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Groups and Workshops - Spring 2008
 
All groups are FREE and
all information exchanged in groups is CONFIDENTIAL!
Call 777-5223 to sign up for a group.
Unless otherwise noted, all groups are held at CHDC.
  1. ANXIETY SUPPORT AND PROCESS GROUP
                Sylvia Baker Blair, Ph.D. and Krystal Stanley, M.Ed.
                Wednesdays, 10:30 – 11:45 am
                Starting January 30
    Many students struggle with anxiety during the course of their college career, and at times these feelings become overwhelming.  This ongoing, weekly group is designed for students who are dealing with social/relational anxiety, OCD, generalized anxiety, and panic attacks. Group sessions will focus on common sources of anxiety, and group members will learn about and practice coping skills such as relaxation and meditation techniques and various cognitive strategies that help reduce intrusive thoughts and/or fears. 

  2. BROTHAS & SISTAS EMPOWERMENT
                Sylvia Baker Blair, Ph.D.
                Start date, time and day to be determined.  Call 777-5223 for more information.
    This group provides a safe, supportive and empowering forum for African American/Black male and female students to share their individual and collective experiences as college students.  A wide range of personal and social issues are addressed, such as identity, self-esteem, academic success, effective coping strategies, dating, and spirituality.  This group is open to undergraduate and graduate, African American/ Black students.

  3. BUILDING A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP WITH FOOD
    Rhea Merck, Ph.D. and Lisa Mustard, MPH, Ed.S.
    Mondays, 3:30-5:00 pm
    Starting January 28 
    This is a motivated group of like-minded, understanding people who are dealing with issues related to body image, food, exercise addiction or ridding their life of ED.  You must set up a screening appointment with a staff therapist before you can join this group.

  4. CHOICES
    Fridays, 3:15-4:45 pm

    • Jan. 25, Feb. 1, Feb. 8 and Feb. 15
    • Feb. 22, Feb. 29, Mar. 7 and Mar. 21
    • Mar. 28, Apr. 4, Apr. 11 and Apr. 18

    For most college students, the university experience brings with it many developmental hurdles and opportunities.  Choices abound, and taking risks can lead to a variety of outcomes.  One of the many choices that most college students have to make involves the use of alcohol and or drugs.  If you are currently interested in exploring your personal relationship with substances and want to increase your personal awareness of this relationship, and wish to learn how to make healthier lifestyle choices, this group may be for you.  Participation in four consecutive sessions is required.

     
  5. THE COUPLE’S CONNECTION
    Sarah Wright, Psy.D. and Jenelle Fitch, M.A.
    Fridays, 1:45-3:15 pm
    Starting February 1
    Do you think that your relationship is the only one struggling? Have you doubted the possibility that things can ever change? Does it ever seem like you and your partner just speak different languages? Then this is your group!  Join other couples in exploring triumphs and struggles in their relationships. This group will aim to enhance communication, foster a better understanding of one’s partner, and deepen the intimate connection. The group will meet weekly and regular attendance would be appreciated for the benefit of the group.
     
  6. DISSERTATION AND THESIS SUPPORT GROUP
    Eric Klein, M.A.
    Thursdays, 2:00-3:15 pm
    Starting January 31
    Many bright and otherwise capable graduate students somehow reach a “deadlock” while working through the thesis or dissertation process.  Often, students feel overwhelmed by the size and scope of this academic task.  Some people experience great difficulties balancing their competing academic, personal, and professional roles.  Other students tend to procrastinate due to actual underlying concerns about graduating and facing the “real world”.  Whatever the reason, this “deadlock” problem plagues graduate students universally.  As a result, this group has been specifically designed to help graduate students build skills relevant to completing their dissertation or thesis, subdivide the task into manageable goals, and explore concerns associated with graduating.  NOTE: Counselors do not advise students concerning the actual content of the dissertation or thesis; rather, the goal is to alleviate difficulties regarding the process of completing the research project.
     
