Group Psychotherapy

Group Psychotherapy
Group Psychotherapy in Maple Grove, MN
Experience Collective Healing & Growth in a Therapeutic Group Setting
Contact Us Today
Call (763) 200-1071
About Dagaz Therapy’s Group Psychotherapy
Dagaz Therapy, led by Business Owner: Britta Svihel, offers evidence-based Group Psychotherapy services in Maple Grove, MN, designed to help participants leverage peer support, shared experiences, and structured clinical interventions to address mental health concerns and improve overall well-being. Our practice is located in WEAVER LAKE OFFICE PARK, at 10900 89th Ave N, Suite 2, Maple Grove, MN 55369, easily accessible for residents of Maple Grove, Plymouth, Brooklyn Park, Rogers, Minnetonka, Osseo, Champlin, Crystal, New Hope, Brooklyn Center, and surrounding Hennepin County communities.
Group Psychotherapy at Dagaz Therapy provides a structured, clinically oriented environment where a licensed therapist facilitates a small group of participants (6–8 individuals) working toward similar objectives—such as addressing anxiety disorders, depressive symptoms, trauma recovery, or interpersonal difficulties. Through a combination of psychoeducation, evidence-based therapeutic exercises (e.g., Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Interpersonal Process Therapy, Mindfulness), and guided group process, participants gain insight into their patterns, practice healthier coping skills, and forge deeper connections with peers engaged in similar journeys.
What Is Group Psychotherapy?
Group Psychotherapy is a form of psychotherapy conducted in a group setting, where multiple participants meet regularly under the guidance of a licensed clinician. Unlike “support groups,” which primarily focus on peer sharing and mutual encouragement, Group Psychotherapy at Dagaz Therapy emphasizes:
- Clinician-Guided Interventions
- A licensed therapist structures each session around specific therapeutic goals, integrates evidence-based techniques, and manages group dynamics to foster a safe, respectful, and growth-oriented environment.
- Psychoeducation & Skill-Building
- Participants learn about the underlying mechanisms of their concerns (e.g., how cognitive distortions maintain anxiety, the impact of attachment patterns on relationships, the neuroscience of trauma) through didactic modules and interactive exercises.
- Interpersonal Process Work
- By observing real-time feedback from peers, participants gain insight into how their behaviors, communication styles, or relational patterns impact others and learn to experiment with new, healthier ways of interacting.
- Shared Healing Through Peer Connection
- Recognizing that others face similar challenges reduces shame and isolation. Group members validate one another’s experiences, model empathy, and provide constructive feedback under the clinician’s facilitation.
- Ongoing Structure & Confidentiality
- Groups meet weekly for 60–90 minutes, following a structured outline: check-ins, psychoeducational segment, experiential activity, interpersonal feedback, and goal-setting.
- A signed Group Confidentiality Agreement ensures that personal information shared in session remains private.
Why Choose Dagaz Therapy for Group Psychotherapy in Maple Grove?
- Expert Clinicians with Specialized Training
- Licensed therapists (including Britta Svihel) bring advanced training in group process, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills, Interpersonal Process Therapy (IPT), and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR).
- Facilitators maintain safe group boundaries while encouraging authentic sharing and practice of new skills.
- Convenient Maple Grove Location
- Held at 10900 89th Ave N, Suite 2, Maple Grove, within WEAVER LAKE OFFICE PARK, our spacious conference room accommodates 6–8 participants comfortably.
- Ample free parking and wheelchair-accessible entrance. Easily reachable from Highway 169, County Road 30, and nearby neighborhoods in Plymouth, Brooklyn Park, and Rogers.
- Tailored Group Tracks for Common Clinical Concerns
- Dagaz Therapy offers distinct 8–12 week cycles of specialized Group Psychotherapy tracks:
- Anxiety & Panic Resilience Group
- Depression & Mood Regulation Group
- Trauma Recovery & PTSD Healing Group
- Interpersonal Skills & Relationship Repair Group
- Each track addresses a specific clinical focus, combining psychoeducation, experiential exercises, and interpersonal feedback tailored to that theme.
- Dagaz Therapy offers distinct 8–12 week cycles of specialized Group Psychotherapy tracks:
- Cohesive, Small-Group Format
- Groups are limited to a maximum of 8 participants to ensure everyone receives personalized attention, ample speaking time, and meaningful feedback.
