Groups

Every quarter, the Counseling Center offers a variety of different groups. In group therapy, you can count on the expertise of the counselors who facilitate the group, and you can also get to know other students who are experiencing similar issues as you. Our therapy groups are designed to facilitate connection, promote personal growth and self-understanding, and build resilience. A common theme for group participants is wanting to learn how to change thinking, feelings, and/or behavior to feel better about themselves and cope more effectively with life. Now more than ever, it’s so important that we find ways to connect with others and remind ourselves that we’re not alone. 

Types of Groups

Support Group
Members in similar circumstances can share in an open and unedited fashion. Support groups allow members to find self-acceptance as they are; these groups validate and normalize each person’s experience. They are a place for encouragement from other group members and group facilitators.
Process Group
The power of process groups lies in the unique opportunity to receive multiple perspectives, support, and feedback from other individuals in a safe and confidential environment. Process groups are typically 5-10 members and are generally unstructured; the primary focus of therapy is on the interactions among group members. Discussion flows according to what members would like to talk about — the group leaders do not, for the most part, assign topics for discussion. Members are encouraged to give support and feedback to others while also working with their own reactions to feedback that is received. These interactions can provide group members an opportunity to deepen their self-awareness and to learn how they relate with others.
Skills Group
Group members have the opportunity to learn and develop their abilities in a particular realm of mental health. These groups are geared toward empowering students to better cope and care for themselves and are often experiential.

Interested in Joining?

If interested in joining a group, call (360) 650-3164 to schedule an initial phone consultation with the group facilitator who will recommend whether the group could be of benefit to you. Most groups start near the beginning of the quarter, so be sure you call within the first few weeks of classes. If a group has already started, you can ask to be placed on a waiting list for next quarter. Please note some groups require a counseling intake before joining. If this is the case for your group, the facilitator will schedule the intake appointment with you during your consultation. Joining a Counseling Center group can be incredibly beneficial, however you must commit to attending the group each week of the quarter! Please consider if this is a reasonable commitment for you.

Questions?

If you need any more information, please email Gabrielle Hope-Foucault, LMHC, Coordinator of Groups Program.