DQ 1.1: The Beginning Stage
Just as you have been assigned to a section of this course, many group participants have little or no choice about who the other members of their group will be. Similar to here, some participants will know each other while others are completely new to the group. Some may have previous exposure to counselling groups (so come to the group with an understanding of the process); others don’t. Use this forum to introduce yourself to the group, share your learning goals for this course, and identify whether your primary focus as a counsellor will involve working with children, teens, or adults. As the unit progresses share your observations about responses and contributions that keep the conversation going, facilitating group safety and rapport. Looking ahead to facilitating your own groups in Units 4 or 5, what can you do in the Beginning Stage of your group to ensure that your group will be built on a solid foundation?
DQ 1.2: Introduction to Group Counselling
From your readings and personal experience, use this forum to discuss the purpose of group counselling vs. individual counselling (i.e., if both options were available, when might you recommend a group and why?). Within the textbook, “clarity of purpose . . . [is considered] the most important aspect of group leading” (p. 57). Thinking ahead to your practicum and beyond, what types of groups do you anticipate leading? Why will it be important to be crystal clear from the beginning about the purpose of each group?
Aside from your contributions to this discussion, also add to the “Types of Groups” Wiki – let’s see if we can list 100 different group topics and/or approaches.
Reference
Jacobs, E. E., Schimmel, C. J., Masson, R. L. L., & Harvill, R. L. (2016). Group counseling: Strategies and skills (8th ed.). Cengage Learning. p. 57.
