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 offered at
The Counseling Center in G31 Suites on Maple East. These groups usually include 4-9 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 30-45 minutes. To
schedule this meeting or to ask questions: contact the Counseling Center at
(724)357-2621, stop by G31 Suites on Maple East, or contact Patti Shaffer at pshaffer@iup.edu
The following groups have openings but will close to
new members after the first group meeting. See below for beginning dates and
times:
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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 Rita Drapkin,
Ph.D. & Joanne Petursson, M.A. Wednesdays
3:20-4:40 PM
Hope and Healing…Offered in coordination with the Haven Project, this group is for
women who have experienced physical, sexual or emotional abuse at any time in
their lives. The goals of the group are to provide education, validation and
support in a confidential manner.
*Facilitated by Christine
Butler, M.A. Tentative time … Mondays 3:15-4:30 PM
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 Dave Myers,
Ph.D. & Kara Goldman, M.A Wednesdays 11:30AM -12:30 PM
Vets’ Group…This
is a group for former and/or present members of the US military.
This group will focus on issues facing veterans who are trying to adapt
to civilian life on campus. We will discuss issues faced in the military
community as well as any issues involved in transitioning to the campus
community.
The group will start in the
spring semester. Please contact Shelby Frantz, S.H.bohn@iup.edu
if interested.
Women’s Group…Finding
Our Way: This group is for 6 to 8
female IUP students. It is a place for women to discuss common concerns about
such things as academics, relationships, families, body image, self-esteem, and
other common concerns with a focus on self-awareness and change.
*Facilitated by Beth Kincade,
Ph.D. & Jillian Zeitvogel, M.A.
Tuesdays 2:00 -3:00 PM