Group Therapy
... is useful for many issues.
Counseling Services has provided a variety of groups over the years, and these groups are available to all registered Pacific students who have paid the health fee. Previous group topics include: undergraduate support, transition for 1st year and transfer students, graduate student support, assertiveness skills, eating disorders/body image, depression, grief, and dissertation support.
... is confidential.
In group therapy everyone shares the responsibility for maintaining confidentiality, including both members and facilitators. This is done out of mutual respect for every individual in the group.
All members will be asked to agree on the terms of confidentiality at the beginning of the first group meeting.
... is an opportunity for growth and change.
Group therapy provides an opportunity for small groups of students to meet and share common concerns, explore personal issues, and learn new skills in a confidential setting under the guidance of group facilitators. It is often encouraging to hear that other people are having a similiar difficulty or have already worked through that difficulty. The shared experience of facilitated group interactions helps promote a trusting, respectful, and inclusive environment where people can feel free to care about and help each other. Through helping others you can also learn to help yourself.
Groups provide a forum in which to express your reactions and share your support for others as well as listen to and reflect on what you are learning from them. A group experience offers a safe environment where you can experiment with new ways of relating to people and expressing yourself. By taking risks you might discover what does or does not work for you.
... can be on-going.
Groups offered through Counseling Services differ in their timeframe. Some groups last throughout the year, while others may be more time-limited. A therapist can let you know what the timeframe is for particular groups, and we ask that you commit to regular attendance. This type of consistency in group therapy is necessary in order to create and maintain a safe environment.
... involves an intial screening.
Your first step is to meet with a therapist for a 15 minute screening. During this screening, the therapist will provide you with information about the expectations and responsibilities of group therapy. Then you will have the opportunity to express your interest in a specific type of group, your own expectations about groups, and any questions you might have. In addition, you will be asked to provide the days and times you would be available to attend a group.
I'm interested. Now what?
If you think you may be interested in joining a group, or if you just want more information on current groups offered, you can contact Counseling Services by phone at 209.946.2315 ext. 2 during business hours, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.
