Groups for IUP Students
Sometimes a problem is better addressed through group counseling than with an individual counselor. Research has shown that group counseling is as effective as individual counseling. Talking with other students who have similar experiences provides support and perspective. The following counseling, support, and growth groups are examples of groups offered at the Counseling Center. These groups usually include four to nine students and are facilitated by one or two therapists. Group facilitators work to provide a safe, confidential environment where members are free to discuss their thoughts, feelings, and concerns as they are comfortable. Participation in these groups requires an initial meeting with the group facilitator(s), usually thirty to forty-five minutes.
To schedule this meeting, or to ask questions: contact the Counseling Center at 724-357-2621, stop by G-31 Suites on Maple East, or contact Dennis LaLonde Jr, M.A., at D.G.LaLonde@iup.edu.
The following groups still have openings but will close to new members after the first group meeting. See below for beginning dates and times.
Women’s Group…Finding Your Way:
This is a small group of seven to eight members. The group provides a place for IUP women to come together and provide support for each other. Group members have the opportunity to discuss common concerns such as academics, relationships, families, body image, self-esteem, and other issues that group members deem important. Finding Your Way is a place of growth and support where women discover and use their strengths.
*Facilitated by Elizabeth Kincade, Ph.D., and Harmony Sullivan, M.A.
Tuesdays 3:30–4:45 (begin 9/29/09)
Men’s Group…
This group is for male students to explore what it means to be a college-aged man. Developing and holding onto healthy friendships and relationships, family issues, societal expectations, and dealing with societal pressures are themes that are likely to be discussed. This will be a small group (six to eight members), with a focus on self-awareness and personal change.
*Facilitated by Eric Rosenberger, Ph.D., and Dennis LaLonde, Jr., M.A.
Tuesdays 10:00–11:30
Graduate Student Group…
A support-oriented group, topics of discussion are likely to include the demands of graduate study, anxieties about competition and career, self-care and coping, support for writing a thesis or dissertation, student/faculty relationships and boundaries, and healthy interpersonal relating within the stressful context of graduate study.
*Facilitated by Kim Weiner, Ph.D.
TBD
Interpersonal Group…
This co-ed student group will focus on relationships (family, friends, dating, and professional). Loneliness, lack of confidence in social settings, self-esteem concerns, and anxiety may also be discussed. Members often learn to be more comfortable with themselves and more confident interacting with others. This group is a safe place to explore how current interpersonal styles may be affecting relationships.
*Facilitated by Tina Rose, M.A., and Cody Duckworth, M.A.
Mondays 10:00–11:30
Hope and Healing Group…
This is a support group for women who have experienced sexual assault. It is intended to offer a nonthreatening opportunity for survivors to share all or part of their story, hear others, and begin the healing process. Support is crucial for getting beyond the trauma. The group is free and confidential and will last for five weeks beginning on October 16. Please call 724-357-2621 for additional information. This group is offered through the Haven Project, in coordination with the Counseling Center.
*Facilitated by Christine Butler, M.A., and Katrina Simpson-McCleary, Psy.D.
TBD
