Guide Response Serv Small Group Counseling Guide 2015 | Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. (n.d.)., pg.26 https://dese.mo.gov/media/pdf/guid-respon-serv-small-group-counseling-guide-2015

Yalom ID. (1995). The theory and practice of group psychotherapy (4th ed.). New York: Basic Books. 

Mental Health & Wellness Counseling, Angelo State University

EDG 6321 Group Counseling

Dr. Natalie Fikac

February 16, 2025

Resiliency Mindset- Being able to embrace challenges and use them as an opportunity for growth and not as a setback.

Growth Mindset-Using adversity as a catalyst for self-development and improvement.

Self- Efficacy Mindset- Developing confidence in managing stress and practicing effective coping strategies.

Behaviors to Develop:

Stress Management- Utilizing techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing, and mental reframing to manage stress.

Emotional Adjustment- Recognizing and showing emotions in healthy ways and remaining calm during challenging situations.

Peer Support- Demonstrating communication skills and active listening to build strong support networks.

Communication-

Presentations: Brief presentations or discussions with newly arrived members during in processing sessions.

Base Email Communications: Sending newsletters and important updates through the base’s family support channels.

Squadron/Unit Meetings & Roll Calls: Sharing information at morning formations or commander’s calls.

Family Readiness Group (FRG) & M&FRC Meetings: Collaborating with the Military & Family Readiness Center for better outreach.

📢 Methods of Communication:

• Email & Base Networks: Sent through unit emails, FRG, and M&FRC.

• Flyers & Posters: Placed in high-traffic areas (BX, Commissary, Gym, CDC, Youth Center).

• Social Media Announcements: Posted on official base pages and spouse/military family groups.

• Briefings & Word-of-Mouth: Shared at squadron meetings, school counselor sessions, and chaplain services.

📌 Key Information Shared:

• Purpose and objectives of the group.

• Meeting schedule and expectations.

• Confidentiality guidelines.

• Benefits of participation.

2. Assessing Readiness, Willingness & Interest

✅ Pre-Screening Questionnaire (Google Form, Paper, or Digital Survey):

• Personal goals for joining the group.

• Comfort level with sharing in a group setting.

• Availability and commitment.

• Current challenges or stressors related to military life.

✅ Interviews (Individual & Group Options)

• One-on-One Interviews: For sensitive topics (deployment stress, reintegration, family concerns).

• Group Screening: To observe dynamics and gauge cohesion potential.

3. Screening & Selection Process

👥 Individual Screening:

• Ensures a safe and comfortable fit for the participant.

• Identifies specific support needs.

👨‍👩‍👦 Group Screening:

• Observes interaction and engagement levels.

• Assesses ability to contribute positively to discussions.

🎯 Final Selection Criteria:

• Willingness to participate and share.

• Availability for regular attendance.

• Emotional readiness for group discussions.

• A balanced mix of backgrounds for diverse support and perspectives.

🔍 Policy Research:

• For active-duty members and spouses, informed consent is required before participation in support groups.

• Confidentiality guidelines must be clearly outlined and adhere to ethical standards.

• Parental consent is mandatory for minors.

• Participants must be informed about purpose, confidentiality, and voluntary participation.

• Consent forms must be signed before participation begins.

• A copy of the signed form must be kept for records.

Pre-Determined Rules (Set by Facilitator)
These rules ensure a safe and respectful environment:

• Confidentiality: What is shared in the group stays in the group (except in cases of harm or mandated reporting).

• Respect: Listen actively, avoid interrupting, and honor diverse perspectives.

• Non-Judgmental Space: No shaming, criticizing, or invalidating others’ experiences.

• Attendance & Commitment: Consistent participation is encouraged for group cohesion.

• No Forced Sharing: Participants can choose their level of engagement without pressure.

Rules Determined as a Group
These rules allow participants to shape their experience:

• Communication Guidelines: (e.g., using “I” statements, time limits for sharing)

• Use of Technology: Should phones be allowed or silenced?

• Support & Encouragement: How will group members offer encouragement or assistance?

• Conflict Resolution: How will disagreements be handled in a respectful manner?

  
  

  Implementation of Ground Rules

  How We Will Set & Reinforce These Rules:

  • First Meeting Discussion: Participants review and agree upon the guidelines.

  • Signed Agreement: Members acknowledge their commitment to the rules.

  • Visible Reference: Rules are posted in the meeting space and/or emailed to participants.

  • Regular Check-Ins: The group revisits the rules periodically for adjustments.

Plan for This Stage:

🔹 Icebreakers & Introductions: Activities that help members feel comfortable (e.g., name games, shared experiences).
🔹 Creating Group Norms Together: Members contribute to rules, promoting ownership and accountability.
🔹 Confidentiality Discussion:

• Explain the expectation of confidentiality.

• Clarify limitations (e.g., harm to self/others, abuse must be reported).

• Reinforce that confidentiality cannot be guaranteed, but it is expected.
  🔹 Open-Ended Check-Ins: Regular opportunities to share initial thoughts or concerns.

  
  

  Stage 2: Storming & Norming

  🔹 Consistent Check-Ins: Start each session with a quick "How are you feeling today?" question.
  🔹 Encouraging Active Participation:

  • Rotate leadership roles (e.g., leading discussions, sharing personal experiences).

