The Power of Group Therapy for Teens: Building Confidence, Connection, and Communication

Adolescence is a challenging time filled with rapid changes, increasing pressures, and emotional ups and downs. Many teens struggle with social anxiety, self-doubt, and a sense of isolation, even when surrounded by peers. At WeThrive Learning, we believe in providing meaningful support for students and their families, which is why we are excited to share insights from Brittany Fella, a licensed family and marriage therapist specializing in adolescent group therapy.  

Brittany has worked closely with WeThrive Learning, and we’ve seen firsthand how her approach transforms the lives of teens. In this blog, we’ll explore key takeaways from our conversation with her about group therapy and why it’s such a powerful tool for teen development.  

Why Group Therapy? The Power of Connection  

Many teens today experience boredom, loneliness, and a lack of engagement in relationships. While young children have structured playgroups and social learning opportunities, teens are often left to "figure it out" on their own. But relationships are complex, and navigating them successfully requires guidance and practice.  

Group therapy provides a structured yet flexible space where teens can:  

• See that others share similar struggles reduces feelings of isolation.  

• Practice social skills in a safe, judgment-free environment.  

• Build confidence by taking small steps toward self-expression.  

• Learn to navigate friendships, boundaries, and communication effectively.  

Unlike individual therapy, which focuses on personal reflection, group therapy mirrors real-life interactions. Teens learn how to show up in relationships, express themselves, and engage with others in meaningful ways.  

What Happens in Teen Therapy Group?  

Group therapy groups are small (no more than seven teens) and are designed to be a microcosm of real social interactions. These are not lecture-based or skills-training groups; rather, they are guided conversations that encourage self-discovery and interpersonal growth. Some of the recurring themes include:  

• Building a strong sense of self – Teens explore who they are and how they fit into the world.  

• Understanding friendships and boundaries– Teens learn to navigate friendships and set healthy boundaries.

• Managing perfectionism and pressure – Teens often feel immense pressure to succeed, especially in high-achievement areas. Group therapy helps reframe success and encourages flexibility.  

• Reducing screen dependence– With so much time spent on devices, many teens lack face-to-face interaction. Therapy groups offer an alternative space to engage in real conversation.  

The goal is not just to talk about these topics but to experience and practice them in real-time. By interacting with different personalities and perspectives, teens gain insight into themselves and develop stronger social skills.  

Helping Hesitant Teens (and Parents)  

Some teens (and their parents) may feel unsure about group therapy, especially if they’ve only experienced one-on-one counseling. Brittany recommends starting with an introductory meeting to build trust and understanding before joining a group. She also reassures parents that participation is at each teen’s own pace—there’s no pressure to share before they’re ready.  

A good question to ask is: “How are relationships going?” If a teen struggles with friendships, social anxiety, or communication, group therapy can provide a safe and supportive space to grow. While some teens may be hesitant at first, many end up forming lasting bonds and gaining confidence through the process.  

Supporting Parents Along the Journey  

Parenting a teen comes with its own challenges, and Brittany recognizes the importance of supporting parents as well. She offers family sessions to help parents and teens communicate more effectively, as well as a parent support group to provide guidance and connection.  

Parents play a crucial role in their teen’s social and emotional development. By modeling healthy relationships, setting boundaries, and encouraging open conversations, they can help their teens navigate this stage with more confidence and ease.  

---

At WeThrive Learning, we are committed to helping students and families thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally. If you’re interested in learning more about Brittany Fella’s group therapy or parent support group, visit her website or reach out for a consultation.  

Let’s support our teens in building stronger relationships, increasing their confidence, and finding joy in the journey!