I took CM 543 Group Theories & Process of Counseling to understand the theoretical models of group counseling and understand how to apply the knowledge to successfully facilitate a group. The course had two components: learning theoretical foundations of group counseling and leading a series of mock groups to apply knowledge of theory to practice. Running a group with a co-facilitator gave me practical experience at managing the dynamics associated with group counseling and applying strategies for designing group curriculum.

 

Interestingly, the group course was interrupted by Covid-19 shelter in place orders. My co-facilitator and I lead one mock-group in a classroom filled with students role playing clients and one on-line session facilitated through each “client” streaming from their respective homes. This was excellent practice for me as it prepared me for the similar experience I faced in my practicum. At the hospital affiliated with my practicum site, a co-facilitator and I lead an in-person Cognitive Behavioral Skills Group. As Covid-19 exposures became an increased risk, I transitioned to conducting virtual group sessions with clients. The practical experience I gained in the mock group facilitation learning how to navigate the group dynamic with the added filter of virtual session in class directly served skills I was able to demonstrate at my practicum and internship site.

 

Attached below is a paper demonstrating the application of a theoretical model to an observed task group and a sample curriculum co-developed with my group partner during our mock group sessions for adolescents who had experienced bullying.