Group Counselling

Why Group Therapy?

Group therapy is similar to individual counselling in that it provides a confidential space to explore feelings and experiences. The key difference is the power of shared understanding – you’ll connect with others who “get it.” Many young people find that being part of a group helps them feel less alone, builds their confidence, and offers new perspectives. Whether you’re looking to talk, listen, or both, you’ll find a space where you can feel supported and valued.

The Groups We Offer

Youth Talk currently offer 3 groups (2 creative groups and 1 adults group):  

The Creative Group

Where/When: Southdown, Harpenden on Wednesday 4pm – 5pm during term time
Where/When: Youth Talk, St Albans on Thursdays 5.30pm – 6.30pm during term time
In this confidential group, we combine talking with creative expression through art. You don’t need any art skills to take part—using art as a form of expression can be especially helpful if you find words don’t come easily. This group offers the same supportive and confidential environment as the Talking Group, with the added benefit of exploring emotions in a creative way.

Adults Group

Where: Youth Talk, St Albans
When: Saturday’s 10am – 11am, starting in September 2025

Group counselling is a safe and supportive space where a small group of people come together each week to talk, listen, and explore what’s going on beneath the surface — thoughts, feelings, and patterns that might not always be obvious.

You don’t need to come with all the answers — just curiosity and a willingness to talk (or even just listen at first). This type of group is led by a trained therapist who helps guide the conversation, but it’s the group itself — the shared experiences, different perspectives, and real connections — that make the work powerful.

Being part of a group can be surprisingly comforting. You realise you’re not the only one struggling with certain thoughts or feelings. You get to hear from others, learn about yourself, and notice how you relate to people in a way that individual therapy doesn’t always show.

How It Works

The group meets regularly — usually weekly — and talks about whatever feels important. There’s no pressure to share everything at once. Over time, trust builds, and the group becomes a place where deeper insight and change can happen.

This Group will provide a safe space to meet regularly to share and express feelings through talking and listening to each other.

The group will be run each week by the same two experienced Youth Talk Counsellors, to guide and support you whilst helping you make sense of your experience and understand the group’s feelings and difficulties whilst giving meaning to these struggles. 

Groups can bring hope for change and promote insight, through the sharing and discovery that you are supported and not alone with your problems. The power of a group is that the people attending can be incredibly helpful to each other’s recovery.

What to expect

• Small Groups: Sessions typically include around six young people of similar ages, creating an intimate and supportive environment.
• Weekly Sessions: Groups meet at the same time each week and run for one hour.
• Confidentiality: Everything shared stays within the group, ensuring a safe space for all members.
• Expert Guidance: Each group is led by two experienced counsellors who are there to support and guide you.

Before joining a group, you’ll have the opportunity to speak with a counsellor over the phone—to ask any questions and make sure it’s the right fit for you.

How long does it last?

For Creative and Talking Groups most young people attend for at least 12 weeks, though you’re welcome to stay longer if you feel it’s helpful.

Building trust and continuity with the group creates a space where everyone feels comfortable to share, listen, and grow. more here.

What young people say

Here’s what some of our past participants have shared about their experiences in group therapy:
• “I felt less anxious being around other young people and even made friendships.”
• “Group therapy helped me find my voice and understand myself better.”
• “It was a relief to know I wasn’t alone in what I was feeling.”

Ready to take the next step?

If you think group therapy could be helpful for you, get in touch with us today to learn more or to join one of our groups, you can do this by calling us on 01727 868684, emailing info@youthtalk.org.uk or completing our online referral and mention you are interested in groups

Contact us to find out more about joining a group.

“Our Groups project has kindly been made possible by a wonderful grant from The Harpenden Trust (thank you). We need donations and support from our local community to keep supporting young people. If you know of someone that could support us or fundraise for us, please do contact us.”

David Barker – Chief Executive

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