Men’s groups
Groups can be helpful with a wide range of difficulties and problems ranging from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem or just feeling stuck. Groups are particularly helpful for addressing interpersonal difficulties such as family dynamics, relationships, friends and social groups. Groups are a good way of learning about how you relate to others and can be very supportive.
Group availability
The next group will run for 10 weeks and starts on Thursday 16th October 2008 to Thursday 18th December 2008. There will be another group starting in January 2009. Once a group has started it will be ‘closed’ so enrolment has to take place before the group start date. Generally the groups follow the 10 week term structure so there is an ‘autumn group’ (October – December), a ‘spring group’ (January – March), and a summer group (May – July).
What can I expect from a men’s group?
There are a maximum of eight in a group. There is no agenda or structure for each meeting. People do not take turns. Group members are encouraged to put into words their thoughts and feelings at their own pace. It is quite normal to have some mixed feelings about joining a group. Talking in front of a group often feels scarier than talking to one other person but there can be the considerable benefit of shared experiences leading to common understanding and the realization that ‘it’s not just me…’
Usually common themes develop as one group members issue will set off thoughts and ideas in others. The focus may shift between talking about particular problems outside the group, problems in the past, to interpersonal issues in relation to the group and between group members.
What is the group therapist's role?
It is the responsibility of the therapist to ensure the safe and therapeutic facilitation of the group. The main focus is on building safety and trust in the group. The therapist will also help members work through difficulties with other members, which do occur from time to time. The group therapists role may be more active or may take more of a back seat depending on the needs of a particular group or individual.
What commitment is required from me?
Joining a counselling group is a commitment, with members needing to take responsibility for attending the group each week and being on time for the duration of the group’s life which is 10 weeks. Group counselling can be uncomfortable or challenging at times and sometimes leads to thoughts of dropping out or leaving. However, being able to talk about frustrations and stick with the group through such difficult times can be very beneficial.
How do I join?
Some problems are not suitable for groups, and its best to talk this through with the group facilitator before joining the group. This could be done over the phone or by a short pre-arranged one-to-one meeting with the group facilitator. The idea feels daunting to most people initially, so an individual talk with the group therapist will help you work out whether your fears are likely to be overwhelming and whether they are balanced by some hope and interest in what a group can offer.
When do they run?
At the moment there is a Thursday night group that starts at 8:00pm and runs for one-and-half hours until 9.30pm. The group runs for 10 weeks and the next group commences on Thursday 16th October 2008 to Thursday 18th December 2008. If it is foreseeable that more than one session will be missed then it is probably better to wait for a more suitable time to start group work.
How much will it cost?
It will cost £75 for the 10 week block of sessions, payable in advance with some negotiation for concessions such as unwaged or students.
I’m interested, what do I do?
Contact Simon on 07795095524 or email to discuss the next step.