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Group Counseling

Group counseling is a powerful tool for growth and change. In group counseling, 5-10 individuals meet face to face to share their struggles and concerns with the facilitation of 1-2 group therapists. Group counseling is an effective treatment modality for many emotional concerns, personal struggles, and relationship issues that students face.

The power in group therapy lies in the unique opportunity to receive multiple perspectives, support, encouragement, and feedback from other individuals in a safe and confidential environment. These interpersonal interactions can provide group members an opportunity to deepen their level of self-awareness and to learn how they relate to others. Additionally, group counseling can be a safe and supportive place to experiment with new ideas and ways of being.

The University Counseling Center offers a wide array of groups to address the needs of GVSU students. Group sessions last from 60-90 minutes and can vary significantly based on format.

Interested in joining group counseling? Contact our office at (616) 331-3266 to get started.

Group Formats Offered at the University Counseling Center

Process Groups

Students will share experiences, give and receive support/feedback, and experiment with new interpersonal behaviors in a safe environment.

Identity Groups

These groups provide students the ability to talk and build resiliency and dialogue around lived experiences.

Skills Groups

These groups provide a space in which students can learn and practice tools for enhancing their well-being and managing specific concerns. These groups are usually more structured and involve more direct instruction from the group leader.

Support Groups

These groups help students whose lives are impacted by similar issues to come together and receive information, support, and guidance from one another.

Winter 2026 Group Counseling Schedule

Page last modified June 4, 2026