We offer a variety of professionally run groups! (see below) Based on need, any group can be all male or female or can be mixed gender, adult, child, teen, or elder. While group members are all unique, we conduct some pre-screening to help insure compatibility. Contact us for specific rates.

What is screening and why is it done?

People join groups for a specific purpose. When a group is formed, it is necessary to have a process that determines who is ready and able to be in the group. It is also important to determine which type of group is most appropriate. Screening is a method of: 1) placing people in a type of group that best fits their needs; 2) putting the most compatible people together; and 3) matching the reason/topic for being in a group. If screening is not done or not done properly, there is a high likelihood that the group may experience significant disruptions, may loose members, or may end prematurely.

Group sessions versus individual sessions

Individual sessions are useful for confidential, exclusive focus, specialized attention, and personal disclosures are between the individual and her/his treatment provider. The pace of individual sessions is more likely to be based on an individual’s ability to progress. Group sessions are useful for getting feedback and support from others with similar experiences. Confidentiality is a mutual responsibility among members. The group’s pace is influenced by individual member’s progress. Personal disclosures initially made to the facilitator are kept at a minimal and if relevant, are brought back to the larger group. Groups can be an excellent family resource!

Attendance

While certain groups may have a relaxed attendance policy, other groups require consistent attendance in order to function properly. Simply put, it’s why it called a group: a group of people come together regularly for an agreed upon purpose or goal. Attendance also supports individual members’ sense of being respected, sense of safety and stability within the group, and the sense of community/family that forms as group members bond. If a group is a closed group, enrollment is limited within the first few sessions. If a group is an open group, enrollment can occur at any time that the group is functioning.

What if I’m court ordered?

A court may order that someone be in counseling and may not specify whether the counseling must be individual, group, or both. Depending on your case, the court may give you the opportunity to select a provider of your choice. Sometimes the courts will allow you to select a provider of your choice from among certain providers such as a licensed or certified person or a certain type of treatment center. Based on your case, your treatment provider may only need to verify that you’re in treatment. Sometimes the court and/or others involved in your case may request progress reports. Carefully review your paper work and consult with the persons working with your case regarding these issues.

Sign up

For most groups, sign up is done by contacting us and asking to be put on a sign up list. Once a list is filled, contact for screening begins. For rap sessions, the group and topic are formed first and then we are contacted to schedule a time to begin meeting. Work and focus groups can be done this way as well OR a sign up list can be developed. Naturally, interest determines whether a group will begin.

2007 Groups by Licensed Professionals