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Does It Feel Like You're the Only One Going Through This?

Do you feel isolated in your struggles, like nobody really understands what you're dealing with?

 

Have you tried explaining your experiences to friends or family, only to feel misunderstood or dismissed?

 

Does it feel like you're carrying this weight alone?

Maybe you've been managing on your own for a while, but the isolation is starting to feel heavier. Perhaps you've wondered if there are others out there who truly get what you're going through, people who wouldn't judge you or try to "fix" you, but who would just understand.

 

You might be curious about connecting with others facing similar challenges, but you're not sure where to start or if group therapy is right for you. As a result, maybe you're considering joining a support group where you can share your experiences and learn from others who are walking a similar path.

Man Looking Up

Does this sound like you?

  • Feeling completely alone in your struggle - Like you're the only person dealing with this, and nobody else could possibly understand

  • Isolation and disconnection - Withdrawing from relationships because it's too exhausting to explain what you're going through

  • Craving connection with people who get it - Wanting to talk to someone who truly understands without needing lengthy explanations

  • Feeling like a burden - Worrying that you're overwhelming friends or family with your struggles

  • Learning how others cope - Wondering what strategies and tools have helped people in similar situations

  • Wanting validation and support - Needing to hear that your experiences and feelings are normal and that you're not alone

  • Hoping to help others while being helped - Feeling like you have something to offer others while also receiving support yourself

Sound Familiar? You Don't Have to Face This Alone

One of the most powerful aspects of healing is discovering that you're not the only one facing these challenges. Group therapy provides a unique space where people with similar experiences come together to offer support, share insights, and learn from one another.

 

Connection reduces isolation. When you hear others describe struggles similar to yours, it can be incredibly validating. You realize you're not "crazy," broken, or uniquely flawed - you're human, and others are navigating similar paths.

There's power in shared experience. Group members often become each other's greatest teachers and sources of hope, offering perspectives and coping strategies that only someone who has "been there" can provide.

Let's rediscover your Bright Light.

How Group Therapy Can Help

Group therapy offers something individual therapy can't - the experience of being part of a supportive community facing similar challenges. You'll be seen, heard, and understood by people who truly get it.

You learn you're not alone. Hearing others share experiences similar to yours can be incredibly powerful and validating. The isolation that often comes with struggling starts to lift.

You gain multiple perspectives. Instead of just one therapist's viewpoint, you benefit from the wisdom, insights, and coping strategies of multiple people navigating similar challenges.

You practice in a safe space. Group provides opportunities to work on communication, boundary-setting, and relationship skills in real-time with supportive feedback.

 

You help others while being helped. There's something deeply healing about offering support and encouragement to others - it reminds you of your own strength and resilience.

Group Discussion
Group of people during group therapy

What to Expect in Group Therapy Sessions

We create a safe, confidential environment. What's shared in group stays in group. Members commit to respecting each other's privacy and creating a judgment-free space.

The facilitator guides the process. Your group therapist will help create structure, keep discussions productive, ensure everyone has space to share, and maintain healthy group dynamics.

You share at your own pace. There's no pressure to share before you're ready. Some people jump right in, others take time to get comfortable - both are perfectly okay.

You'll hear from others facing similar challenges. The power of group comes from shared experiences, mutual support, and learning from each other's journeys.

You build genuine connections. Many group members form meaningful relationships and find that the support extends beyond just the weekly sessions.

You May Have Some Questions About Group Therapy...

How is group therapy different from individual therapy?

Individual therapy provides one-on-one attention focused entirely on your specific needs.

 

Group therapy offers something individual therapy can't... connection with others facing similar challenges.

In group, you gain multiple perspectives, learn from others' coping strategies, and realize you're not alone. You also practice new skills and receive feedback from peers who truly understand.

Many people find the combination of both provides the most comprehensive support.

What if I'm uncomfortable sharing in front of other people?

This is completely normal. You're never pressured to share before you're ready.  Many people start by just listening and observing.

