
Group Therapy for Children and Families

Group Therapy for Children and Families
Supportive Group Sessions
At Starleaf Psychological Services, located in Pasadena and serving families throughout Los Angeles County, Dr. Jade Starleaf offers a range of group therapy programs designed to support children and families facing various social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. With over ten years of experience, Dr. Starleaf facilitates dynamic and supportive group environments where participants can connect with others, learn valuable coping skills, and experience a sense of community.
Group therapy provides a unique opportunity for individuals to share their experiences, gain new perspectives, and practice interpersonal skills in a safe and structured setting. Dr. Starleaf carefully designs and leads each group to address specific needs, fostering growth, resilience, and positive change for both children and their families.
Why Choose Group Therapy with Dr. Jade Starleaf?
- Experienced Facilitator: Dr. Starleaf is a skilled and compassionate group leader with extensive experience in working with children and families.
- Targeted Programs: Groups are carefully designed to address specific challenges, such as social skills deficits, anxiety management, parenting strategies, and support for specific diagnoses (e.g., ADHD, ASD).
- Peer Support and Connection: Group therapy offers a powerful opportunity to connect with others facing similar difficulties, reducing feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of belonging.
- Cost-Effective: Group therapy can be a more affordable option compared to individual therapy while still providing significant therapeutic benefits.
- Skill Development: Participants learn and practice valuable social, emotional, and communication skills in a supportive environment.

Why Choose Group Therapy with Dr. Jade Starleaf?
- Experienced Facilitator: Dr. Starleaf is a skilled and compassionate group leader with extensive experience in working with children and families.
- Targeted Programs: Groups are carefully designed to address specific challenges, such as social skills deficits, anxiety management, parenting strategies, and support for specific diagnoses (e.g., ADHD, ASD).
- Peer Support and Connection: Group therapy offers a powerful opportunity to connect with others facing similar difficulties, reducing feelings of isolation and fostering a sense of belonging.
- Cost-Effective: Group therapy can be a more affordable option compared to individual therapy while still providing significant therapeutic benefits.
- Skill Development: Participants learn and practice valuable social, emotional, and communication skills in a supportive environment.

Types of Group Therapy Offered
Dr. Starleaf offers various group therapy programs tailored to different age groups and needs, which may include:
- Social Skills Groups for Children and Adolescents: Focusing on improving communication, cooperation, problem-solving, and peer interactions.
- Anxiety Management Groups for Children and Teens: Teaching coping strategies for managing worry, fear, and social anxiety.
- Parenting Skills Groups: Providing parents with evidence-based techniques for effective communication, setting boundaries, and managing challenging behaviors.
- Support Groups for Families of Children with Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Creating a space for sharing experiences, resources, and support for families navigating the complexities of conditions like ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
- Specific Issue-Focused Groups: Addressing topics such as grief and loss, anger management, or building self-esteem.
Please contact Starleaf Psychological Services for current group offerings and schedules in the Pasadena and Los Angeles County area.
What to Expect from Group Therapy Sessions
Group therapy sessions with Dr. Starleaf typically involve:
- Structured Activities: Engaging in activities and discussions designed to promote learning and interaction.
- Skill-Building Exercises: Practicing specific social, emotional, or communication skills.
- Sharing and Support: Opportunities to share experiences and receive support from peers and the facilitator.
- Psychoeducation: Learning about relevant topics and strategies related to the group’s focus.
- Confidentiality: Maintaining a safe and confidential environment for all participants.
Benefits of Group Therapy for Children and Families
- Reduced feelings of isolation
- Increased self-awareness and understanding
- Development of new coping skills
- Improved communication and social skills
- Enhanced problem-solving abilities
- Opportunities to learn from others’ experiences
- Increased sense of hope and empowerment
- Strengthening of family relationships (in family-focused groups)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the benefits of group therapy compared to individual therapy?
Group therapy offers unique benefits such as peer support, the opportunity to learn from others’ experiences, and a chance to practice social skills in a safe environment. It can also be more cost-effective.
Is group therapy appropriate for my child or family?
Group therapy can be beneficial for a wide range of issues. Dr. Starleaf will conduct an initial assessment to determine if a particular group is a good fit for your child’s or family’s needs.
How are the groups structured?
Groups are typically small and led by Dr. Starleaf. They often involve structured activities, discussions, and skill-building exercises tailored to the group’s focus and age range.
How is confidentiality maintained in group therapy?
Confidentiality is a crucial aspect of group therapy. Participants are expected to respect the privacy of others and keep shared information within the group. Dr. Starleaf will discuss confidentiality guidelines with all group members.
How do I find out about current group offerings and schedules?
Please contact Starleaf Psychological Services directly for the most up-to-date information on current group therapy programs for children and families in the Pasadena and Los Angeles County area.
Ready to get started?
If you are interested in exploring the benefits of group therapy for your child or family in the Pasadena or Los Angeles County area, Dr. Jade Starleaf at Starleaf Psychological Services can provide more information about current group offerings and help determine if group therapy is the right choice for you. Contact us today to learn more and take the first step towards connection and growth.