Seasonal Depression Group Therapy in Philadelphia

Winter in Philadelphia can bring shorter days, colder weather, and a heaviness that’s hard to name. Many adults notice their energy shift, their motivation drop, or their sense of connection fade — even if they’re not sure whether what they’re experiencing is seasonal depression. This in-person group therapy offers a warm, grounded space to reconnect with yourself and others during the months when isolation and sadness can settle in.

Sessions take place at CFR’s University City office, giving participants a chance to step out of their routines and into a supportive environment built for connection.

Why Seasonal Depression Deserves Care and Attention

Seasonal depression can show up in many ways — low mood, fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, or a desire to withdraw from others. While these experiences are common during winter, they can still feel overwhelming or confusing.

This group is built on the belief that people heal in community. When winter makes it harder to stay connected, having a space to talk openly, reflect, and feel understood can make a meaningful difference. Here, you don’t need a formal diagnosis to belong. If the season feels heavy, you’re welcome.

This group also integrates the strengths of interpersonal process work, which helps participants understand emotional patterns, practice communication skills, and explore how they relate to others. These insights can ease isolation and support more grounded, authentic connection — especially during the winter months when people often feel cut off from their usual supports.

Who This In-Person Philadelphia Group Therapy for Seasonal Depression Is For

This group is designed for adults in the Philadelphia region who may experience:

• Seasonal depression or winter-related sadness
• Loneliness or difficulty staying connected
• Low motivation or persistent fatigue
• Emotional heaviness during the winter
• Barriers to building or maintaining supportive relationships
• A desire for community, routine, or authentic connection

You are welcome whether you have lived with seasonal depression for years or are simply noticing that winter feels harder than it used to.

What to Expect in This Seasonal Depression Group Therapy Experience

This is an interpersonal process group, meaning that connection itself is part of the healing. Each week, participants will have the opportunity to:

• Build insight into emotional patterns
• Strengthen communication skills
• Explore how relationships affect mood and wellbeing
• Practice relating to others with more openness and clarity
• Move through barriers that make connection feel difficult
• Experience warmth, community, and support during a challenging season

The group centers on authenticity, curiosity, and the power of showing up as you are. Ria and Ian will guide the process with care, structure, and attention to emotional safety.

Seasonal Depression Group Therapy Details

• Location: Council for Relationships — University City Office (Philadelphia)
• Format: In-person group therapy
• Begins: February 9, 2026
• Schedule: Mondays from 6:00–7:30 PM for 10 sessions
• Cost: $30 per session
• Eligibility: Adults in the Philadelphia region

All participants will receive additional details after registering.

Ria Alfonso

Ian Kosten

Meet Your Co-Facilitators

This group is co-facilitated by Ria Alfonso and Ian Kosten, two CFR Clinical Interns committed to creating inclusive, compassionate, and meaningful therapeutic spaces. Their collaborative approach supports participants in building connection, developing insight, and finding grounding during a difficult season.

Sessions are supervised by a Licensed CFR Staff Therapist to ensure high-quality care.

Have Questions? Contact Us

If you’re unsure whether seasonal depression is what you’re experiencing, or if you want to talk through whether this group is a good fit, Ria and Ian are happy to connect.

• Ria Alfonso: ralfonso@councilforrelationships.org
• Ian Kosten: ikosten@councilforrelationships.org

Ready to Join? Register for the Group Therapy Program

Complete the form below to reserve your spot for the February 9, 2026 cohort. Space is limited to support a meaningful group experience.