Your group facilitator creates a safe, judgment-free space where vulnerability is respected, not forced. As you hear others share and experience the supportive environment, opening up often becomes easier at your own pace.

Most people find that once they take that first step to share, the relief and validation they receive makes it worth it.

What if I feel more anxious in a group setting?

It's common to feel anxious about group at first, especially if social situations already feel difficult. The irony is that group therapy can actually help you work through discomfort in a safe, supportive environment.

Your facilitator understands this and will help you ease into the group experience at a pace that feels manageable. You don't have to perform or be "on" - just show up as you are.

Many people find that their initial anxiety decreases as they realize the group is a judgment-free space where everyone is there to support each other, not evaluate you.

Can I do both individual therapy and group therapy at the same time?

Absolutely! Many people find that combining individual and group therapy provides the most well-rounded support.

If you're interested in both, we can help coordinate care so your individual and group work complement each other.

Current Groups

Supporting your LGBTQ+ child's journey?
You don't have to figure it out alone.

Next Steps: A Support & Learning Group for Parents of LGBTQ+ Folx

 

This is a safe space to learn, reflect, and connect with other parents who truly understand.

 

What to expect:

  • Process your own emotions with compassion and without judgment

  • Learn affirming language and practical ways to support your child

  • Navigate fears about safety and the future alongside others

  • Build confidence in your ability to advocate for your unique child

  • Connect with parents who get it

You don't need to have all the answers. You just need the willingness to show up for yourself and your child.

 

Group Details:

  • 6 sessions, every other week starting March 31st

  • 90 minutes per session

  • In Person at our Austin Office

  • Closed group with limited spots

  • Pay in Full prior to group: $270

  • Pay at each attendance: $55/group session

Ready to take the next step? A brief phone screening is required. 

Your child's journey deserves support. So does yours.​​

Coco Connection and Community

Trans Femme Support Circle

This is a community-based support group for trans-femme people and trans women seeking connection, understanding, and shared care.

Grounded in the belief that community itself is therapeutic, the group offers a safe, affirming space for honest and open sharing. Sessions are unstructured and responsive; shaped by what members need in the moment, allowing space to unpack feelings, offer mutual emotional support, and engage in communal healing.

Together, we build community, share stories and resources, and uplift one another!

 

Group Details:

  • First Monday of every Month

  • 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

  • 90 minutes per session

  • In Person at Coco Coquette

  • RSVP by 12PM day of group

What is a Support Group/Psychoeducation Group/Skill Based Group?

 

A support/psychoeducation/skill based group is a safe place where people that share common struggles and/or issues come together to receive information, encouragement, and share about their experiences. Members participate through listening, sharing, and learning together. The support group facilitator will assist in creating a safe environment through sharing information and education, engaging the group in productive discussions, guiding the group to remain on topic, assisting the group in following guidelines, and identifying common themes for group members to explore. Through participating in these groups, members are able to offer support, encouragement, and comfort to the other group members, and receive the same in return. Joining and participating in a support group is an important way to connect with other people facing similar challenges or difficulties and develop ways to work through them. 

From Isolated to Connected

You don't have to face your challenges alone. Group therapy provides a supportive community of people who understand what you're going through and are committed to healing together.

You deserve to feel understood, supported, and connected. Take the first step toward finding your community and discovering the power of shared healing.

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30 N Michigan Ave Ste 515,

Chicago, Illinois 60602

1500 W 38th St Suite 32,

Austin, Texas 78731

Contact

FX: 1-888-356-8766

We acknowledge that the Chicago office of Bright Light Counseling Center is located on the unceded land of the Potawatomi, Očhéthi Šakówiŋ, Myaamia, Kaskaskia, Kickapoo, Ho-Chunk, and Peoria Nations. We also acknowledge that the Austin office of Bright Light Counseling Center is located on the unceded land of the Tonkawa, Coahuiltecan, Jumanos, Comanche, Lipan Apache, and Sana Nations.We pay our respects to the elders, past and present, of these Nations. We are grateful for the opportunity to work and live on this land.

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