- Repeating the same group composition for an entire cycle fosters trust, continuity, and deeper therapeutic process compared to drop-in or large-scale groups.
- Integration of Telehealth & In-Person Sessions
- In-person groups meet at our Maple Grove office for live, face-to-face interaction.
- Telehealth Groups use a secure HIPAA-compliant video platform for participants residing in New Hope, Brooklyn Center, Osseo, Champlin, Crystal, or rural areas.
- Telehealth groups maintain the same structure, confidentiality protocols, and therapist facilitation as in-person sessions.
- Comprehensive Insurance Coverage & Affordable Options
- Dagaz Therapy accepts most major insurance plans (including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota, HealthPartners, Medica, UCare, UnitedHealthcare, MN Medicaid for in-network providers).
- Sliding scale fees and payment plans are available for uninsured or underinsured clients.
Our Group Psychotherapy Services
Each Group Psychotherapy track runs on a weekly 60–90 minute schedule, spanning 8–12 consecutive weeks. New cycles begin monthly, allowing clients to join at a convenient start date. Below are the core components shared across all tracks:
1. Intake Screening & Placement
- Free Phone Consultation
- Call (763) 200-1071 to discuss clinical concerns, group track options, availability, and insurance coverage.
- Determine whether Group Psychotherapy is the appropriate level of care or if individual therapy is recommended first.
- 20–30 Minute Intake Screening (In-Person or Telehealth)
- Complete a structured screening to assess symptom severity, safety concerns (e.g., active suicidal ideation), and group readiness.
- Clinician reviews mental health history, current stressors, and prior therapy experiences to recommend the most suitable group track.
- If further individual stabilization is needed before joining a group (e.g., active self-harm behaviors), the clinician will coordinate individual therapy or crisis services first.
- Group Orientation Session (First Week of Cycle)
- New members attend a 30-minute orientation before the first full group session:
- Review group guidelines (confidentiality, respectful listening, no cross-consulting outside sessions).
- Explain session structure (check-ins, psychoeducation, experiential exercise, interpersonal feedback, goal-setting).
- Introduce the cycle’s curriculum and individual “between-session” assignments.
- New members attend a 30-minute orientation before the first full group session:
2. Group Session Structure
All Group Psychotherapy sessions follow a structured, four-part format to maximize therapeutic benefit and peer connection:
- Welcome & Check-In (10–15 Minutes)
- Participants rate their current symptom level (e.g., anxiety scale, mood thermometer, PTSD symptom check) and share a brief update related to the group’s focus.
- Facilitator notes any crisis needs—if a participant is at acute risk, the clinician addresses safety first (e.g., suicidality, substance relapse) before continuing the group.
- Psychoeducational Module (15–20 Minutes)
- Clinician presents a brief didactic segment tailored to the group’s theme:
- Anxiety Group: “Understanding the Neurobiology of Anxiety,” “Cognitive Distortions and Thought Records,” or “Interoceptive Exposure Practices.”
- Depression Group: “Behavioral Activation & Pleasurable Activities,” “Cognitive Restructuring for Depressive Thoughts,” or “Sleep Hygiene Strategies.”
- Trauma Group: “The Window of Tolerance,” “Grounding Techniques for PTSD,” or “Reframing Trauma-Related Beliefs.”
- Interpersonal Skills: “Attachment Styles & Relationship Dynamics,” “Assertive Communication Techniques,” or “Conflict Resolution Strategies.”
- Handouts, slides, or brief worksheets reinforce key concepts.
- Clinician presents a brief didactic segment tailored to the group’s theme:
- Experiential Exercise & Practice (20–25 Minutes)
- Participants engage in a guided exercise to practice a new skill:
- Anxiety Group: Diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, interoceptive exposure in-session (e.g., hyperventilation exercise).
- Depression Group: Creating a personalized Behavioral Activation plan, mood scheduling worksheet, or mindfulness body scan.
- Trauma Group: Safe place visualization, bilateral stimulation (EMDR resourcing), or titrated trauma scripting.
- Interpersonal Skills: Role-playing assertive “I-statements,” practicing active listening in pairs, or group empathy exercises.
- Clinician circulates, provides feedback, and ensures safety if any distress arises.
- Participants engage in a guided exercise to practice a new skill:
- Interpersonal Feedback & Process Work (20–25 Minutes)
- Each participant—on a volunteer basis—shares how the exercise felt, any insights, or challenges encountered.
