Group work is a powerful tool for growth and change. For many emotional concerns, personal struggles, and relationship issues that college students face, group work can be more effective than individual counseling, because it works directly on improving interpersonal effectiveness! Having the support of other students who understand can also help you maintain the effort and motivation it takes to successfully overcome difficult personal or mental health concerns.

While many students prefer the social context of groups, we understand that some students may initially feel intimidated or hesitant about the idea of talking about sensitive concerns within a group. This is natural, as group work is usually a new experience. However, we have found that most students who attend counseling groups report that the relief and excitement of meeting others who understand their struggles quickly overshadows the initial anxiety. In fact, the students who are most hesitant about group or who tend to be shy or nervous about expressing themselves are often among the ones who benefit the most!

Because group work is so effective and popular, Counseling Services offers a wide array of groups and workshops to address the needs of our students. Some involve more open discussion and sharing, while others address a specific topic or are structured more like a class to teach you positive coping or mindfulness skills. Group offerings may change each semester. If you are interested in a type of group you don’t see listed, please feel free to let us know. 

For more information, or to inquire about joining a specific group, please contact the listed facilitator. If you have general questions or aren’t sure which group might be the best fit, contact Counseling Services at (203) 392-5475  or counselingservices@southernct.edu.

Groups for Sprig 2025

First-Gen Support Group

Are you the first in your family to attend college and looking for a supportive community? This group provides a space to discuss the unique challenges first-generation college students encounter, offering guidance and peer support to help you thrive at SCSU.

When/Where: Wednesdays starting September 25, 2024, 12:30-1:30 p.m., Schwartz Hall

How to Join: Contact Chrystal Long, LPC, LADC (longc3@southernct.edu)

Let’s Get Real! A Drop-In Group for New and Transfer Students

Transitioning to a new environment can be tough! This group is an open space for new and transfer students
to share their experiences, get support, and connect with others. No RSVP needed—just show up and let’s
help each other make the best of the first semester, whether it’s great or challenging.
When/Where: Tuesdays, 12:30-1:30pm, EN B219, starting September 3, 2024
How to Join: Drop in—no need to RSVP! Contact facilitator Elaine Allen, LCSW with any questions

Grad Student Support Group

Graduate school can be demanding, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. This group offers ongoing peer
support for graduate students. We’ll discuss topics like balancing school and life, staying motivated, building
confidence, and addressing mental health challenges. Join us to get support from others who understand
the unique demands of graduate studies.
When/Where: TBD (likely in-person in ENB219; virtual option may be available)
How to Join: Contact facilitator Elaine Allen, LCSW (allene4@southernct.edu)

Relationship Real Talk Support Group

Designed for students seeking to explore and enhance their interpersonal relationships, this group offers a confidential environment to discuss topics such as communication, intimacy, and relationship dynamics. Participants will gain insights into building healthy relationships and understanding personal boundaries.

When/Where: TBD, in-person

How to Join: Contact facilitator Elaine Allen, LCSW (allene4@southernct.edu)

Cultural Connections Support Group 

This group provides a welcoming space for students from diverse backgrounds to share experiences, discuss challenges, and celebrate cultural identities. Topics may include navigating cultural dynamics in academic settings, family expectations, and building a supportive community. 

When/Where: TBD, in-person 

How to Join: Contact facilitator Stephanie Pérez, LPC (perezs10@southernct.edu)

Your Money & Mental Health Workshop Series

Money and mental health are deeply connected. In this workshop series, explore your relationship with
money, how it impacts your mental health, and how to make healthier financial decisions to improve
your overall well-being.
When/Where: Thursdays, October 3 - November 21, 2024, 1:00pm - 2:00pm, Schwartz Hall, Rm 100
How to Join: Drop in during the dates and times listed
Facilitators: Matthew Ouimet, LPC & Chrystal Long, LPC

Calm Body, Calm Mind: Complementary and Alternative Treatments to Reduce Anxiety

This weekly group uses aromatherapy, breathing techniques, and grounding exercises to help manage
anxiety. You’ll learn how to strengthen the mind-body connection and gain control over anxiety
symptoms.
When/Where: Starts Thursday, October 24, 2024, 12:00pm-1:00pm, EN B219
How to Join: Email Eileen Bonyai, APRN (bonyaie1@southernct.edu)

Mourning Owls: A Peer Group for Grief and Loss

Have you experienced grief and loss and feel that no one understands the pain you are feeling? Come
connect with others feeling the similarly, learn about grief reactions, develop ways to manage your
feelings and find meaning in life again.
When/Where: TBD
How to Join: Set up a brief pre-group meeting with Michelle Lawler lawlerm1(@southernct.edu)
Facilitators: Michelle Lawler, LPC

Take A Break Group

This group is focused on helping students who want to change or cut back on their use of marijuana,
tobacco or alcohol or who may be considering changing unhealthy patterns of addictive behavior such
as social media, gaming or gambling, etc. Learn new coping skills to manage stressors that will help you
cut back on your use of substances to be a healthier you!
When/Where: TBD
How to Join: Set up a brief pre-group meeting with Sarah Keiser (keisers3@southernct.edu).
Facilitators: Sarah Keiser, LADC