  7. EXPERIENTIAL THERAPY/GROWTH GROUP
                Russell Haber, Ph.D.  
                Mondays, 2:00-4:00 pm
    Starting January 28 (Open to new members through February 11)
    This group will explore bodily, emotional and cognitive responses to current concerns.  This exploration usually helps to resolve family of origin issues, thus providing a new perspective with new possibilities. This group is an integration of psychomotor therapy and Satir’s growth model.  Commitment to full participation is required.  Limit 9.  Please pick up and read ahead of time the descriptive packet for this group; it is available in the front office.
     
  8. GENERAL GROUP THERAPY
    Krystal Stanley, M.Ed. and Eric Klein, M.A.
    Tuesdays, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm; Starting February 5
    OR
    Jody Lenrow, Psy.D. and Sarah Wright, Psy.D.
                Wednesdays, 3:15-4:45 pm; Starting January 23           
                OR
    Toby Lovell, Psy.D. and Jenelle Fitch, M.A.
    Fridays, 10:30 am-12:00 pm; Starting January 25
                           
    “Group Therapy” is not just a bar! General therapy process groups are incredibly powerful, effective, and rewarding.  This ongoing, weekly group is comprised of individuals who share basic struggles with any of the relationships in their lives (with friends, partners, spouses, family members, etc.). Group therapy provides an opportunity to establish trusting, supportive relationships and allows for honest interpersonal exchanges of feedback with one another.  This is a great way for individuals to learn about themselves and about how they can improve relationships with others.
     
  9. GLBT PROCESS GROUP
                Toby Lovell, Psy.D. and Jody Lenrow, Psy.D.
                Tuesdays, 3:30-5:00 pm
                Starting January 29
    Being lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgendered can be difficult at times. Maybe you are worried about telling others or having others find out... Maybe you have been the target of discrimination or prejudice... Maybe you just aren't sure about your identity... Maybe you don't feel connected to the GLBT communities... Maybe you don't feel as positive about yourself as you would like... Maybe you are having a hard time meeting other LGBT individuals. If you are experiencing any problems or concerns because you are gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, or questioning and would like to talk with others dealing with similar issues, let us help.
     
  10. GRIEF AND LOSS SUPPORT GROUP
                Jenelle Fitch, M.A.
                Wednesdays, 2:00-3:15 pm
                Starting February 6
    Loss is an inevitable part of life, and grief is a natural part of the healing process. The reasons for grief are many, such as the loss of a loved one, the loss of health, or the letting go of a long-held dream. Dealing with a significant loss can be one of the most difficult times in a person's life. This 10-week group helps students explore the impact of grief and loss on their lives. 
     
  11. INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS SUPPORT GROUP
                Jan Ziegler, Psy.D.
                Fridays, 3:30-5:00 pm
    Start date to be determined.  Call 777-5223 for more information.
    Learn as you talk together about the differences and similarities between your own native cultures and others from around the globe. Surprising coincidences can emerge, such as a student from South Korea and one from Peru both had the same favorite TV show as a child! Who would have imagined that? Join in discussion of the pleasures and struggles that occur when one is leaning and trying to understand this American culture that you now share. Everyone has an accent including the American leaders who are also active in learning and enjoying this group of International students. We like to talk and to listen and to appreciate each other.   If this sounds like a group that you would like to be part of, give it a try one time… you'll want to come back!
     
  12. MEDITATION/MINDFULNESS
                Jody Lenrow, Psy.D.
    Mondays, please arrive at 4:05 if you have never meditated before;
    otherwise 4:15-4:45 pm
                Starting January 28
                OR
    Thursdays, please arrive at 10:50 am if you have never meditated before;
    otherwise 11:00-11:30 am
    Starting January 31
    Curious about meditation?  Is your mind full of busy thoughts and “noise?” Are you stressed and in need of relaxation? Are you operating on “autopilot,” and unable to enjoy the present moment? Meditation, a form of mindfulness, is a relaxed state in which one directs one’s attention on a specific thought or awareness.  The benefits are many, and can include a feeling of peace and calm, along with changes in metabolism, heart rate, respiration, blood pressure and brain chemistry.  If you want to learn more and would like to meditate alongside others, drop in for this group whenever you’re able.

