Please join us for support groups where students can reflect on the changes happening in the world and how the social, political, and cultural climate is affecting us. The space will provide students with an opportunity to share what they are thinking and feeling, encouraging mutual understanding and support.
Support group will be co-hosted by licensed counselors from the Center for Counseling and Well-Being. They will facilitate the conversation by asking guided questions meant to foster exploration.
A support group is:
- A sharing space with the purpose of listening, storytelling and connecting
- A platform for students to explore their own experiences without interruption, response or challenge
A support group is NOT:
- A space for debates
- Group therapy
Schedule
Support groups have concluded for the Winter 2025 semester and will resume in Fall 2025. Meeting days and times will be announced as the new semester approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a support group?
A support group is a process meant to create a respectful space for people to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while others listen attentively. The focus is on active listening rather than speaking or responding with advice or opinions. The core idea is to promote understanding, connection, and empathy by allowing everyone to be heard without judgment.
What can I expect?
- Support groups are a drop-in, group processing space.
- Students will be asked guided questions by facilitators, and can share as they feel comfortable.
- Students will have the opportunity to be listened to, and the responsibility of listening to others.
- Students may or may not know others in the group, and will be asked to keep what was shared confidential.
How is a support group different from group therapy?
A support group is a group where people share their thoughts and feelings while others listen without offering advice, focusing on connection and understanding. In contrast, group therapy focuses on addressing mental health issues with guidance and therapeutic techniques.
Who should participate in a support group?
All students are welcome to participate! We invite students who have been directly impacted by the changes in the world or whose experiences are often underrepresented to attend.
Questions?
Please contact Melissa Ware, LMSW, Program Director of The Center for Counseling and Well-Being at (616) 234-4130, or melissaware@grcc.edu.