Group Therapy in Illinois
Group therapy is where much of the real change happens in treatment. Hearing from people who understand what you are going through, practicing new skills in a safe setting, and realizing you are not alone are things individual therapy cannot fully provide.
Forrest Behavioral Health runs therapist-led groups in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, as part of our day treatment, intensive outpatient, evening IOP, and outpatient programs. Groups are small, confidential, and facilitated by licensed clinicians.
Medically reviewed by Annmarie Gacek, LCSW, CADC, C-DBT, Clinical Director · Last reviewed October 21, 2026
How Group Therapy Works
Our groups are led by licensed therapists and typically include six to twelve adults. Some are process groups, where members talk through what is happening in their lives and get feedback and support. Others are skills groups that teach specific tools from CBT, DBT, and relapse prevention. Most clients attend both kinds.
Confidentiality is a firm rule, and members agree to it at the start. Many people are nervous about group at first and find within a few sessions that it becomes the part of treatment they value most. Research consistently shows group therapy to be as effective as individual therapy for many conditions, and the two together outperform either alone.
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Want to know how this fits into treatment? Request a confidential call and a recovery specialist will walk you through it and verify your insurance.
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Groups We Offer
Group offerings vary by program and schedule, and typically include:
- Process groups for mental health recovery
- DBT skills groups
- CBT skills and thought-challenging groups
- Relapse prevention for substance use
- Trauma-informed support groups
- Anxiety and stress management
- Emotion regulation and distress tolerance
- Life skills and wellness planning
- Family education sessions
- Alumni and aftercare groups
Forrest Behavioral Health
Ready to learn more about group therapy? Call our Hoffman Estates team to speak with a recovery specialist today.
Group therapy at Every Level of Care
Group therapy makes up the majority of programming hours in our higher levels of care, and it continues in outpatient care for those who want ongoing support.
Who Leads Our Groups
Groups are facilitated by licensed therapists and counselors, including our Clinical Group Facilitator and certified addiction counselors, with our psychiatric provider and case managers involved in planning.
Day Treatment Program (PHP)
Our day treatment program includes this service daily, five days a week, while you continue to live at home.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our intensive outpatient program and evening IOP include it several times a week around work or school.
Outpatient Care
Through our outpatient program, it continues weekly after a higher level of care or for milder symptoms, in person in Hoffman Estates or by telehealth anywhere in Illinois.
Frequently Asked Questions About Group therapy
Do I have to share in group?
You are encouraged to participate, but no one is forced to share before they are ready. Many people listen for the first few sessions and open up as trust builds.
Will I be in a group with people who have different problems than mine?
Groups are organized by program and often by focus, so you will be with people working on similar issues. Mental health and substance use groups overlap because the two so often go together.
Does insurance cover this?
Most commercial insurance plans cover these services through outpatient, IOP, and PHP programs. We will verify your benefits for free before you begin.
Is it available by telehealth?
Yes. We offer in-person sessions at our Hoffman Estates clinic and secure video sessions for clients anywhere in Illinois.
What if I am in crisis right now?
If you are in danger or having thoughts of harming yourself, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or go to the nearest emergency room.
Forrest Behavioral Health
Ready to get started with group therapy in Hoffman Estates, IL? We are here for you.
Treatment Programs
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Other Programs
Outpatient Program (OP)
The outpatient program at our rehab is tailored to those who have completed higher levels of care or require a less intensive treatment approach due to their stage in recovery. During standard outpatient treatment, clients engage in therapy sessions once or twice a week, focusing on maintaining sobriety, strengthening coping mechanisms, and continuing personal growth in recovery. This flexible program is designed to support clients as they navigate the challenges of everyday life, providing ongoing support and resources while allowing them to fulfill their personal, professional, and family commitments. It’s an ideal solution for long-term recovery management, offering a supportive network and professional guidance as clients build a fulfilling, sober life.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our intensive outpatient program is designed for individuals who need more support than standard outpatient treatment but have a stable living situation that supports their recovery journey. An intensive outpatient program involves attending therapy sessions and group meetings several times a week, often during evenings or weekends, to accommodate work or school schedules. This level of care allows clients to integrate real-world experiences into their treatment, applying learned skills in daily life while maintaining a strong connection to support and guidance. The focus is on developing personal accountability, understanding the root causes of addiction, and building a sustainable recovery plan.