Last updated: March 2026
How Much Does Group Therapy Cost?
Cost Breakdown by Type
| Type / Procedure | Without Insurance | With Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| General Process Group (90 min) | $35 – $80 | $10 – $30 |
| Specialized Group (CBT, DBT skills) | $50 – $100 | $15 – $40 |
| Support Group (peer-led, free) | $0 – $0 | $0 – $0 |
CPT/ADA Code: 90853
What Affects the Cost
- Provider credentials and experience
- In-person vs. telehealth sessions
- Session length (30, 45, or 60 minutes)
- In-network vs. out-of-network
- Geographic location (major cities cost more)
- Type of therapy or treatment approach
Insurance Coverage
Typical coverage: Group therapy is generally covered by health insurance at a lower copay than individual therapy. Session sizes typically range from 5 to 15 members.
Under the ACA and Mental Health Parity Act, insurance must cover mental health treatment at the same level as physical health. In-network copays are $20-$75 per session. Out-of-network providers may be reimbursed at 50-70%. Many plans now cover telehealth therapy at $0 copay.
How to Save Money
- Online therapy platforms (BetterHelp, Talkspace) cost $60-$100/session
- Open Path Collective: $30-$80/session ($65 lifetime membership)
- Sliding-scale therapists adjust fees based on income
- University training clinics offer $10-$30/session
- Community mental health centers provide low-cost services
- Ask about out-of-network reimbursement from your insurance
Related Procedures & Costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Research shows group therapy is equally effective as individual therapy for many conditions including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse, with the added benefit of peer support.
Group therapy costs $35 to $100 per session without insurance, significantly less than individual therapy at $100 to $250 per session.
Yes, most insurance plans cover group therapy with a copay that is often lower than individual therapy copays.