Group and Workshop Services

As of March 18, all mental health services are being provided via telebehavioral health service modalities (secure video conference or telephone sessions). No students or clients will be seen in-person at the UCI Counseling Center on-campus location. At this time we are only able to provide services to students who are in the state of California due to state laws and regulations.

If you wish to initiate services, please call us for appointment information and availability. Please call us at 949-824-6457 to speak to one of our front office staff members who will assist in setting you up for telebehavioral health services.  

Group Therapy 

Research shows that group therapy is one of the most effective and efficient tools for addressing concerns common to people seeking counseling services. A significant benefit of group therapy includes not feeling as alone since others in the group will likely have experienced similar concerns. Most participants, though somewhat apprehensive at first, report that the group experience was helpful far beyond their expectations. 

What can I expect from being in drop-in/support groups?
Support groups are spaces where people with similar concerns can encourage, understand, validate, and comfort one another. Support groups do not emphasize dynamics occurring between members, nor do they emphasize change. Our drop-in/support groups do not require contact or screenings with the Counseling Center.  These are open-ended and are availble to students to join at their leisure. 

What can I expect from being in therapy groups?
Therapy groups go beyond providing a space for sharing feedback and support. They encourage participants to deepen multiple perspectives, practice skills, experiment new behaviors, and learn how to have more satisfying relationships. Interpersonal dynamics occurring between members may be emphasized, often leading to enhanced personal growth. 

In order to participate in group therapy services you will need to complete an Initial Assessment appointment with the Counseling Center. You can inform the Iniatial Assessment clinician that you are interseted in therapy groups. Your Initial Assessment therapist may also suggest or refer you to group based on your presenting concerns and treatment needs and/or goals. After you have completed an initial assessment and have been referred to a group you will complete a Group Screening with the leader(s) of the group. This is a brief appointment to help the leader(s) learn more about you and to inform you about what you can expect from group therapy. 

Due to the Counseling Center operating remotely, group therapy services will be offered via telebehavioral videoconferencing for the Winter 2021 quarter. At this time only currently enrolled UCI students who are currently located in the state of California will be able to participate in group therapy services.

For a list of our current group (drop-in/support and therapy group) listings please see information listed below. 

Group Therapy and Common Myths
 “I will be forced to tell my secrets to the group or do something I don’t want to.”

• You control what, how often, and when you share with the group

 “Group therapy is less effective than individual therapy.”

• Group therapy is as effective as individual therapy. You can learn from other’s experiences and support each other.

 “It is too difficult to get groups organized in a quarter system.”

• Time limited groups have increased efficiency of group work, and often more appropriate for college students who are in the quarter system. Groups are often the most effective method to treat concerns that university students are facing.

“My problems are not as bad as others, or they are worse than others.”

•  Students benefit from knowing that they are not alone in situations, regardless of what they are struggling with. While supporting others, you are also improving yourself. Additionally, you will be supported when you need it

“People outside of the group will hear what I discussed.”

• Members of the group are highly encouraged to maintain the privacy of other group members. Only the group leaders are bound to confidentiality.

Workshop Services

Workshops are offered routinly through the UCI Counseling Center. Workshops can be a great place for students to learn about skills, information, and resources around a variety of topics. Workshops also allow students who may feel isolated, disconnected, or alone to connect with others in a non-clinical setting.

The great thing about our workshop services is that no prior contact or screenings with the Counseling Center is required to attend these drop-in workshops.  Just go to the workshop of your choice and click on the listed zoom link to connect to the online workshop (Workshops are being conducted via a HIPAA compliant zoom). You can attend multiple workshops through out the quarter.  

Due to the Counseling Center operating remotely, group therapy services will be offered via telebehavioral videoconferencing for the Winter 2021 quarter. Workshops are intended for currently enrolled UCI students who are currently located in the state of California. See the full listing of virtual Workshop Series below. We hope to see you soon! 

Please note, workshops begin 5 minutes after the start time listed below and are closed 10 minutes past start time. 

Fall 2021 Virtual Workshop Series and Group Therapy Listings

Workshops, Drop-in Groups, and Therapy Groups are intended for currently enrolled students who are currently located in the state of California. For more information about Counseling Center Workshops and Therapy Groups, please contact the Counseling Center at (949) 824-6457.