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

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.

 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

Group members report gaining satisfaction, meaning, and a sense of connection by hearing others struggles and successes. Participating in group can help you learn to sit with others who are suffering, as well as increase tolerance of your own suffering, in a way that is compassionate and helpful. Hearing other’s experience can also be uplifting, provide hope and inspiration, and provide relief as you recognize that you are not alone.

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

Most therapy groups only have 7-9 members. Group members are often surprised by the material they can cover in group or how their concerns are being addressed even when others are speaking. Recognizing how your own experiences may be related or how you can connect with another member can also help you to learn from others and to facilitate personal growth.

Students report that groups look very different when compared to how they are portrayed on TV. The group facilitators strive to be dynamic, creative, and respectful.

Although it’s common to feel uncomfortable when sharing with people you don’t know, most students find that their level of comfort and willingness to talk increases as the group progresses. In fact, students who have been attending group sessions start to look forward to them because they feel connected to other members, and they start to feel a sense of pride and confidence as they build new skills.  Being able to learn to express yourself in any setting, when you choose to, is empowering and liberating.

You are not asked to be in a group with someone that you already know or are not comfortable with. The facilitators can help you explore the extent of the relationship and make adjustments as needed. We will work with you to find the best fit and solution for your level of safety and comfort.

People who have found a social group or organization to be painful or harmful in the past may find this is to be a great opportunity to heal from these experiences. Many have used the group as a way to create more positive experiences and have benefited from the opportunity to feel valued, accepted, and validated by others. Group members frequently report an increased sense of understanding and acceptance and find that other group members can often relate to them about concerns they felt were uniquely their own.

We encourage you to discuss your concerns in the group – namely things that are or are not working. Having these discussions can often be a turning point in the group where you can more effectively work to improve your experience. If you continue to feel your needs are not being met, we can work with you to explore other options.