Group Therapy

The special emphasis in group therapy will focus on the following areas:

• Increasing knowledge of group theory and practice: Through reading selected chapters and articles, trainees will become familiar with various theories in group therapy (e.g., interpersonal, modern analytic, existential, cognitive-behavioral) and development (e.g., formation, initial, transition, working) and the different types of interventions within these theories (e.g., bridging, contracting, interpersonal feedback, working with resistance). Trainees will also become familiar with the research that supports group therapy and understand the distinct advantages of group therapy compared with other types of treatment.
• Experience establishing, facilitating and maintaining a therapy group: In addition to regular intern group requirements, trainees will have the opportunity to co-facilitate with staff and to establish their own therapy groups. Trainees will learn to conduct effective group screenings, select members for group, "sell" group to students and colleagues, and facilitate effective counseling groups with the university population.

Special Emphasis Project

The intern will complete a Special Emphasis Project under the director of the area supervisor. The content of the Special Emphasis Project will be negotiated with the area supervisor, but the project must demonstrate how the material relates to diverse populations. The intern will present the outcome of the project to the SCS staff in a second-hour staff meeting.

Examples of Special Emphasis Projects include:

• Developing and establishing a group for a special population (e.g., international students, students with ADHD, women trauma survivors)
• Developing a program for a specialized workshop or psychoeducational group
• Independently establishing and facilitating a process group

At a minimum, the intern will meet individually with the area supervisor on a monthly basis to discuss issues related to the Special Emphasis Area.

Area Supervisor: Cara Armstrong, Ph.D.

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