Group Counseling: Final Exam Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts and definitions related to different forms of group counseling, stages of group development, and ethical considerations in group practice.

Task (Facilitation) Groups

Used in community, governmental, and business environments to accomplish identified work goals.

Psycho-educational Groups

Groups that help participants learn about a specific topic or issue, typically in a short-term setting.

Counseling Groups

Focus on helping members cope with life stressors without the goal of personality change.

Psychotherapy Groups

Aim to alleviate symptoms of chronic mental illness through interpersonal interactions.

Brief Group Therapy (BGT)

A structured, time-limited approach that combines elements of counseling and psycho-education.

ASGW

Association for Specialists in Group Work, which sets ethical guidelines for group practice.

Initial Stage (Forming)

Characterized by trust vs. mistrust, where members learn group norms and establish goals.

Transition Stage (Storming/Norming)

Marked by anxiety and defensive behaviors as members test safety in the group.

Working Stage (Performing)

High levels of trust and cohesion, where members communicate openly and effectively.

Final Stage (Adjourning)

Involves feelings of sadness and anxiety over separation, and discussions about the group experience.

Initial Stage (Forming) Member Functions

learn basics of group process; establish personal goals, learn to express feelings/thoughts

Initial (Forming) Stage Leader Functions

develop ground rules/set norms; work toward development of trust; provide structuring

Transition (Storming/Norming) Stage Member Functions

recognize & deal with resistance; learn how to confront others; work through conflicts; move from dependence to independence

Transition (Storming/Norming) Stage Leader Functions

provide safe environment with clear boundaries; encourage and challenge members to face conflicts; assist members in recognizing own defensiveness; respect anxiety & defensive behavior

Working (Performing) Stage Member Functions:

bring personal concerns; offer & take feedback; practice new skills in daily life

Working (Performing) Stage Leader Functions

model appropriate behavior (caring confrontation); support members taking risks; explore common themes; linking; encourage practice of new skills and promote group cohesion

Final (Adjourning) Stage Member Functions:

consolidate learning and transfer to outside life; review meaning and impact of group; deal with feelings of separation; complete unfinished business

Final (Adjourning) Stage Leader Functions

assist members is dealing with feelings regarding termination; reinforces changes that have been made; help members understand & remember what they have learned