Getty Images Writer: Hailey Evans In recent years, the stigma of seeking treatment for mental health issues through outpatient therapy has significantly declined. The most recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data from 2023 showed 13.4% of adults aged 18-34 had sought mental health counseling in the past 12 months, up from 12.6% in 2022. That one percentage point might look small, but it represents millions of American adults who are seeking treatment to improve their mental health. While many might be familiar with traditional one-on-one therapy, it’s not the only tool in the treatment toolbox. Group therapy is an effective option, and it’s often more accessible for those seeking help. What is group therapy? Group therapy, led by one or more therapists, brings together people struggling with similar challenges, addiction, anxiety, caregiving, grief, illness and more. Ann Flood, a licensed mental health counselor in Des Moines, recently started offering group sessions as a way to connect people. After the pandemic, she noticed that people felt more isolated, and she figured group work could bridge that gap. “I had several clients going through similar things, like women experiencing divorce,” she said. “A bunch of their exes just seemed to have these narcissistic traits.” At the time, Flood had just finished training to treat victims of narcissistic abuse and asked her clients if they’d be willing to participate in group work. They were open to it, she said, so “they don’t feel so alone.” How are support groups different? Group therapy is led by licensed therapists. Participants usually gather for a fixed time frame, like eight weeks or 10 sessions, and are expected to show up to each session. Support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous, are often led by peers with similar lived experiences. The sessions tend to be less structured than group therapy, and participants can rotate in or out as they prefer. Flood said group therapy can function as a support group, but support groups don’t count as therapeutic or medical treatment if they aren’t run by a professional. Do both types of groups cost money? Group therapy does cost money, but it can be significantly cheaper than one-on-one sessions, depending on the provider. Support groups are generally free and open to the public. Some insurance plans may also cover the cost of group therapy. Potential participants should check costs and insurance coverage before attending. How can these groups help? Group settings encourage social connections and can provide reassurance, new perspectives and coping strategies. Talking about shared challenges with peers can also increase empathy and reduce stress levels. “Groups help so much with social skills and social anxiety, so clients who struggle with those really benefit,” Flood said. “But I’m really transparent with people. I’m like, ‘This is going to be really difficult and uncomfortable for you at first.’ But it’s practice. So you’re not isolating anymore and you have to show up once a week.” She also said groups can build and strengthen communication skills, listening skills, self-esteem and accountability. How do people find a group? The Psychology Today online database is a good place to find therapy groups led by professionals. You can narrow your search by city, price and topic — such as ADHD, anxiety, trauma or PTSD support — to find the best fit for you. Many free support groups also gather across Des Moines. A post-partum group, for example, meets at the Des Moines Public Library, and Nourish Community Circle for those in recovery from eating disorders gathers at Inner Space on Keosauqua Way. Search online for more free local support groups through findhelp.org.