Evidence-Based Group Therapy in Cedar Rapids
Research shows group treatment can equal or outperform individual therapy for mood, anxiety and substance-use disorders. With peers who “get it,” you’ll practice new skills in real time and feel less alone. That is what our support groups for depression are designed to do.
Depression/Anxiety Intensive Outpatient Group
This is the highest level of care that we offer, designed for adults with moderate to severe mood and anxiety disorders. Group members are typically people who are struggling to make progress in individual therapy and are experiencing symptoms that disrupt their ability to work, go to school, care for themselves, and enjoy relationships but who are stable enough to not require hospitalization or residential placement.
​
​This is a small support group of up to 8 individuals with two or three therapists at all times. Members discuss current issues and receive support from staff and other group members. We also spend time learning skills and techniques that can improve your situation.
​
-
Meets 3 days each week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday)
-
Meetings are 3 hours per day (9:00am to 12:00pm) with breaks.
Depression/Anxiety Therapy Group
The Depression/Anxiety Therapy Group is a less intensive group designed for individuals who don’t need intensive outpatient treatment but still desire some level of social interaction a support group provides. It is similar in format and structure to the intensive outpatient group.
​
-
Meets twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
-
Meeting are 1 hour per day (4:00pm to 5:00pm).
How to Join Depression/Anxiety Group Therapy in Iowa at North Star Psych Center
At North Star Psych Center, joining an anxiety-focused group therapy program in Iowa is simple and personalized. We know how overwhelming it can feel to reach out for support — especially when anxiety is calling the shots. That’s why we make the process straightforward and supportive from the very first step.
​
Here’s how to get started:
​
-
Call the office to schedule an intake session with the program lead
We’ll help determine which group is the best fit for your needs, symptoms, schedule, and comfort level.
-
Complete intake paperwork prior to being scheduled
Once scheduled, intake paperwork is sent ahead of time to gather a brief clinical history, presenting concerns, and relevant background information
​ -
Attend the individual intake session
During the session, the group lead assesses fit for group therapy, discusses goals, reviews expectations, and determines which group (if any) is the best match​.
-
Group placement
If group therapy is appropriate, the client is offered placement in the recommended group and provided with scheduling details and next steps.
-
Ongoing support and follow-up
Your clinician will support you throughout the process so you never feel lost or alone.
​​
Are anxiety groups right for you?
If you’re experiencing panic, chronic worry, social anxiety, rumination, or the kind of daily tension that’s starting to run your life, group therapy can provide relief, connection, and practical tools — often sooner than individual therapy alone.
​
​
FAQ: Anxiety Group Therapy in Iowa
Do I need a diagnosis to join an anxiety therapy group?
No. Many people attend because they’re overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck in anxious patterns — not because they’ve been formally diagnosed.
Is group therapy as effective as individual therapy for anxiety?
Research shows that group therapy can be equally effective for many anxiety disorders and is often more supportive due to shared experiences.
How long are anxiety groups?
After Care Program​
-
Meets twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays)
-
Meeting are 1 hour per day (3:00pm to 4:00pm).
​​
Depression/Anxiety Intensive Outpatient Group​
-
Meets 3 days each week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday)
-
Meetings are 3 hours per day (9:00am to 12:00pm) with breaks.