How do I sign up for group therapy?

Group therapy in Calgary is an effective and affordable method of psychological support that combines professional help with mutual support from participants. Studies show that clients who combine individual counseling with group therapy achieve better and longer-lasting results.

Benefits of group therapy

  • Support from like-minded people in a safe environment
  • Practical application of skills learned in individual therapy
  • Diverse perspectives and ideas from other participants
  • Reduced feelings of isolation and loneliness
  • Development of social skills and self-confidence

Major providers of group therapy in Calgary

1. Calgary Counselling Centre

  • Prerequisite: participation only after individual counseling
  • Available programs:
  • Overcoming Life Challenges (14 weeks, 2 hours/week)
  • Improving Self-Esteem (12 weeks)
  • Responsible Choices for Men (14 weeks)
  • Responsible Choices for Women (14 weeks)
  • Groups for Children of Divorced Parents (10 weeks)
  • Program for Teens (12 weeks)
  • Registration process:
  1. Fill out the online form: https://onlineintake.calgarycounselling.com/Home/Welcome?brand=CCC
  2. Or call: 833-827-4229 (Mon–Fri, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.)
  3. Complete an individual consultation
  4. Receive a referral to a group program
  • Cost: sliding scale based on income

2. Alberta Health Services (AHS) – Community Addiction and Mental Health Clinics

  • Cost: free (Alberta Health Care)
  • Application process:
  1. Self-referral through Access Mental Health: 403-943-1500
  2. Or referral from a doctor or specialist
  3. Wait times are provided at the time of appointment
  • Eligibility: Adults 18+ with moderate to severe mental health issues

3. Centre for Newcomers – Therapy & Support Centre

  • Specialization: immigrants, couples, families, groups
  • Services: psychotherapy, counseling, psychoeducational seminars
  • Application process:
  • Complete the referral form online or at [email protected]
  • Funding: primarily through Alberta Health Services

4. Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association (CIWA)

  • Offers: culturally sensitive support groups for immigrants
  • Languages: over 135
  • Contact: 403-263-4414

Private providers of group therapy

  • Supporting Wellness — Social skills groups (10 months, $100 per session)
  • Your Counselling — Groups for anxiety, depression, grief, relationships
  • Calgary Institute of Counselling — $110 per group therapy session

Specialized groups

For seniors (70+)

  • South Calgary Health Centre: therapy for anxiety, depression, SUILL for addictions
  • Eligibility: 70+ years old, community resident

Addiction support

  • Calgary Dream Centre: 403-243-5598
  • RAAM Clinic: 403-297-3071; 707 10 Avenue SW

Registration process — step-by-step guide

  1. Identify needs: type of problem, budget, language, location
  2. Select a provider:
  • Free: AHS, Centre for Newcomers, CIWA
  • Sliding scale: Calgary Counselling Centre, YW Calgary
  • Private: Supporting Wellness, Your Counselling, Calgary Institute
  1. Initial contact:
  • AHS: 403-943-1500 or online form
  • CCC: onlineintake.calgarycounselling.com or 833-827-4229
  • Private: e.g., clinic phone number
  1. Initial assessment: individual consultation, eligibility determination
  2. Registration and waiting period: varies (2 days–upon notification)

Financial aspects

  • Recommended rates (2025):
  • Group therapy: $110/person
  • Individual: $235/session
  • Financing options:
  • Free: AHS, Centre for Newcomers, CIWA
  • Sliding scale: CCC, YW Calgary
  • Insurance: check coverage with your provider

Practical tips

  • Prepare: contact information, income information, insurance, description of issues
  • Expectations: forms, intake, eligibility, appointment
  • Ask the provider: duration, group size, facilitator qualifications, confidentiality, missed appointment policy

Special resources for immigrants

  • Language support: CIWA (> 135 languages), Centre for Newcomers, AHS interpreters
  • Cultural sensitivity: CIWA, Centre for Newcomers, Ukrainian Canadian Congress Calgary

Online and telehealth options

  • Virtual group sessions
  • Online registration
  • Telephone support
  • Rapid Access Counselling (Kindred):
  • www.CommunityConnectYYC.ca/kindred
  • 403-233-2360
  • Free for families and children under 18

Conclusions

Registration for group therapy in Calgary includes:

  1. Needs assessment
  2. Provider selection
  3. Initial individual assessment
  4. Group enrollment

The city offers a wide range of free, sliding scale, and private options. Preliminary individual counseling ensures the best match of group therapy to individual needs.