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Group Counseling

A group is generally composed of five to ten group members and one to two group leaders. These people come together to discuss similar topics or concerns. Counseling centers often offer several different types of groups, including therapy, support, or educational groups. While these group are similar in many ways, they differ with regard to the topics being discussed and the job of the group leader. In a therapy group, the group leader encourages the interaction of group members while they discuss concerns about how they relate to other people or various problems they may be experiencing. A support group is often centered around one topic, such as difficult relationships or loss of a loved one, and while the leader does facilitate discussion, the interaction is more lead by the group members. A group which is topic centered, in which the group leader provides information and then facilitates discussion, is often called an educational group. Groups about how to stop smoking, substance abuse prevention, or stress management may be considered educational groups.

In all of these groups it is the responsibility of the group leader(s) and members to create a safe, trusting, confidential environment in which people may disclose information and that information remains among the members of the group. Group members take responsibility for their situation by discussing their concerns when they feel comfortable. Members are also encouraged to give feedback to others by expressing their feelings about what someone says or does. Interaction between group members is highly encouraged and provides each person an opportunity to try out new ways of behaving and to learn more about the way they interact with others.

Groups are beneficial because they provide members an opportunity to receive and give support, and to consider and practice alternative behaviors. The group also allows a person to develop new social techniques or ways of relating to people. Third, when in a group, people begin to see that they are not alone and can be helped. It is often encouraging to hear that other people have a similar difficulty or have already worked through a problem that deeply disturbs another group member. Finally, in a climate of trust, people feel free to care about and help each other. Through helping others, one also learns about, and helps oneself.

What groups are currently being offered at the Butler University Counseling and Consultation Services?

Living with Loss

• The passing away of someone close, such as a parent, friend, family member or partner, can lead to unresolved grief, sadness, fear, anger and isolation. This group addresses how to manage loss and these feelings in a supportive, nonjudgmental environment.

General Therapy Group

• This group is for a variety of presenting concerns, such as depression or anxiety, that are linked to interpersonal struggles in some way.  This group is a great place to try out new behaviors and make progress on personal behavior change goals.

Appetite for Life

• This group is for individuals who struggle with issues related to food, body image, over exercise, and obsessive thoughts about food and weight loss. A safe space will be provided for people who share similar difficulties to gain support and understanding of what contributes to eating and body image challenges along with learning coping strategies to help manage stress, relationships, and self-esteem difficulties.

 How do I join a group?

If you are interested in becoming a member of a group, please contact CCS at (317) 940-9385 to schedule a time to meet with a counselor to talk about your needs and how a group might benefit you.