Why Group Therapy Feels Less Scary Than Talking One-on-One for Some Kids

By Yana Shenker, LCSW-R
Founder, Resilient Mind Psychotherapy

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For many children, the idea of sitting alone with an adult and talking about feelings can feel intimidating, uncomfortable, or even overwhelming. While individual therapy works well for some kids, others open up more naturally when they are surrounded by peers who share similar experiences. This is why group therapy for kids often feels less scary and sometimes more effective than one-on-one therapy.

Understanding why group therapy works can help parents choose the right support for their child’s emotional and social needs.

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Kids Are Wired for Connection

Children learn about the world through relationships. They watch others, mirror behavior, and make sense of their own feelings by seeing how peers react. In a group setting, kids don’t feel singled out or “put on the spot.” Instead, they experience therapy as something shared.

When a child realizes that other kids struggle with worry, frustration, shyness, or big emotions too, something powerful happens:
they stop feeling alone.

That sense of belonging can lower anxiety and reduce the fear of being judged or misunderstood.

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Talking Isn’t Always a Child’s First Language

Adults often process emotions through conversation. Children, however, communicate through play, movement, creativity, and observation. Sitting face-to-face with a therapist and answering questions may feel unnatural especially for kids who are shy, anxious, or unsure how to put feelings into words.

Group therapy often incorporates:

• Games and cooperative activities

• Creative projects

• Role-playing and storytelling

• Movement and sensory experiences

These elements allow kids to express themselves without the pressure to “say the right thing.” In many cases, children begin talking more after they feel safe within the group.

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Safety in Numbers: Less Pressure, More Choice

In individual therapy, all attention is focused on one child. For some kids, that level of attention feels overwhelming. In group therapy, attention is shared, which gives children more control over when and how they participate.

Kids can:

• Listen before they speak

• Join in gradually

• Learn by watching others

• Speak up when they feel ready

This flexibility helps children build confidence at their own pace without feeling forced.

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Peer Learning Happens Naturally

One of the most valuable aspects of group therapy is peer modeling. Children often learn more effectively from each other than from adults alone.

In group settings, kids see peers:

• Name emotions out loud

• Ask for help

• Handle frustration

• Practice calming strategies

• Repair mistakes

These moments normalize emotional challenges and make coping skills feel achievable. A strategy suggested by another child can feel more relatable and less intimidating than one suggested by an adult.

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Social Skills Are Practiced in Real Time

Group therapy doesn’t just talk about social skills it allows children to practice them live, in a supported environment. Kids learn how to:

• Take turns

• Share space and materials

• Communicate needs

• Handle disagreement

• Read social cues

• Repair misunderstandings

Because these interactions happen naturally during activities, learning feels organic rather than instructional.

This makes group therapy for kids especially helpful for children who struggle with friendships, social anxiety, or emotional regulation in peer settings.

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Group Therapy Reduces Shame and Self-Blame

Many children internalize the idea that something is “wrong” with them when they struggle emotionally or socially. Being part of a group challenges that belief.

When kids hear others say, “I feel that way too,” shame softens. Emotional struggles become shared experiences rather than personal flaws. This shift can dramatically improve self-esteem and willingness to engage in therapy.

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How Group Therapy Works Alongside Other Approaches

Group therapy doesn’t replace individual support it complements it. For some children, group therapy works best alongside:

• Play therapy, which supports emotional expression through developmentally appropriate play

• Art therapy, which helps children express feelings visually

• Music therapy for children, which supports regulation, rhythm, and connection

• Individual sessions for deeper one-on-one processing

A thoughtful therapy plan considers the child’s personality, needs, and comfort level not just one approach.

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Which Kids Often Thrive in Group Therapy?

Group therapy may feel especially supportive for children who:

• Feel anxious speaking one-on-one with adults

• Are shy or socially withdrawn

• Struggle with peer relationships

• Learn best through interaction and play

• Feel comforted by structure and routine

• Benefit from normalization and peer connection

That said, every child is different. What matters most is finding an environment where your child feels safe, seen, and supported.

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A Less Scary Path Toward Growth

For many kids, healing doesn’t begin with talking it begins with belonging. Group therapy offers a space where children can grow emotionally while feeling understood, accepted, and connected.

When therapy feels less scary, kids are more likely to engage. And when they engage, meaningful change becomes possible.

At Resilient Mind Psychotherapy, our group therapy for children is designed to meet children where they are emotionally, socially, and developmentally so growth can happen naturally, together.