Group Counseling
Group Counseling in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Healing Happens in Connection
Some of the deepest healing happens when you realize you're not the only one. Our small, therapist-led groups offer a safe, supportive space to share your story, learn practical tools, and grow alongside others who truly understand what you're walking through. Our groups meet in person at our Virginia Beach office and in partnership with local community spaces.
You've Been Carrying This Alone for Too Long…
You have people in your life who care about you, but when you try to explain what you're going through, the words don't land. Friends mean well, but their advice misses the mark. Over time, it just feels easier to keep it to yourself, even though the silence is getting heavier.
You Wonder If Something Is Wrong With You
Everyone else seems to be moving forward, and you're still stuck. You replay the same thoughts, fight the same battles, and quietly wonder why you can't just "get over it." The shame of struggling can feel almost as painful as the struggle itself.
You Want Support, But You're Not Sure Where to Start
Maybe you've been in individual therapy and want to build on that work. Maybe you're not ready for one-on-one sessions yet. Either way, you're looking for something that helps you feel less isolated and more equipped to handle what life keeps throwing at you.
If this sounds familiar, group counseling may be the next step for you. Reach out today to book your free consultation.
How Group Counseling Helps
Group counseling brings together a small number of people who share similar experiences, guided by a trained, trauma-informed therapist. Each session creates space for honest conversation, skill-building, and the kind of support that only comes from people who've been there too.
In group, many people discover that:
You are not alone. Hearing others put words to what you've felt can bring profound relief and reduce shame.
Your story matters. Sharing in a safe, structured space helps you feel seen, heard, and understood.
Healing is relational. Trauma often happens in relationships, and healing can too. Group offers a chance to practice trust, boundaries, and connection in a supportive setting.
You learn from others. Group members offer insight, encouragement, and perspective that can shift how you see your own journey.
Growth is reinforced. You'll leave each session with practical tools for calming your nervous system, managing difficult emotions, and building resilience.
Our Groups:
Held & Healed:
An ongoing counseling group for women who have experienced sexual trauma
We believe that just as harm happens in relationship, healing happens in relationship too. Held & Healed is a safe, therapeutic community where women who have experienced sexual trauma can be met with compassion, understanding, and care, without having to carry their story alone.
In this group, you'll find space to be seen and heard by women who understand, at a pace that honors your nervous system and your readiness. Together, we gently explore the impact of trauma on the body, mind, relationships, and sense of self, and we practice tools for grounding, safety, and restoration along the way.
When: Every Monday, 6:05–7:35 pm (ongoing)
Where: Restore Counseling & Wellness, 1728 Virginia Beach Blvd., Suite 102, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Facilitators: Allison Picini, MA, LRIC & Patricia M. King, PhD, LPC, RN
Cost: $60 per weekly session (fee-for-service). Sliding scale available.
Getting started: Every member begins with a free prescreening. This helps make sure the group is a good fit for you and your current season of healing. To schedule yours or ask questions, email restorecw@gmail.com or call 757-932-0587.
Story Group at Grace Bible Church:
An 8-week group for engaging your story with honesty, curiosity, and care
Our stories shape how we see ourselves, others, and God. Especially the painful parts of our stories. Story work invites you to slow down and look honestly at the moments that formed you, with curiosity instead of contempt and kindness instead of shame. In a small, guided group, you'll have the chance to share parts of your story and be witnessed by others who are doing the same brave work.
This group is designed for the Grace Bible Church community and is a space to engage your own story more deeply. Because story work often touches on experiences of trauma and abuse, it can be heavy and intense. Participants are asked to have a few trusted people in their lives who can support them through this season.
When: Thursdays, 7:00–8:30 pm
Fall 2026 dates: October 8, 15, 22, 29; November 5, 19; December 3, 10
Where: Grace Bible Church, Lynnhaven Campus, Virginia Beach, VA
Facilitator: Allison Picini, MA, LRIC
Space is limited due to the nature of this group. Interested participants complete a short interest form to help us understand what's bringing you to story work and make sure the group is a good fit.
What to Expect
Small, Intimate Groups
Groups are kept small so every member has room to be heard and to build trust with one another.
Therapist-Led and Trauma-Informed
Each group is facilitated by experienced, licensed clinicians trained in trauma-informed care. Sessions are structured and paced with care, so you're never pushed beyond what feels safe.
A Fit-First Process
Before joining, each person completes a prescreening or interest form. This isn't about screening you out. It's about making sure the group is the right support for where you are right now.
Confidential and Respectful
All members agree to keep what's shared in group private. Together we set clear guidelines so the space feels safe for everyone.
Share at Your Own Pace
You're never required to share more than you're ready to. Listening is a meaningful way to participate, too.
Is Group Counseling Right for Me?
Group counseling can be a great fit if you:
Feel isolated or misunderstood in what you're going through
Want to build on the work you're doing in individual therapy
Are looking for a more affordable option for ongoing support
Want to practice connection, communication, and boundaries in a safe setting
Are ready to learn practical tools for managing anxiety, stress, grief, or trauma
Not sure if group is the right fit? That's okay. We'll talk it through during your prescreening to make sure it's a good match for you and for the group.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
No. You're always in control of what you share. Group focuses on connection, support, and healing, not reliving painful details.
-
Absolutely. Many people find group and individual therapy work beautifully together. If you're working with a therapist outside our practice, we're happy to coordinate care with your permission.
-
Feeling nervous is completely normal. Most group members feel the same way at first. Our therapists create a warm, welcoming environment and help the group build trust from the very first session.
-
Yes. All members agree to keep what's shared in group confidential, and your therapists are bound by the same privacy standards as individual therapy.
-
Groups are fee-for-service, and insurance is not billed for group sessions. Held & Healed is $60 per weekly session, with a sliding scale available.
-
The Story Group is designed for the Grace Bible Church community and meets on their Lynnhaven campus. If you're interested in story work but aren't connected to Grace Bible, reach out. We'd be glad to talk about other options.
-
For Held & Healed, schedule your free prescreening by emailing restorecw@gmail.com or calling 757-932-0587. For the Story Group, complete the interest form above.
You Don't Have to Walk This Road Alone
Healing is possible, and sometimes it begins by sitting in a room with people who understand. We'd be honored to walk with you.