  13. REDEFINING YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH SUBSTANCES
                Toby Lovell, Ph.D. and Khris Coolidge, LISW-CP, CAC I
                Fridays, 3:15-4:45 pm
                Starting February 15
    Some students give too much space in their lives to alcohol and/or drugs. In some cases, drug and/or alcohol use can lead to problems with the law, school performance, relationships, and emotional and physical well-being.  This eight-session group will support students in an effort to redefine their priorities and engage in a healthier lifestyle.  The group also serves as an opportunity to explore the underlying issues related to substance use and abuse. Group members must attend eight consecutive sessions.

  14. SELF-HYPNOSIS/RELAXATION TRAINING
                Rhea A. Merck, Ph.D.
                Thursdays, 3:30-4:30 pm
                Ongoing throughout the year
    This drop-in workshop will focus on teaching techniques of relaxation and self-suggestion to improve participants’ ability to manage stress, concentrate, improve memory, overcome worries and fears, increase self confidence and develop a more positive outlook on life.  Come by anytime in the semester when you have a Thursday afternoon free and want to recharge your battery!

  15. SOUL FOOD CAFÉ
                Sylvia Baker Blair, Ph.D.
                February 18, March 17, and April 21
    11:30 AM-1:00 pm (Russell House Rm. 348)           
    This workshop was developed in the tradition of African American families discussing topics around the dinner table while enjoying a scrumptious meal.  Different topics relevant to African American students will be discussed every third Monday.  Bring your lunch and let’s talk. 
  16. STRONGER TOGETHER
    Sarah Wright, Psy.D.
    Tuesdays, 2:00-3:30 pm
    Starting January 29
    This group will create a safe and secure environment for women survivors of sexual abuse and/or assault. The aim is to provide support and increase coping skills for group members who may be struggling with current relationships, sexuality, self-esteem or other issues. Group process can be a very powerful healing force and we will rely on the strength of one another to accomplish our goals. The group will meet weekly and regular attendance would be appreciated for the cohesiveness of the group.

  17. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOU: ANGER MANAGEMENT
                Pete Liggett, Ph.D.
                Date and time to be determined.  Call 777-5223 for more information.
    Chronic anger is costly, both emotionally and physically.  This four-week, no nonsense workshop is designed to aid participants in identifying difficulties they have with anger and developing strategies for being more interpersonally effective. Each session will focus on specific issues related to managing anger, and participants will be expected to make a commitment to attending all four groups and participating in discussions.

TO REGISTER FOR A GROUP: please call 777-5223 or stop by the Counseling & Human Development Center, Byrnes Building 7th Floor. You may also visit our website at http://www.sa.sc.edu/shs/chdc/.. Registration forms must be completed prior to the group/workshop to assure a reserved space. Enrollment for each group/workshop is limited. Faculty and staff are welcome on a space-available basis.

Support groups or workshops for various organizations (e.g. students in specific major, classes, campus organizations, and residence hall) may be arranged if personnel to facilitate them are available. Please contact Tamarah Richardson at 777-5223.

The center also has an extensive outreach program and can provide presentations (usually 1-1.5 hours) to any Campus group on many of the topics included in our workshops and groups and even topics not listed. Here is a sampling of possible topics:

Conflict Resolution
Communication Skills
Relationship Issues
Personality Types
Stress Management
Home Sickness
Developing Self-Esteem
Medication & Therapy
Assertiveness Training
Coping with Depression
Eating Disorders
Grief & Loss

If your class, organization, etc. wishes to have a presentation, please contact Dr. Toby Lovell, Director of Outreach, at 777-5223 or via email at OUTREACH@gwm.sc.edu

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