I found some valuable components in the research I found on group counseling. There were some key points that I learned from reading these articles that I plan to use in my own group sessions. The research offered sound advice on how to be a great leader and the greatest support system within my own group. I have taken the initiative by starting to incorporate these ideas in my current roles as a student and future leader.
One of the most powerful ideas I read about was that the leader must believe in the process of group counseling (Olsen, 2009). This is important because this is how the process works. If the leader does not believe in the process then the group can pick up on the lack of confidence. Olsen (2009) also explained that leaders have to make the group cohesive. Some leaders have good intent and think they are engaging in group counseling, when in actuality they are involved in individual counseling within a group. It takes time to learn how to bring the group together out of their own individual problems in order to help each other.
In addition to cohesiveness, it is important to be clear on expectations as the leader of the group. Gladding (1994) writes in his book that the stage of clarifying is essential to the group process. He believes that making sure the messages are clear leads to effective communication and leads to successful counseling. I found this notion to be helpful because a lot of times members in a counseling group are not aware of what the message is that they should receive during group sessions. Ideas can get lost and confusing. However, having a main objective of clarity helps the entire group.
Ultimately the goal for effective counseling is that group members are comfortable. According to research the middle phase of group counseling is when members begin to feel comfortability. This is due to the group members building a rapport and doing more work together. The research does emphasize that this still involves effective leadership styles (“Working”, 2008). A group can only get as comfortable with each other as the leader is with them.
After reviewing these sources some of the leader responses that I plan to implement in my own group sessions are centered on bringing everyone together. I believe in building a rapport amongst my group. I can say something to my members like “would you like to switch roles in order to understand how it feels to be the other person”. These kind of initiations will ensure continued group success and build a family structure.
References
Gladding, S.T. (1994). Effective group counseling. ERIC Clearinghouse on counseling and
Olsen. R.E. (2009). The key to group counseling effectiveness. Academic Forum 26. 31-39.
Working: Dynamics and leadership. (2008). An experimental approach to group work. 31-40.
