GROUP THERAPY FOR
TEENS & PRE-TEENS
Teen Group Therapy: Helping Teens Build Connection, Confidence & Coping Skills
The teen years can be a whirlwind, full of change, pressure, and growing pains that can leave teens feeling overwhelmed or alone. From academic stress to friendship drama to life transitions, it's not always easy to know how to cope. That’s where teen group therapy comes in. It’s a space designed just for teens: a place where they can be seen, heard, and supported as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence—together.
What Is Teen Group Therapy and How Can It Help?
Teen group therapy blends therapeutic guidance with the power of peer connection. It creates a supportive, judgment-free environment where teens can:
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Hearing “me too” from peers who get it helps teens realize they’re not the only ones facing these challenges. Group therapy is a space to untangle big emotions and life stress without judgment.
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In a group, teens learn to connect authentically, improve communication, and feel a sense of belonging with others who understand their experiences. Together, they will explore how to speak up, listen, manage conflict, and practice empathy in real time.
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Whether it’s school pressure or social overwhelm, teens get to talk about what’s weighing them down and find better, healthier ways to manage their emotions and stress with peer support and guidance from a teen therapist and former school counselor.
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As teens work through challenges and build authentic relationships, they develop stronger self-esteem. Teens leave group with practical strategies to help them handle life’s highs and lows with more confidence and clarity.
Current Teen Group Therapy Options:
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Virtual Group for Teens Applying to College
Feeling overwhelmed by college applications or unsure about what comes after high school? You’re not alone. This virtual therapy group is for high school seniors, spring-semester juniors, and gap year students in New Jersey and Pennsylvania who are navigating the stress of college admissions and big life changes. Led by a licensed therapist and former School Counselor, this group helps teens manage deadlines, reduce anxiety, build confidence, and feel more in control of the future. Along the way, participants will connect with peers who truly get it—offering a space to share, support one another, and build real connections during one of life’s biggest transitions.
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Virtual Middle-to-High School Transition Group
Starting high school can feel exciting—but also overwhelming. This supportive virtual group is designed for rising 9th graders who want help navigating the big leap from middle school. Led by a licensed teen therapist and former School Counselor, the group is a relaxed, engaging virtual space where teens can connect, feel understood, and gain valuable tools for the road ahead. We’ll cover topics like managing academic pressure, navigating friendships and social media, coping with anxiety, and building confidence. With a focus on emotional resilience and social support, this group helps your teen feel more prepared, and less alone, as they step into high school.
Frequently Asked Questions About
Teen Group Therapy
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Group therapy is a great fit for teens (ages 12–19) who feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or social pressure—whether it’s from school, friendships, or family dynamics. It’s also helpful for teens who struggle with low self-esteem, big emotions, or life changes like starting high school or thinking about college. If your teen seems disconnected, frustrated, or emotionally stuck, group therapy can give them tools, support, and a sense of belonging.
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Therapy groups are intentionally small—usually 6 to 8 teens. This helps create a close-knit, safe space where each teen feels seen and supported, without feeling overwhelmed by too many people.
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Each weekly session is led by Lane Balaban, a licensed therapist and former School Counselor who specializes in teen mental health.
Sessions include:
Guided conversations around topics like managing stress, relationships, and communication
Interactive activities to build real-life coping skills
Supportive peer feedback and sharing (at each teen’s comfort level)
Group balances structure with flexibility so teens feel free to share, grow, and connect without pressure.
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That’s totally fine—and actually very common. Group therapy and individual therapy work hand-in-hand. While individual sessions dive deep into personal challenges, group sessions give your teen a place to practice social skills, learn from others, and feel less alone in what they’re going through.
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Confidentiality is taken very seriously. Before joining, all families and teens review and sign a group agreement that clearly outlines privacy expectations. While we can’t control what others share outside of group, we create a culture of respect and trust—and regularly reinforce that what’s shared in group stays in group.
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In many cases, yes. If you have a PPO insurance plan, you may be able to get reimbursement for out-of-network mental health services. I’m happy to provide you with a superbill to submit to your insurance provider.
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Groups range from $100-$125. Please reach out directly for the most up-to-date pricing.
The aim is to offer care that’s both high-quality and accessible. During your intake call, we’ll discuss payment options, scheduling, and any questions you have.
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The virtual teen therapy groups are available to teens living in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and California. Since sessions are online, your teen can attend from home—making it easier and more comfortable to stick with therapy even with a busy schedule.
Secure your spot! Get the tools, guidance, and peer support you need to manage life challenges and transitions with confidence.
Meet the group therapist, Lane
Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and former High School Counselor who specializes in anxiety, school stress, life transitions, and more.
View my full profile here.
