Navigating adolescence is tough—especially when challenges like anxiety, depression, or substance use are added to the mix. For many families, finding the right mental health support feels overwhelming. That’s where group therapy for teens in Miami becomes a lifeline. Group therapy creates a safe, supportive space where teens can connect with peers, share experiences, and learn new coping skills.
At Improving Lives CMHC, we offer specialized teen mental health programs in Miami through Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and outpatient care. Whether in-person or through Florida telehealth, our bilingual therapists guide teens and families toward healing, resilience, and long-term recovery.
Why Group Therapy Matters for Teens
Adolescents thrive in connection. Peer relationships often feel more impactful than adult advice, making group therapy a uniquely powerful tool for healing.
Benefits of group therapy for teens include:
- Peer support: Teens realize they’re not alone in their struggles.
- Skill-building: Sessions focus on coping tools, stress management, and healthy communication.
- Safe expression: A confidential space to share without fear of judgment.
- Modeling recovery: Teens learn by observing peers who are further along in their journey.
For parents, group therapy also offers a sense of relief and peace of mind. It helps reduce stigma and assures them that their teen is receiving professional, structured support.
Group Therapy for Teens & Young Adults
At Improving Lives CMHC, group therapy is integrated into every level of care. Our Group Therapy for Teens & Young Adults program provides both structured therapy and flexible scheduling options, including after-school sessions.
Groups are led by licensed bilingual therapists trained in evidence-based practices such as:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – to reframe negative thinking patterns.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – to regulate emotions and manage crises.
- Family-focused sessions – to improve communication and rebuild trust.
The Role of Group Therapy in PHP

Sometimes, outpatient therapy isn’t enough. Teens in crisis may need the structure of a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP). Group therapy plays a central role in these programs, providing daily therapeutic sessions alongside academic support and family involvement.
In PHP, group therapy sessions help teens:
- Develop structure and routine during recovery.
- Stay connected to academics with tutoring support.
- Build resilience while addressing root causes of distress.
Learn more about the Role of Group Therapy in PHP at Improving Lives.
Group Therapy for Anxiety & Depression
Anxiety and depression are two of the most common struggles among teens in Miami-Dade. Left untreated, they can interfere with academics, friendships, and family relationships. Group therapy provides both education and peer validation, reducing isolation and building practical skills.
In our Group Therapy for Anxiety & Depression programs, teens learn:
- Grounding techniques to calm anxious thoughts.
- Healthy routines that support mood stability.
- How to identify triggers and develop coping strategies.
Group Therapy in IOP: Building Resilience After Crisis
For teens who don’t require full-day treatment but still need more than weekly therapy, our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a strong option. Group therapy is a cornerstone of IOP, offering 3–5 weekly sessions where teens practice recovery skills in real-time.
Our Intensive Outpatient Therapy for Teens & Young Adults emphasizes:
- Maintaining school and family routines.
- Strengthening decision-making skills.
- Relapse prevention for substance use recovery.
IOP is flexible, allowing teens to continue academics while receiving the care they need.
Why Choose Improving Lives for Teen Group Therapy in Miami?
Choosing the right program can feel daunting. Here’s why families in Miami-Dade and across Florida trust Improving Lives CMHC:
- Comprehensive care: Our programs, including PHP, IOP, outpatient, family therapy, and medication management, provide a comprehensive approach that instills confidence and trust in parents.
- Bilingual therapists: All providers speak English and Spanish.
- Accessibility: Transportation and meal/snack services available.
- Insurance acceptance: Medicaid, Medicare, and most commercial plans.
- Statewide telehealth: Teens can access group therapy from anywhere in Florida.
- Family involvement: Parents and guardians play a central role in recovery.
If your teen is struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges, group therapy may be the supportive environment they need to heal and grow.
Call (305) 230-8751 today or schedule an appointment through our Contact Page.
We offer in-person care in Miami-Dade County and telehealth services across Florida. Most major insurances—including Medicaid and Medicare—are accepted.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline right away.
Frequently Ask Questions
1. What is group therapy for teens like?
Sessions usually include 6–10 teens, led by a licensed therapist. Activities may include open discussion, skill-building exercises, role-playing, and creative outlets like art or journaling.
2. How does group therapy differ from individual therapy?
Individual therapy focuses on one-on-one support, while group therapy provides peer connection. Many teens benefit from a combination of both.
3. Can group therapy help with substance use?
Yes. Group therapy is a core component of substance use recovery, helping teens learn relapse prevention skills and build sober support networks.
4. How do parents know if group therapy is right for their teen?
If your teen is struggling with mood, relationships, or school performance, a professional evaluation can help determine if group therapy—or a higher level of care like PHP or IOP—is appropriate.
5. Is telehealth group therapy available in Florida?
Absolutely. Improving Lives CMHC offers statewide telehealth options, making therapy accessible for families outside Miami-Dade.
6. Does insurance cover group therapy?
Yes. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most commercial insurance plans. Coverage varies, so our team can verify benefits before starting.