Group Counseling


 Student Counseling Services offers group therapy providing an inclusive and innovative environment for students to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors with others experiencing similar life events. This allows students to become engaged with one another and address their overall health and wellness, which aids in their lifelong development as individuals as they integrate into their respective communities.


Leo & Una participating in group counseling

Group counseling is one of our primary clinical services. For many students, group therapy is the most effective and appropriate treatment option.

Group counseling is a unique opportunity available to students in need of a supportive environment. It allows students to hear multiple perspectives and receive encouragement and feedback from peers in a safe and confidential environment. These interpersonal interactions deepen self-awareness and help members learn new ways of relating to others. While some of our groups focus primarily on deepening this understanding of self and others, we also have groups that focus on specific concerns and skill development.

There is no limit to the number of group therapy sessions available to students. Getting started with group counseling begins with an initial evaluation, or intake appointment. You and your counselor will discuss if group counseling is the appropriate form of treatment. Your counselor will also provide information about our groups so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. Groups meet weekly for 60-90 minutes. There are typically 5-12 students in each group and 1-2 group leaders.

“I will be forced to tell all of my deepest thoughts and feelings to the group.”

You control what, how much, and when you share with the group. Most individuals find that they feel safe enough to share their concerns with the group, and the group setting can be very helpful and affirming. Share what you are ready to share. Listening to others may also help, as some of what they say might apply to you.


“Group Counseling will take longer than individual counseling because I will have to share the time with others.”

Group counseling can often be more efficient than individual counseling. As a participant in a group, you can benefit from the group even during sessions when you say little if you listen carefully to others. You will find that you have a lot in common with other group members. As they work on a concern, you will learn more about yourself and can apply that information to your own situation.


“Group counseling is second-best to individual counseling.”

If a group referral is provided, it is because the clinician believes that it is an effective method to address your concerns. Not everyone is appropriate for group treatment. There are numerous presenting concerns that are more effectively addressed in group work than individual counseling.


“I have difficulty talking to people, I’ll never be able to share in a group.”

Most individuals are anxious about the idea of sharing their thoughts and feelings with others, but within a few sessions, most participants find that they do feel comfortable talking in the group. Becoming comfortable speaking with others in a safe, group setting may help your relationships with others, and benefit other aspects of your life as well.

I'm Fine aims to provide students with a safe place to explore being "fine" while juggling various life roles and responsibilities. "I'm Fine" is an open group that also seeks to encourage students to discover and utilize their skills and resources to manage "everyday" stressors and anxiety. 
WHEN: Every THURSDAY starting at 3:30pm
WHERE: Student Counseling Services Group Room (1st Floor of Rice Hall)

Huddle is a student-athlete small group designed to help athletes train beyond practice and performance. Huddle is an open group that provides athletes with a safe space to share experiences, enhance understanding, and develop strategies to champion mental well-being and resilience within the student-athlete experience.

WHEN: 1st & 3rd Mondays FEBRUARY-APRIL starting at 7:00pm
WHERE: Flowers Hall in the Hospitality Suite
Connect provides students a safe, therapeutic environment to identify concerns and receive feedback on interpersonal relationships through enhancing personal understanding, exploring social connections, and developing skills needed to cultivate positive, healthy relationships.
WHEN: Every Monday in FEBRUARY starting at 3:30pm
WHERE: Student Counseling Services Group Room (1st Floor of Rice Hall)

Finish strong aims to provide students with a safe therapeutic space to focus on self-care, mindfulness, and other relevant topics to cope with end of semester stressors and finish the academic semester strong.

WHEN: Every Monday in APRIL starting at 3:30pm
WHERE: Student Counseling Services Group Room (1st Floor of Rice Hall)
  1. What is said in group, stays in group.
  2. Be respectful & listen.
  3. Speak up with "oops" or "ouch" to reduce miscommunication.
  4. Participate (but know that you can always pass).
  5. No technology (unless approved for an activity/accomodation). 

Leo & Una reviewing group rules