Group Psychotherapy
Group psychotherapy offers the opportunity for you to process emotional or social challenges in a supportive environment with other clients who are experiencing similar challenges. All groups are led by experienced and licensed psychotherapists. Many of our groups focus on LGBTQ+ issues of identity and expression, while some groups focus on behavioral health issues like relationships, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), or understanding problematic behaviors and emotions.
Group therapy is available to both existing medical patients and non-patients.
Groups are offered weekly and either in-person at either sites or through Zoom telehealth:
- 1525 14th St, NW (1525)
- Max Robinson Center (MRC) – 1201 Sycamore St SE
- Zoom – telehealth
Current Therapy Groups
Gender Affirming Groups
These groups at Whitman-Walker Health are all about supporting authenticity, beginning with one’s gender. Whether you are finding language for your transgender experience, agender or non-binary identity, or are the parent of a young person with an expansive gender identity… one of these groups might be for you.
Coping Skills Groups
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and group therapy focused on cognitive behavioral changes provide effective tools for transforming thoughts and behaviors. CBT helps individuals identify and reframe negative thinking patterns, while DBT emphasizes emotional regulation, mindfulness, and distress tolerance. In a group setting, participants gain support, practice new skills, and reinforce positive behavior changes. Together, these approaches empower individuals to break unhealthy cycles, build resilience, and create lasting emotional well-being.
Expressive Healing Groups
Our expressive therapy groups offer a creative and healing space for all. Through words, art, music, movement, and writing, participants are encouraged to explore emotions, process experiences, and express themselves freely in a nonjudgmental environment. No prior artistic experience is needed—just an openness to healing through creativity.
Identity Affirming Groups
Honoring diverse voices and stories within the community and rooted in cultural awareness and inclusion, these groups provide a safe haven for self-discovery, empowerment, and connection. Led by affirming clinicians of color, they are for people who are BIPOC (Black, indigenous, and/or people of color).
Stress Reduction & Trauma Informed Groups
Life can be full of stressors and triggers. Our nervous systems can become overwhelmed and dysregulated by these experiences. These groups at Whitman-Walker Health support a better understanding of how our minds and bodies manage stress in a non-judgmental, non-shaming, and self-affirming way.
Disordered Eating Groups
Join our affirming and nonjudgmental disordered eating group therapy, designed specifically for LGBTQ+ individuals. In a safe, inclusive space, you’ll find support from peers who understand your unique experiences. Together, we explore healing relationships with food and body image without judgment or shame, fostering self-compassion and resilience. Everyone is welcome, wherever you are in your journey.
Groups For Life’s Big Challenges
These therapy groups provide a compassionate and supportive space to navigate life’s challenges, including grief, loss, HIV diagnosis, aging, and challenges with sex or intimacy. We honor each person’s unique journey, offering a safe environment for sharing experiences, processing emotions, and fostering healing. Guided by skilled therapists, these groups encourage open conversation around difficult topics, helping participants build resilience, find connections, and reclaim a sense of control over their lives. You don’t have to face these challenges alone—healing happens here, together.
Apoyo en Espanol
Nuestra terapia grupal está diseñada para ayudarles a comprender su sistema nervioso y sanar recuerdos de eventos traumáticos. En un espacio seguro e inclusivo, exploraremos cómo el trauma impacta el cuerpo y las emociones, brindando herramientas para regular las respuestas del sistema nervioso y promover el bienestar emocional. Juntos, trabajaremos en incrementar su resiliencia, ofreciendo apoyo mutuo y cultivando la autoaceptación en cada paso del camino.
Join a Group
There are two main ways to learn more about groups, find out about openings, and begin the screening process. Please note that for certain groups, the facilitator may ask you to complete an additional screening before joining the group:
- Current Health Center patients: Start by requesting a behavioral consult for a group from your medical provider. Let your provider know that you would like to speak with a Behavioral Health Specialist.
- Non-patients of the health center: Email Adam Chavis at achavis@whitman-walker.org for more information.
