Old Main 540. A counseling group usually is comprised of 6-12 people who meet with a facilitator and talk about what is concerning them most. Some groups focus on a particular topic or issue that the members have in common, such as developing assertiveness or coping with depression. Other groups are open for discussion of any issue or concern a member brings.
Members listen to each other and openly express thoughts and feelings about their concerns.
Interactions among members gives each an opportunity to increase understanding, to discover that others share their feelings, and to try out new ideas and behaviors in a supportive environment. Through interaction with others, members can develop awareness of the effects their behavior has on others. The group provides a safe and supportive environment in which to give and receive honest feedback from one another. A group values and nurtures the kind of honesty that can be rare elsewhere. Members also draw on each other's experiences and successes.