Why I Love OCD Group Therapy
I’ve had the privilege of working with people in both individual and group therapy for OCD. I truly cannot say enough about how much I love running groups and watching people connect, support one another, and grow together on their recovery journeys.
In my opinion, when people are considering options for OCD treatment, group therapy is often overlooked. Here are a few reasons why I think it deserves serious consideration:
Research Shows Group CBT for OCD Is Just as Effective as Individual Therapy
You might assume that you’ll get less out of a group because there is less individual attention. However, research consistently shows that group CBT for OCD is just as effective at reducing symptoms as individual therapy, and the benefits last just as long.
Less Shame, More Compassion
Group therapy can significantly reduce the shame that many people with OCD experience. When you hear others share thoughts, fears, and compulsions that sound similar to your own, it can be incredibly relieving.
OCD often convinces people that they are broken, strange, or alone in their experiences. Meeting others who truly get it can be powerful and validating. Many people leave groups feeling less isolated and more self-compassionate.
More Affordable and Accessible
Specialized OCD treatment can be expensive. Navigating the healthcare system can feel complicated and overwhelming, and many OCD specialists in the Boston area charge $150–$350 per session, depending on the provider.
Group therapy is typically offered at a lower cost, making specialized treatment more accessible without sacrificing quality or effectiveness.
It Can Actually Be Fun
This one surprises people, but it’s true. Group therapy can be genuinely enjoyable. There’s something special about connecting with others, sharing experiences, and even doing exposure work together while feeling supported by a group.
Many people find that the sense of camaraderie and shared humor makes the hard work of OCD treatment feel more manageable—and sometimes even fun.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering getting help for OCD, traditional one-on-one therapy isn’t your only option. Group therapy can be:
Just as effective as individual therapy
More affordable and accessible
A powerful way to reduce shame and isolation
A supportive, meaningful, and even enjoyable experience
And in my opinion, it can also be a really special and enjoyable way to do the work of recovery.
References:
Himle, J. A., Van Etten, M., & Fischer, D. J. (2003). Group cognitive behavioral therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder: A review. Brief Treatment and Crisis Intervention, 3(2), 217-229.
Spragg, Melanie, and Sharon Cahill. "‘Life just kind of sparkles’: clients’ experiences of being in cognitive behavioural group therapy and its impact on reducing shame in obsessive compulsive disorder." The cognitive behaviour therapist 8 (2015): e6.
Schwartze, D., Barkowski, S., Burlingame, G. M., Strauss, B., & Rosendahl, J. (2016). Efficacy of group psychotherapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders, 10, 49-61.