- Group members provide constructive feedback, reflections, or supportive observations under clinician guidance.
- Clinician highlights positive changes in communication, points out unhelpful patterns (e.g., interrupting, minimizing), and encourages experimentation with new behaviors in real time.
- Goal-Setting & Homework Assignment (5–10 Minutes)
- Participants set a specific, measurable goal for the coming week aligned with the group’s focus (e.g., “Complete three 10-minute relaxation exercises,” “Challenge one negative automatic thought per day,” “Practice asking for help from a trusted friend”).
- Clinician distributes brief between-session worksheets or resources (e.g., daily thought record templates, mood logs, journaling prompts) to reinforce in-session learning.
3. Specialized Group Tracks
Dagaz Therapy currently offers the following Group Psychotherapy tracks, each tailored to address distinct clinical needs:
A. Anxiety & Panic Resilience Group
- Duration: 10-week cycle, 90 minutes per session
- Target Population: Adults and adolescents (ages 16+) experiencing generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, or specific phobias that interfere with daily functioning.
- Core Objectives:
- Psychoeducation on the fight-or-flight response, sympathetic nervous system activation, and anxiety maintenance cycles.
- CBT Techniques: Identifying cognitive distortions (e.g., catastrophizing, fortune-telling), cognitive restructuring exercises, and graded exposure hierarchies.
- Interoceptive Exposure: Guided in-session exercises to reduce fear of bodily sensations (e.g., hyperventilation, spinning in chair).
- Mindfulness & Relaxation: Diaphragmatic breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery to reduce sympathetic arousal.
- Interpersonal Process: Practicing social skills in a safe environment—facilitated “graded social exposures” (e.g., sharing a personal anecdote, giving a brief in-group presentation).
B. Depression & Mood Regulation Group
- Duration: 12-week cycle, 90 minutes per session
- Target Population: Adults and adolescents (ages 16+) presenting with persistent low mood, anhedonia, sleep disruptions, or functional impairment due to depressive symptoms.
- Core Objectives:
- Behavioral Activation: Develop activity scheduling to reintroduce pleasurable and mastery activities into daily routines.
- Cognitive Restructuring: Identify and challenge depressive automatic thoughts, core beliefs (e.g., “I’m worthless”), and negative self-talk through thought records.
- Emotion Regulation: Practice mindfulness body scans, emotion labeling, and distress tolerance skills to manage intense negative affect.
- Interpersonal Process: Address interpersonal difficulties exacerbating depression—role-play asking for help, expressing needs, setting boundaries.
- Relapse Prevention: Create personalized mood maintenance plans including early warning sign identification, coping strategies, and emergency resources.
C. Trauma Recovery & PTSD Healing Group
- Duration: 12-week cycle, 90 minutes per session
- Target Population: Adults and adolescents (ages 16+) with a history of trauma (e.g., childhood abuse, sexual assault, accidents, witnessing violence) and PTSD symptoms such as intrusive memories, hypervigilance, avoidance.
- Core Objectives:
- Trauma Psychoeducation: Understand the neurobiology of trauma, the window of tolerance, and common PTSD symptom clusters.
- Grounding & Stabilization: Practice grounding techniques (5-4-3-2-1 sensory method), safe-place visualization, and developing internal resources.
- EMDR Resource Development: Identify and strengthen positive cognitions (“I am safe,” “I am capable”) using bilateral stimulation (BLS) without full trauma processing in group.
- TF-CBT Elements: Develop coping skills for managing trauma-related emotions, incorporate gradual trauma exposure exercises (sharing brief, controlled narratives within comfortable boundaries).
- Interpersonal Process: Address relational impacts of trauma—trust building, setting boundaries, communicating needs—through group feedback and modeling.
D. Interpersonal Skills & Relationship Repair Group
- Duration: 8-week cycle, 60 minutes per session
- Target Population: Adults (ages 18+) struggling with interpersonal difficulties—conflict in romantic relationships, family estrangement, poor social support, or workplace tension.
- Core Objectives:
- Attachment & Relationship Mapping: Explore personal attachment style (secure, anxious, avoidant) and how it influences communication and intimacy.
- Assertive Communication: Practice “I-statements,” active listening, and conflict de-escalation techniques through role-play.
- Boundary Setting: Learn to set healthy boundaries—saying “no,” expressing needs, and resisting codependent patterns.
