reimbursement rates vary but often cover 50% to 80% of the allowed amount.
Medicare and Medicaid
Medicare Part B covers outpatient group therapy. After you meet the annual deductible, you pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. Medicaid also covers group therapy in most states, often with very low or no copays. Availability of group therapy through Medicaid depends on your state and the providers in your area.
Call the member services number on the back of your insurance card and ask: "Does my plan cover outpatient group psychotherapy (CPT code 90853)? What is my copay or coinsurance? Do I need a referral or prior authorization?" Getting these details upfront prevents surprise bills.
How to find affordable group therapy
If cost is a barrier, several options can make group therapy more accessible. Many communities offer free or low-cost group therapy programs, and online platforms have expanded access to affordable virtual groups across the country.
| Option | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Community mental health centers | $0 – $30 |
| University training clinics | $5 – $25 |
| Nonprofit organizations | $0 – $20 |
| Peer-led support groups (AA, NAMI, DBSA) | Free |
| Online group therapy platforms | $35 – $80 |
| Sliding scale private practice groups | $10 – $50 |
| Employee assistance programs (EAPs) | Free (limited sessions) |
Community mental health centers
Federally funded community mental health centers offer group therapy on a sliding scale based on income. Some centers provide group sessions for as little as $0 to $30 per session. To find a center near you, search the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) treatment locator at findtreatment.gov.
University training clinics
Graduate psychology and counseling programs often run training clinics where advanced students provide therapy under close supervision by licensed professionals. Group therapy at these clinics typically costs $5 to $25 per session. The quality of care is generally high because supervisors review every session.
Free peer-led support groups
Organizations like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), and GriefShare offer free peer-led support groups. While these are not facilitated by licensed therapists, they provide valuable community and shared experience. Many meet weekly both in person and online.
Employee assistance programs
Many employers offer EAPs that include free short-term counseling, which sometimes covers group therapy sessions. EAPs typically provide 3 to 8 free sessions. Check with your human resources department to see what your employer offers.
Online group therapy platforms
Several digital mental health platforms now offer virtual group therapy at reduced rates. These sessions are facilitated by licensed therapists and typically focus on specific topics like anxiety, depression, grief, or stress management. Online groups often cost $35 to $80 per session and offer the convenience of attending from home.
Why group therapy is worth the investment
Group therapy delivers clinical outcomes comparable to individual therapy for many conditions, according to research published in the American Psychological Association's journals. For participants, the combination of professional guidance and peer support creates a therapeutic environment that individual sessions alone cannot replicate.
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Cost savings | 50% – 75% less expensive than individual therapy |
| Peer support | Learn from others facing similar challenges |
| Social skills practice | Real-time practice in a safe environment |
| Reduced isolation | Helps normalize your experiences |
| Multiple perspectives | Feedback from both the therapist and group members |
| Accountability | Regular group meetings help maintain commitment |
Group therapy is particularly effective for conditions like social anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, grief, and trauma. Hearing others share similar struggles reduces feelings of isolation and shame. The group dynamic also provides opportunities to practice interpersonal skills, receive honest feedback, and build a sense of community.
From a financial standpoint, the lower cost makes it possible to sustain treatment over a longer period. Consistency is one of the most important factors in therapy outcomes, and a more affordable option helps people stay in treatment long enough to experience lasting change.
Frequently asked questions
How much does group therapy cost without insurance?
Without insurance, group therapy typically costs $40 to $100 per session. The price varies based on your location, the therapist's credentials, and the type of group. Sliding scale options and community mental health centers can bring the cost down to $10 to $30 per session for qualifying individuals.
Is group therapy cheaper than individual therapy?
Yes, group therapy is significantly cheaper. Individual therapy averages $100 to $250 per session, while group therapy averages $40 to $100. This represents savings of 50% to 75%. Group sessions also tend to be longer (60 to 90 minutes vs. 45 to 60 minutes), providing more total time in a therapeutic setting.
How many sessions of group therapy will I need?
The number of sessions depends on the group format and your personal goals. Structured programs like DBT skills groups typically run 8 to 16 weeks. Open-ended process groups can continue for months or even years. Many people attend group therapy for 12 to 24 sessions before evaluating their progress with their therapist.
Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy?
Research consistently shows that group therapy is as effective as individual therapy for many conditions, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders. Some people even prefer the group setting because it offers peer support, shared experiences, and the opportunity to learn from others' perspectives.
How do I find a group therapy session near me?
Start by asking your insurance company for a list of in-network providers who offer group therapy. You can also search Psychology Today's therapist directory, which allows you to filter by "group therapy." SAMHSA's treatment locator (findtreatment.gov) is another excellent resource, particularly for substance use and mental health groups. Your primary care doctor can also provide referrals.
What should I expect at my first group therapy session?
Your first session will typically involve introductions, a review of group rules (like confidentiality), and an overview of how the group operates. You won't be pressured to share more than you're comfortable with. Most facilitators create a welcoming environment where new members can observe before actively participating. Some groups require a brief individual intake session before joining.