Group Counseling

Why Group?

Group approaches to personal growth are frequently the most effective way to explore and support changes you may wish to make in your life. The Longwood University Counseling And Psychological Services (CAPS) hosts a variety of groups in which students can gain specific skills and strategies to meet personal goals, explore interpersonal challenges, and gain support and encouragement from other students on campus.

What is Group?

• Groups tend to have 4 to 10 students who meet face-to-face weekly for 60-90 minutes.
• One or more trained professionals assist group members in helping themselves and one another.
• There are many types of groups, and each one is conducted somewhat differently.

How will Group help?

• Some groups focus on personal growth through interpersonal relationships, where much of the learning comes from the interaction of members themselves.
• Other groups focus on building skills and addressing how to control self-defeating thoughts and alter troubling behaviors.
• Others might focus on providing a place for individuals working through similar circumstances to provide support and understanding for one another.

How do I get the most out of Group?

• It is normal to feel nervous when starting a group. You can test the waters while challenging yourself to open up.
• Use the group to "try out" new behaviors and take the opportunity to hear others’ reactions to it.
• Help create a sense of trust and safety by honoring each other’s confidentiality.
• People often have different thoughts about the group after the meeting. It is much more helpful to hold on to those thoughts and discuss them during the next group meeting rather than discussing them outside of group.
• Be honest and direct about your feelings in the moment.
• Listen and contribute. Share the time and the work.
• Commit to attending at least three sessions. The first session can often be intimidating and is not a good gauge of how group will be helpful.

How do I join?

• If you are interested in one of our groups, want more information, or are curious about which group will be the best fit for you, please contact 434.395.2409 or CAPS@longwood.edu. 
• You will have the opportunity to meet with the group co-facilitators before making a decision to commit to a group. They can answer any questions, prepare you for what to expect and how to get the most out of group, and explain the guidelines of that particular group in more detail.

For more information on the different groups available please see our homepage.