Groups & Workshops Explained
Groups offer long-term processing, support or skills-based counseling, while workshops offer single or multi-session, class-like forums.
Types of Groups
- Process groups offer open exploration, processing and discussion on various topics.
- Skills-based groups build skills to help improve one’s life (e.g., coping skills, self-compassion, etc.).
- Support groups provide peer support and community from others who hold similar identities or life experiences.
Types of Workshops
- Regular workshops are single-session events offering information about common mental health concerns and tangible coping skills and strategies.
- Advanced workshops are multi-session events offering more detailed information about common mental health concerns, how symptoms can be triggered and tangible ways to cope with symptoms.
FAQ
What should I expect when attending group counseling?
Group counseling provides an opportunity to improve personal, emotional and behavioral skills, develop increased confidence, overcome blocks to personal effectiveness and acquire a keener awareness and appreciation of interactions with others.
In a group setting, a group of peers and co-facilitators meet to provide feedback and support for self-improvement. Group members are encouraged to explore and express feelings, examine belief systems, reflect on and receive feedback about patterns of behavior and work toward making healthy changes. For group counseling to be effective, active participation is encouraged. Participation involves regular attendance, as your schedule allows, and respectful, honest communication. Groups may focus on a specific topic or may be general with a particular emphasis.
I don’t want to sign up for counseling, but I want to attend a group or workshop. What do I do?
You do not have to be a counseling client to attend many of our groups or workshops. However, group screenings are required for certain groups to ensure a desired group matches the participant’s needs and interests.
Please complete the Groups/Workshops Interest Form to get started and note the groups and/or workshops you’d like to attend. The Groups & Workshops Coordinator will reach out to you with with more information on next steps to join the group/workshop.
I don’t want anyone to know I’m attending a group. Is my attendance confidential?
Client attendance and rosters are mandated to be kept confidential by the mental health staff within the Student Counseling Center and, provided that clients are 18+, not accessible to anyone else except with a client’s direct consent and/or in case of legal obligation (like a subpoena) or concerns about safety or risk of harm. Obviously, all attendees will be aware of each other, so members are expected to keep what’s shared in group private. However, confidentiality cannot be guaranteed because the group setting involves multiple participants. You can always choose how much to share and wait until you feel comfortable and safe before discussing more personal topics.
What if I can’t attend every week or stay for the whole time?
You may attend workshops and groups as your schedule allows. When possible and as a courtesy, please communicate with your facilitator in advance if you cannot attend or need to leave early.
The group I would really like to attend is not offered this semester. What should I do?
Please fill out our Groups & Workshops Interest form for information about future offerings, to be notified when we offer a group you’re interested in, or to suggest something you’d like to see us offer. You may also email our Groups & Workshops Coordinator at sccgroups@utdallas.edu.
How can I suggest an idea for a new group or workshop?
Please fill out our Groups & Workshops Interest form to let us know your ideas!
Contact Us
Groups & Workshops Coordinator
sccgroups@utdallas.edu
Accessibility & Accommodation Questions
counselingcenter@utdallas.edu
Please fill out our Groups & Workshops Interest form to:
- Receive more information about groups and workshops.
- Be notified when we offer a group or workshop you’re interested in.
- Suggest something you’d like to see us offer.