Support Groups

A workshop is a series of seminars focused on a particular topic. The seminars generally can be attended one at a time, though they are designed to be sequential in order. A seminar might consist of some psychoeducation around a specific or focused topic followed by a skills demonstration or discussion. It is not a space to process individual concerns with the large group, though attendees are welcome to share appropriately. It is encouraged to let staff know you are interested in attending, though walk-in attendees are welcome and encouraged as well. It can be a great way to begin a therapeutic journey and experience Counseling and Wellness without a great deal of commitment to attendance.

Group counseling, like individual counseling, is intended to help students constructively address personal and/or interpersonal concerns and/or problems.

Research has shown that group counseling is equally effective as individual counseling. For certain concerns and/or problems (e.g., social anxiety, interpersonal problems) group counseling can be even more effective than individual counseling.

There is evidence for the effectiveness of group counseling for the following issues:

Anxiety
Depression
Poor self-esteem and lack of self-confidence
Stress management
Traumatic experience

PsychoeducatIonal — A psychoeducational group is to help improve knowledge and understanding of certain topics/issues pertinent to emotional wellness. (e.g. Self Depression screening)

Skills training — A skills training group is to help learn skills and techniques that help with overall well-being. (e.g. stress reduction techniques)

Support— A support group provides a platform for students with a common interest to provide and receive emotional support and problem-solving advice in a safe space. (e.g. Students of Color Support Group) 

*Psychoeducational and skills training groups also fall under the category of support group

Counseling and Wellness offers trimester-based group counseling. Groups therefore meet 8–12 times each trimester. Students, however, are welcomed to stay in a group more than one trimester. Some students stay for a semester and some continue for a year or more. Each group session is typically 90 minutes long.