- Empathy & Validation: Engage in exercises where participants practice reflecting feelings and validating others’ experiences without minimizing.
- Repair & Reconciliation: Develop strategies for apologizing effectively, offering/accepting forgiveness, and reinstating trust after relational ruptures.
Who Can Benefit from Group Psychotherapy?
Dagaz Therapy’s Group Psychotherapy services are designed for adults and adolescents (ages 16+) in Maple Grove, Plymouth, Brooklyn Park, Rogers, Minnetonka, Osseo, Champlin, Crystal, New Hope, Brooklyn Center, Maple Plain, and nearby areas who:
- Experience Anxiety Disorder Symptoms
- Frequent panic attacks, social anxiety that limits activities, or generalized worry that disrupts daily functioning.
- Those who have tried individual therapy and want the added benefit of peer exposure exercises and group process work.
- Struggle with Depressive Symptoms
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, low motivation, or difficulty engaging in enjoyable activities.
- Individuals who benefit from behavioral activation and social reinforcement found in a supportive group environment.
- Live with Trauma-Related Difficulties & PTSD
- History of single-incident or complex trauma whose symptoms (intrusive memories, nightmares, hypervigilance) impair relationships and quality of life.
- Clients who have completed initial stabilization in individual therapy and are ready for gradual, group-based trauma work.
- Have Interpersonal or Relational Challenges
- Difficulties in romantic relationships, family estrangements, or poor communication with co-workers.
- Anyone seeking to improve social skills, set healthier boundaries, and repair relationship ruptures.
- Prefer Group-Based Healing Over Individual Work Alone
- Individuals who find solace in knowing others share similar struggles and appreciate real-time feedback on behaviors and relational patterns.
- People who want to practice new coping skills—like assertive communication or anxiety management—in front of a small, safe group.
- Are Open to Structured, Therapist-Led Interventions
- Those who value clinician guidance, psychoeducation, and evidence-based exercises rather than purely peer-led support formats.
- Individuals who understand that group psychotherapy is an adjunct to (not a replacement for) individual therapy when necessary.
Telehealth & In-Person Options
Dagaz Therapy offers both In-Person and Telehealth Group Psychotherapy formats to meet diverse needs:
In-Person Group Psychotherapy
- Location: 10900 89th Ave N, Suite 2, Maple Grove, MN 55369 (WEAVER LAKE OFFICE PARK)
- Room Setup: Comfortable seating arranged in a circle to promote equal participation; natural lighting and calming décor; private, soundproof conference room.
- Features:
- Whiteboard or flip chart for facilitator to illustrate psychoeducational content.
- Guided relaxation corner with pillows, blankets, and calming resources for grounding exercises.
- Free on-site parking and elevator access for second-floor suite.
Telehealth Group Psychotherapy
- Platform: Secure HIPAA-compliant video conferencing accessible via smartphone, tablet, or computer.
- Features:
- Gallery view to see all participants simultaneously, encouraging visual group cohesion.
- Screen-sharing capabilities to display handouts, slides, or guided mindfulness videos.
- Private chat for participants to message the facilitator if they experience distress or need a break.
- Benefits:
- Removes geographic barriers for participants in Brooklyn Center, New Hope, Osseo, Champlin, Crystal, or rural Minnesota.
- Ideal for those with transportation challenges, busy work schedules, or mobility limitations.
- Telehealth groups maintain the same confidentiality agreements and structure as in-person sessions.
Insurance & Payment Options
Dagaz Therapy accepts most major insurance plans for Group Psychotherapy, including:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota
- HealthPartners
- Medica
- UCare
- UnitedHealthcare
- MN Medicaid (in-network providers)
- Sliding Scale & Private Pay: We offer sliding scale fees based on income and household size. Payment plans can be arranged for clients without sufficient insurance coverage.
Note: Group sessions are often covered at a lower co-pay or coinsurance rate than individual therapy. Call (763) 200-1071 to verify your coverage, co-pays, and any potential out-of-pocket expenses before registering for a group cycle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between Group Psychotherapy and Group Support?
A: Group Psychotherapy is a clinician-led, structured intervention focusing on evidence-based techniques (CBT, EMDR elements, interpersonal process) to address specific clinical concerns. In contrast, Group Support (e.g., peer support groups) typically emphasizes mutual encouragement and personal sharing without a formal therapeutic framework. At Dagaz Therapy, Group Psychotherapy combines psychoeducation, skill-building, and process work led by a licensed therapist.
