At Art of Science, our virtual group mental health programs are conducted online, via the Zoom platform. Our programs are specifically designed based on the Be You Better movement. We meet you where you are at, whether you are struggling, tired of the status quo and looking for more, or are trying to achieve your full potential. As a learner, you will work with our licensed clinical psychologists and have access to our supportive peer community, to address needs and integrate desired outcomes into your life well beyond the end of the program.

Virtual group sessions are conducted through a secure video conferencing platform, Zoom. You'll need a device with a camera, microphone, and internet access. Sessions are held at scheduled times, and participants can interact in real-time with the facilitators and other group members.

Yes. All virtual group mental health programs are conducted on a secure, encrypted platform to protect your privacy. Facilitators and participants are expected to maintain confidentiality regarding what is shared in the sessions.

There are many considerations when deciding if a virtual group setting is right for you. A virtual setting allows learners to participate from the comfort of their own home, or anywhere else in the world! It means you don’t have to be somewhere in person on a regular basis over an extended period of time! A group mental health program can be beneficial if you’re looking for a sense of community and support from others experiencing similar challenges and with similar aspirations. Group programs allow for learning from others’ perspectives. We do understand that everyone has a different comfort level with sharing. In our programs, you always have the option of being a quiet observer or an active participant. It's normal to be nervous about starting a group program if you’re new to this. Our clinical psychologists are trained to create a safe, welcoming environment for all participants. Many people find that their anxiety lessens after the first few sessions as they become more comfortable with the group. Please watch this video we’ve made based on our experience, in which we discuss potential concerns and benefits of groups.

At ASP, our programs vary and change over time. Our programs can cover a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress management, grief, relationship challenges, emotion regulation, trauma, workplace burnout, life transitions, weight management, and self-care.

Group sizes can vary, but typically you can generally expect large groups at ASP. This allows for a broader range of perspectives and is best aligned with our mission of providing quality mental health care to as many people as possible. There are times that breakout rooms may be used to allow for smaller group attention. However, participation in breakout rooms is always a choice and you do not need to engage in smaller groups as part of the program.

At ASP, we meet you where you are at! While for some, participation may help you achieve the results you are looking for, for others it may be uncomfortable to share personal experiences. You are welcome to be a quiet observer or an active participant who shares as much or as little as you want to. Our clinical psychologists are experienced group facilitators who will guide the group in a way that ensures everyone feels safe and respected. You can still benefit from listening to others and applying the insights to your own situation.

The length of ASP programs varies, depending on how much content will be covered. Most programs meet at consistent weekly times for a set period, which can be 4-12 weeks. Each session typically lasts 60-120 minutes. You will be informed of the full schedule with dates and times prior to investing in a program to allow you to make an informed decision if this schedule currently fits into your life.

ASP clinical psychologists understand that life happens! If you do miss a session, there are several ways to catch up. While ASP does not supply recorded program sessions for privacy reasons, you can access your supportive peer community for assistance. Our clinical psychologists also facilitate weekly live Q&A sessions to allow for questions about course material and mental health. All programs come with detailed program manuals that you can refer to for information as well.

Ensure you have a quiet, private space to attend the sessions and a reliable internet connection. It's also helpful to approach the group with an open mind, a willingness to engage, silently or actively, and have any materials the facilitator recommends (e.g., a journal, writing utensils, etc.).

Yes, many people find that group programs complement their individual therapy. It's even a good idea to discuss the group program with your therapist to ensure it aligns with your therapeutic goals.

Due to a combination of the complexity of mental health licensing requirements and the mission of ASP, which is to make quality mental health care accessible to everyone, everywhere, ASP programs are not covered by insurance. Clinical psychologists are held to very strict licensing requirements and are not permitted to offer “psychological services” such as therapy in any jurisdiction in which they are not licensed. At ASP, our mission is to offer quality mental health care to everyone, everywhere without the barriers associated with the traditional mental health system. Therefore, our programs are purposely designed to not be called therapy or treatment. While you may experience the same or similar benefits to therapy, ASP programs are educational programs designed to be transformative and help you Be You Better so you can build the life you want, on your own terms! Our programs are self-paced and designed to provide the most service to the most people, which is why they are offered at a fraction of the cost of traditional therapy. Please consult our Investment section of the website for further information.

Group programs allow you to connect with others who are going through similar experiences, providing a sense of community and mutual support. It is also more cost-effective than individual therapy. Additionally, hearing others' perspectives can lead to new insights and coping strategies. Please view our video discussing potential concerns and benefits associated with group programs to help you make an informed decision.

While it might seem challenging at first, many participants find that virtual settings offer the same level of connection as in-person groups. Over time, the shared experiences and support from others in the group create strong bonds. ASP makes additional efforts to facilitate bonding between learners that wish to do so, such as having private social media groups for every program, incorporating breakout rooms, and offering weekly informal live Q&A sessions. Should you have any additional questions that are not answered here, we would love to hear from you! Drop us a message at info@artofsciencepsychologists.com OR fill out the form below.