CBT Group Therapy: Harnessing the Power of Shared Healing & Cognitive Change

Did you know that cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is the most widely used therapy to treat substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions in Los Angeles? And why not - it is considered the gold standard of psychotherapy. Still, NuView goes a step further to offer CBT in a group setting so that you can harness the power of an understanding community to identify and change your unhelpful thinking patterns toward a healthier future.

Cognitive behavioral group therapy uses cognitive behavioral principles in a group setting so that you can receive the added benefit of an understanding community in your recovery journey.

Cognitive behavioral principles are based on identifying and changing maladaptive thinking patterns leading to unhelpful emotions and behaviors underlying substance misuse and mental health conditions. They also equip you with productive coping skills to deal with life’s stressors in a healthy way.

Linda Whiteside, Clinical Supervisor at the NuView Treatment Center, says, “At NuView’s Los Angeles facility, we administer this therapy in a setting of 5-10 members, led by a licensed and trained therapist. This way, you can receive the cumulative benefits of both CBT and group therapy. Cognitive behavioral group therapy is a highly effective therapy, and consistent sessions of over two months reduce stress, anxiety, and other negative experiences.”

CBT group therapy works on the basis of the following:

• The Basics: The therapist specifies the rules with an emphasis on respecting confidentiality and each member. Cognitive behavioral groups usually consist of 5 - 10 members, and each session can last anywhere between 1.5 - 2 hours. These groups can be open to allow new members or closed.
• Cognitive Restructuring: You identify your negative thinking patterns to challenge your belief systems can be tested through behavioral experiments. While this can seem discomforting at first, it gives way to new perspectives and experiences, challenging and reshaping the old, negative ways within a supportive community.
• Normalization: You and fellow members come together and share experiences. This reduces feelings of loneliness and isolation and provides a sense of belonging and community.
• Collaborative Relationships: You develop collaborative relationships with others, which contribute to your healing experience and enrich your interpersonal life.
• In-Vivo Exposure: You are encouraged to face your fears in a supportive setting. As you do so, you will receive support and encouragement from fellow members that goes a long way in overcoming your fears.
• Learning and Positive Reinforcement: You will learn by listening and observing. Within a group setting, you will also receive positive reinforcement for every step you take in the right direction.

Linda Whiteside says, “At NuView, CBT groups can be open or closed. We tailor them to fit in with your needs and goals so that your healing journey is relevant to you as it is empowering.”

CBT group therapy can be used to treat a wide range of symptoms and conditions, such as:

• Anxiety disorders
• Panic disorders
• Specific phobias
• Major depressive disorder (depression)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Substance use disorders (SUDs)
• Sleep troubles, like insomnia
• Anger management
• Chronic pain.

Yes, CBT group therapy is highly effective. Studies have shown that it is highly effective in treating conditions like anxiety, depression, and others.

Linda Whiteside says, “At NuView’s Los Angeles facility, our clients show 60% meaningful improvement with cognitive behavioral group therapy. As it also involves a supportive community, even the dropout rates are low.”

If CBT group therapy resonates with where you are in your healing journey, reach out to NuView Today! We provide personalized CBT group sessions that are designed to meet you where you are for a transformational recovery and a healthier future.

Please do not hesitate to call us at (323) 307-7997 to connect with our CBT experts today!

1. Is CBT group therapy effective if I am not comfortable speaking in groups?

Yes. Many members benefit simply by listening at first, and participation grows with safety and trust.

2. How does CBT group therapy differ from AA or peer-led groups?

CBT group therapy is clinically structured, therapist-led, and focused on skill-building. It is not just based on shared experiences.

3. Can CBT group therapy help with everyday challenges?

Yes. CBT skills directly improve communication, emotion regulation, and setting boundaries in everyday interactions.

4. What happens if my symptoms feel more serious than those of others in the group?

CBT groups are intentionally diverse, and therapists tailor interventions so each member progresses at their own pace.

5. Does CBT group therapy continue to help after the sessions end?

Yes. The practical tools you learn are designed for lifelong use, supporting emotional resilience and relapse prevention.