Q: How do I know which group track is right for me?
A: During your free phone consultation, we’ll review your primary mental health or relational concerns and recommend the most appropriate track—Anxiety & Panic Resilience, Depression & Mood Regulation, Trauma Recovery & PTSD Healing, or Interpersonal Skills & Relationship Repair. If you are uncertain which best fits, the intake screening (20–30 minutes) will help clarify placement.
Q: What happens if I start a group cycle but decide it’s not a good fit?
A: We encourage you to meet with the clinician to discuss your concerns. If, after two sessions, you still feel the group doesn’t align with your needs, we can explore transitioning you to a different group track (if space allows) or recommend individual therapy. Refunds or pro-rated billing adjustments are made on a case-by-case basis—please call (763) 200-1071 for details.
Q: Can I join mid-cycle?
A: New members must attend the Group Orientation at the start of each cycle to learn confidentiality guidelines, session structure, and group expectations. If you miss the orientation, you will need to wait until the next cycle begins. Returning members who have already completed orientation can rejoin mid-cycle if there is space.
Q: How do you ensure confidentiality in a group setting?
A: All participants sign a Group Confidentiality Agreement at orientation, legally committing to keep shared information private. Facilitators reinforce confidentiality rules at the beginning of every session. Violations of confidentiality may result in removal from the group.
Q: What if I experience distress during a group session?
A: Facilitators are trained to recognize signs of acute distress. If a participant becomes overwhelmed, they can use a “safety signal” (e.g., typing “pause” in chat for telehealth, raising a hand in-person) to request a brief break. The facilitator will check in privately and offer stabilization techniques (grounding, breathing). If more intensive support is needed, the participant may be referred to individual therapy or crisis services (e.g., North Memorial Health Hospital Maple Grove).
Q: Are there evening or weekend group options?
A: Yes. Dagaz Therapy offers limited evening (after 5 PM) and Saturday sessions to accommodate work, school, and family schedules. Availability varies by track—call (763) 200-1071 for current schedules.
Q: How long does each group cycle last?
A: Cycles run for 8–12 consecutive weeks depending on the track:
- Anxiety & Panic Resilience: 10 weeks
- Depression & Mood Regulation: 12 weeks
- Trauma Recovery & PTSD Healing: 12 weeks
- Interpersonal Skills & Relationship Repair: 8 weeks
New cycles begin monthly, allowing flexibility in start dates.
How to Get Started with Group Psychotherapy
- Call for a Free Phone Consultation
- Dial (763) 200-1071 to speak with our intake coordinator. We’ll discuss your concerns, preferred group track, scheduling preferences, and insurance coverage.
- Complete a 20–30 Minute Intake Screening
- Attend a brief screening—either in-person at 10900 89th Ave N, Suite 2, Maple Grove or via secure telehealth—to assess symptom severity, safety, and group readiness.
- Clinician will confirm the recommended group track and schedule your Group Orientation.
- Attend the Group Orientation
- New members join a 30-minute orientation at the start of the cycle to review confidentiality guidelines, session structure, and expectations.
- Returning members skip orientation and join the first full session of the cycle.
- Participate in Weekly Group Sessions (60–90 Minutes)
- Engage in check-ins, psychoeducation, experiential exercises, and interpersonal feedback.
- Commit to weekly attendance for the entire 8–12 week cycle, completing between-session assignments to reinforce learning.
- Review Progress & Plan Next Steps
- At the final session of the cycle, participants receive a brief Progress Summary—highlighting skills learned, observed growth, and recommendations for ongoing self-care.
- Choose to re-enroll in a new cycle, transition to individual therapy, or join an alumni check-in group for continued support.
Call Dagaz Therapy Today
Business Owner: Britta Svihel
Address: 10900 89th Ave N, Suite 2, Maple Grove, MN 55369 (WEAVER LAKE OFFICE PARK)
Phone: (763) 200-1071
Dagaz Therapy’s Group Psychotherapy services are available to residents of Maple Grove, Plymouth, Brooklyn Park, Rogers, Minnetonka, Osseo, Champlin, Crystal, New Hope, Brooklyn Center, Maple Plain, and other Minnesota communities. If you’re ready to engage in a supportive, clinically guided group setting, reach out today to discover the transformative power of shared healing and structured therapeutic work.