Individuals with anxiety disorders often feel isolated and misunderstood. They may think that no one else can relate to their difficulties and symptoms. These thoughts and feelings can lead to increased avoidance, feelings of hopelessness, and even depression.

In reality, anxiety disorders are the most frequent mental health disorders in the U.S. Many individuals with anxiety disorders find acceptance, understanding, and renewed motivation and commitment by participating in a support group designed specifically for people with anxiety. A support group can be a valuable adjunct to psychotherapy or counseling. It also can be a valuable resource for people who are not currently receiving professional therapy.

The Anxiety and Agoraphobia Treatment Center is pleased to sponsor Support groups for adults and therapy groups for kids, teens and parents

Our SUPPORT GROUPS have met every other week for many years. These groups are for adults 18 years or older. There is no charge for participation. All support groups currently are being conducted virtually, via Google Meet.

Our CHILD, ADOLESCENT and PARENT GROUPS are both psychologist-led therapy groups that meet for a set number of sessions. There is a charge for participation. Our child/adolescent group meets in person while our parent group is virtual.

Anxiety and Panic Support Group (FREE)

This is a free therapist-facilitated support group for individuals experiencing any of a variety of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, agoraphobia, social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and specific fears and phobias. Participants are encouraged to discuss anxiety-related concerns, difficulties, personal goals, progress, and successes. The therapist offers support, information and education about anxiety disorders and suggestions for ways to address anxiety problems. The group atmosphere is informal, supportive, and nonjudgmental. Participants are encouraged to identify personally meaningful goals to work on between group sessions.

The group meets virtually every other Monday evening from 7:00pm to 8:30pm. We do not meet on major holidays. Individuals who are interested in joining this group are asked to first call 610-667-6490 or reach out via our contact form to set up a brief phone screening. There may be a wait list for new members.

Anxiety & Panic Group Dates for 2025:

1/20/25

2/3/25

2/17/25

3/3/25

3/17/25

3/31/25

4/14/25

4/28/25

5/12/25

5/26/25

6/9/25

6/23/25

OCD GOALS Support Group (FREE)

Our free OCD GOALS Support Group has been sponsored by our center for more than 20 years. This group is designed specifically for individuals with OCD and OCD spectrum disorders, including compulsive hoarding. One of AATC’s therapists facilitates each group. The meeting typically begins with group discussion of a question or topic suggested by the therapist. The focus then switches to discussions focusing on individualized goal planning, progress toward these goals, and troubleshooting when a member is experiencing difficulty progressing on goals. The group atmosphere is informal, supportive, and nonjudgmental.

The OCD Support Group meets virtually every other Monday evening from 7:00-8:30 pm. We do not meet on major holidays. Individuals who are interested in joining this group are asked to call 610-667-6490 or reach out via our contact form to set up a brief phone screening. There may be a wait list for new members.

OCD GOALS GROUP 2025 dates:

1/27/25

2/10/25

2/24/25

3/10/25

3/24/25

4/7/25

4/21/25

5/5/25

5/19/25

6/2/25

6/16/25

6/30/25

OCD “FOCUS” Support Group for Family and Friends (FREE)

The ongoing FOCUS support group is open to family members and friends of individuals who have OCD. It is facilitated by one or more non-professional long-term members of the group. Dr. Jerry O’Brien attends this group from time to time to offer education about OCD, how this disorder may affect other people, and suggestions for dealing with the OCD sufferer and one’s own feelings and reactions to this frequently challenging condition.

The Family & Friends Support Group currently is meeting virtually, via Zoom. Meetings are held on Wednesdays on which the OCD GOALS group does not meet. Family members and friends may attend this support group whether or not the OCD client comes to the OCD GOALS Support Group.

If you have questions or you are interested in joining the FOCUS Group, please email: [email protected]

GROUPS FOR KIDS, TEENS, AND PARENTS

GROUP FOR KIDS AND TEENS WITH AVOIDANT RESTRICTIVE EATING (ARFID):

AATC is pleased to offer a 6-8 week, in-person group for children and teens with Avoidant/Restrictive Eating Disorder (ARFID) led by Dr. Jessica Harpel. Participants will learn strategies and tools to conquer ARFID and engage in gradual food-based exposures. Parents will be educated as to how to best support their child’s progress. Participants do not need to have a previous diagnosis of ARFID to participate. We are taking names and new groups form often. Please reach out via our contact form for more information.

GROUP FOR PARENTS OF ANXIOUS CHILDREN:

AATC is pleased to offer a virtual group for parents of children and teens with all types of anxiety. This is a 4 week group in which parents learn effective strategies to help support their anxious child. The group is appropriate for parents of children and teens ages 4-18. Please reach out via our contact form for more information.