  • Use engaging activities like role-playing, problem-solving exercises, and group reflections.
    🔹 Conflict Management:

  • Normalize occasional disagreements and provide tools for respectful dialogue.

  • Mediate tensions while maintaining a safe environment.
    🔹 Adjusting as Needed:

  • Anonymous feedback forms to gauge comfort and effectiveness of sessions.

  • Flexibility in content based on group needs.

  Stage 3: Adjourning

  🔹 Reflect & Celebrate Growth:

  • Have members share key takeaways or personal growth moments.

  • Provide small tokens of appreciation.
    🔹 Final Confidentiality Reminder:

  • Discuss the importance of respecting shared experiences even after the group ends.
    🔹 Follow-Up Plan:

  • Offer a final one-on-one check-in for members needing extra support.

  • Provide resources for continued growth (e.g., support networks, mental health services).

  • Consider a voluntary alumni group or follow-up meeting for those wanting to stay connected.

  
  

✅ Military members and families often experience stress, transitions, and uncertainty—this leadership style motivates members to adapt and grow.
✅ It helps members develop resilience, set goals, and find personal meaning in their experiences.
✅ Encourages positivity, self-reflection, and future-oriented thinking, which is essential for a group focused on support and personal development.

How It Works in the Group:

• I will encourage members to share their strengths and experiences to uplift one another.

• I will challenge members to set personal growth goals related to coping, communication, or resilience.

• I will provide inspiration and motivation to help members navigate military life changes.

  
  

  Servant Leadership

  ✅ This style focuses on supporting and empowering members, which is essential for military families facing unique challenges.
  ✅ It fosters a safe, inclusive, and empathetic environment, ensuring everyone feels heard and valued.
  ✅ Encourages collaboration, peer support, and shared decision-making, which helps strengthen group bonds.

  How It Works in the Group:

  • I will act as a facilitator, guiding discussions rather than dominating them.

  • I will listen actively, validate experiences, and provide resources that fit members' specific needs.

  • I will promote a participant-driven approach, allowing the group to shape its own experience.

  
  

  Why This Approach Works for Military Families & Service Members

• Empowers individuals while fostering group connection.

• Encourages emotional resilience and adaptability—critical skills for military life.

• Balances structured guidance with flexibility, ensuring support while allowing participants to take ownership of their progress.

Members realize they are not alone in their struggles.
Reduces feelings of isolation common among military families experiencing relocation, deployment stress, or reintegration.
✅ Example: A newly enlisted service member finds comfort knowing others have also struggled with adjusting to military life.

Instillation of Hope

Group members witness others overcoming challenges, fostering optimism for their own situations.
Seeing success stories from fellow military families provides motivation to develop coping skills.
✅ Example: A spouse struggling with deployment stress learns from another who has successfully navigated similar hardships.

Imparting Information

Members gain practical coping skills and emotional regulation strategies.
Facilitator provides resources on mental health, communication, and resilience.
✅ Example: The group discusses stress management techniques, and members share what has worked for them.

Group Cohesion

A sense of belonging and community develops, fostering trust and openness.
Strengthens emotional support systems within the military community.
✅ Example: Over time, members become more comfortable sharing personal experiences and struggles.

• Counselors must protect client confidentiality but must also disclose information when there is a risk of harm (e.g., self-harm, harm to others, abuse, or neglect).

• Unlike individual counseling, confidentiality in group settings cannot be fully guaranteed because multiple participants are involved.

How This Supports Group Counseling:
Sets clear boundaries for what can and cannot remain confidential.
Helps build trust among participants while acknowledging legal obligations.
Prevents misunderstandings by establishing ground rules on confidentiality from the start.

Application in Practice:
Before sessions begin, members sign an informed consent form acknowledging limits to confidentiality.
The counselor reinforces confidentiality expectations in every session.
If a disclosure requiring mandated reporting occurs, the counselor follows legal and ethical reporting protocols while supporting the affected participant.

🔹 Explanation:

• Counselors must fully inform group members (and parents/guardians when working with minors) about the purpose, structure, risks, and expectations of the group.

• Participants must understand their right to withdraw at any time.

  
  

  How This Supports Group Counseling:
  Ensures transparency, so participants (and guardians) make informed decisions about joining the group.
  Protects both the counselor and participants by clarifying roles, responsibilities, and expectations. Empowers participants, fostering a sense of autonomy in their counseling experience.

🔹 Application in Practice:
Each participant (or their guardian) signs a written informed consent form before joining the group.
The counselor reviews consent forms verbally to ensure comprehension.
Participants are reminded regularly that group participation is voluntary and that they have the right to opt out if they choose.

Why These Requirements Are Essential for Ethical Group Counseling

✅ Protects Participants: Ensures safety, trust, and respect for personal boundaries.
✅ Protects the Counselor: Establishes clear ethical and legal guidelines to follow.
✅ Enhances Group Effectiveness: Fosters an environment where members feel secure in sharing their experiences.
✅ Promotes Ethical Standards: Aligns with professional guidelines from ACA, ASCA, and ASGW.