Complex Trauma Support Group NYC

Photo by Hannah Busing on Unsplash
Tuesdays 6p to 7:15p
Wednesdays 6p to 7:15p
Please email or call to be added to the waitlist!
A trauma support group is a space where relationship dynamics and patterns can be directly observed and worked through, and where you can feel less alone in your experiences past and present. A complex trauma support group offers a safe and supportive environment where you can:
→ Build relationship skills
→ Learn to trust
→ Feel supported by others who “get it”
→ Learn to work through the consequences of the past
→ Feel less afraid
→ Gain social and coping skills
→ Overcome social anxiety
What You Can Expect from Group Therapy
Group therapy helps you build stronger, healthier relationships—starting with how you relate to yourself.
In group, you will:
- Practice setting and respecting boundaries
- Build trust with others over time
- Learn skills to manage anxiety and trauma-related responses
- Tolerate vulnerability in yourself and others
- Give and receive support around shared challenges
- Develop empathy, insight, and emotional awareness
As you engage in the process, you’ll likely notice growing self-confidence, a stronger sense of safety, and less isolation.
How Group Therapy Works
Group therapy shifts the focus from one-on-one support to shared experience.
The therapist guides the process, but does not lead it in the same way as individual therapy. Instead, they:
- Help the group stay focused and emotionally safe
- Encourage honest communication
- Highlight patterns as they emerge
Group members play an active role. You’ll support one another, share observations, and offer feedback. This creates opportunities to build insight, strengthen communication skills, and experience relationships in a new way.
A Safe and Supportive Environment
You will never be forced to share anything that feels overwhelming.
Group therapy is not the place for detailed retelling or exposure to past trauma. Instead, we focus on present-day experiences and interactions.
At the same time, growth requires some discomfort. You’ll be encouraged to step outside your usual patterns and try new ways of relating—with support every step of the way.
Before You Join
All participants complete an individual intake session with the lead therapist.
This helps:
- Ensure the group is a good fit
- Prepare you for the group process
- Set expectations and answer questions
What Happens in Group Therapy?
Interpersonal process groups do not follow a strict agenda. Each session evolves based on what members bring into the room.
You might:
- Share current challenges or patterns
- Reflect on your reactions to others
- Ask questions or offer feedback
- Explore relationship dynamics as they happen in real time
The focus stays on the “here and now”—how you relate to others in the group. Over time, this builds trust, safety, and deeper self-awareness.
Expectations for Group Members
The only core expectation is respect for others.
That said, meaningful participation often includes:
- Sharing honest thoughts and feelings
- Offering feedback with care and without judgment
- Staying open to others’ perspectives
These conversations can feel challenging at first. With practice, they become more natural—and often lead to more authentic connections both inside and outside of therapy.
Boundaries Outside of Group
Group creates meaningful connection, but it is not designed to build friendships during the process.
We ask members to:
- Keep interactions within group sessions
- Avoid forming outside relationships during the group
This protects the integrity of the group, prevents exclusion or alliances, and allows everyone to take interpersonal risks in a safe, structured space.
The Therapist’s Role
At the start, the therapist takes a more active role in:
- Building safety and trust
- Guiding communication
- Teaching interpersonal skills
As the group develops, members take on more responsibility. The therapist then focuses on:
- Observing patterns
- Supporting the group dynamic
- Maintaining a safe and productive environment
Important: Group-related discussions should happen within the group—not individually with the therapist outside of sessions. This ensures transparency and trust among members.
Commitment and Attendance
Group therapy works best with consistency.
We ask that you:
- Attend regularly and limit absences to no more than 2 sessions in a 6-month period
- Commit to at least 6–8 sessions before deciding if the group is right for you
Building trust takes time. Staying consistent helps both you and the group benefit from the process.
Fees and Insurance
- We are in-network with most Aetna plans and will bill insurance directly
- You are responsible for co-pays, deductibles, and ensuring no other sessions occur on the same day
- Private pay: $75 per session
- Limited sliding scale available
- Out-of-network reimbursement statements provided upon request
Intake session: $175–$250 (billed to insurance if applicable)
Cancellation Policy
- 24-hour notice required for cancellations
- Late cancellations incur a $75 fee (not reimbursable by insurance)
- Consistent lateness or absences may lead to reassessing fit for group
Why Group Therapy Works
Group therapy can feel uncomfortable, especially at first. That’s part of the process.
Those moments—when things feel challenging, vulnerable, or uncertain—are often where the most meaningful growth happens. With support, you can begin to shift long-standing patterns and build more fulfilling relationships.
Current Group Times
- Tuesdays: 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM
- Wednesdays: 6:00 PM – 7:15 PM
Get Started
If you’re interested in joining or have questions, reach out through our contact form or call 212-547-9853.


