Group Therapy

Group Based Services provide group-based counseling treatment services to UC students that address a variety of topics ranging from anxiety, depression, mindfulness to social justice. Group therapy is often a treatment of choice for many students’ concerns. By engaging in group therapy, students can expect improved overall well-being and connection with others.

Groups are free and confidential for all UC enrolled students. Talk to a clinician and ask about our group counseling program to get connected and learn more. A pre-group appointment with the facilitator(s) is needed before attending a group. 

We offer a variety of groups each semester including support, theme focused, or general process therapy groups. Groups may be in-person or virtual.

Spring 2025 Therapy Groups

In-person, Wednesday, 5:00pm – 6:30pm

The ARISE group is a for all survivors of sexual and/or relationship violence. ARISE group provides a safe and empowering space for group members to connect with other survivors, talk about their experiences, and identify what they need to move forward in their healing journey. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Betsy Lehman.

In-person, Tuesday, 2:30pm – 4:00pm

The Art of Stress Management is a free Art Therapy group for students to engage in art-making activities to develop skills in expressing emotions, reducing stress, coping with burnout, exploring imposter phenomenon, and enhancing self-awareness. This group will focus on the process of expressing feelings in visual form using magazine collage, drawing, painting etc. No prior artistic experience or skill is necessary, only a willingness to experiment and make art. All art supplies provided. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Christy Wolfram.

Virtual, Thursdays, 3:00pm – 4:00pm

This group offers a supportive, non-judgmental space for college students to explore their relationship with substances while prioritizing overall well-being and academic success. Using evidence-based harm reduction principles, we focus on practical strategies to minimize risks and enhance quality of life. Participants will learn valuable coping skills, engage in therapeutic practices, and develop personalized plans for balanced living. Whether you're looking to moderate your use or simply make more informed choices, this group provides tools and peer support to help you navigate the complexities of college life while promoting health, safety, and personal growth. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Desiree Gonzales.

In-person, Monday, 1:00pm – 2:30pm

Groups members will be guided through the art of collaging with magazine images to explore the values we hold, the visions we hope for, and make space for what our soul wants to tell us. We’ll engage in vision and value board exercises, making journals for reflection, and create SoulCollage™ cards to explore parts of self and our larger stories. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Keysha Alston.

Virtual, Wednesdays, 8:00am-9:30am

DBT includes an evidence-based series of skills to help individuals manage uncomfortable thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.  For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Shane Gibbons.

In-person, Monday, 3:00pm – 4:30pm

A space for members to receive and provide support for one another. This group will also provide space for developing skills that assist with day-to-day functioning (organization, time management, motivation). Open to individuals with symptoms of neurodivergence, even if you have not been formally tested! For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Kelli Wierzbicki.

In-person, Tuesdays, 4:00pm – 5:30pm 

Interpersonal process group that offers support to women-identified students. This group offers a space for exploration and experiential learning of what helps women feel connected and disconnected from self and others. Discussion may also touch on individual experiences. Open to women-identified students. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Kea Brown.

Virtual, Thursdays, 3:30pm – 5:00pm

The Understanding Self and Others therapy group for Graduate Students offers a supportive space to explore personal and relational dynamics. This group is designed to help you gain deeper self-awareness, learn about your interpersonal style, and build meaningful connections with peers. Join us to foster personal growth, strengthen your relationships, build confidence, and share and receive feedback in this safe and welcoming community. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Whitney Richardson.

In-person, Monday, 3:00pm – 4:30pm (Section I)

Learn effective strategies for a compassionate way to view yourself and others that improves mood, reduces stress, and builds healthy relationships. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Aisha Evans.

or

In-person, Tuesday, 1:00pm – 2:30pm (Section II)

Learn effective strategies for a compassionate way to view yourself and others that improves mood, reduces stress, and builds healthy relationships. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Jim Dugar.

In-person, Wednesday, 4:30pm – 6:00pm

A 4-week group focused on building skills focused on developing and enhancing romantic partnerships. Participants will learn how to recognize and nurture fulfilling relationships as well as develop strategies for effective communication, boundary setting, and conflict resolution. Considerations for monogamous and non-monogamous relationships. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Monica Gray.

 

In-Person, Thursdays, 2:00-3:30 PM (Section I)

Want to learn more about yourself, how to build healthy and fulfilling relationships, while trying new ways of connecting with others? This group provides the opportunity to gain better understanding of yourself, share personal experiences, and receive support and feedback. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Amy Blankenship.

OR

In-person, Tuesdays, 5:00-6:30 PM (Section II)

Want to learn more about yourself, how to build healthy and fulfilling relationships, while trying new ways of connecting with others? This group provides the opportunity to gain a better understanding of yourself, share personal experiences, and receive support and feedback. For more information, please schedule an initial consult or reach out to Tara Scarborough.

Community Wellness Groups Spring 2025

 Community Wellness Groups are open to all UC Students. Community Wellness Groups are not therapy groups and focus on skill-building, psychoeducation, and fostering connections with students who share similar experiences within the University of Cincinnati. Students can drop-in as needed throughout the semester with no commitment to attend every week.

Virtual, Weekly on Tuesday from 5:00- 6:00pm

Clinical Placement Support Network (CPSN), is a dedicated community for college students navigating the challenges of clinical work placements. We understand the pressures and challenges of clincal placements and are here to help you thrive both academically and personally. Join us to gain confidence, build resilience, and make lasting connections as you embark on this pivotal stage of your educational journey. 

This is a drop-in group. Student may attend as desired and may join before their placement begins for the semester. RSVP and join here!

Call 513-556-0648 or email Whitney Richardson for more information.

In-Person, Biweekly Tuesdays beginning 2/4, 2:00pm-3:00pm (first group on 2/4 will meet from 11am-Noon)
Teachers-Dyer 320

This is a bi-weekly event for CECH students who love plants, want to meet new people, and want to learn how to care for themselves through caring for plants. The event will involve potting plants and chatting about how, just like with our plants, we must take care of ourselves to survive and thrive. RSVP on GetInvolvedUC is required.

In-person, Biweekly Wednesdays starting 1/22, 3:45pm- 4:30pm
Located in the AACRC Harambee Room
Co-sponsored with CAPS and Debra Love, Sr. Staff Social Work with Student Affairs and Services

WEG0TUS is a bi-weekly peer led community wellness group that provides a safe space for students of color to discuss and obtain support.

Need more information about groups?

What costs are associated with group therapy?

All of our groups are free to currently enrolled students at the University of Cincinnati. 

What time commitments are associated with group therapy?

All of our groups require weekly 90 minute meetings. Groups typically meet for the duration of a semester for an average of ten meetings per semester.  

How many members are in a typical group?

Group membership can vary by topic and semester. Groups typically include 5-8 student group members with one to two CAPS clinicians acting as group facilitators. If you are interested in the exact number of group members of a specific group, feel free to ask the group facilitator for the group you intend to join. 

I’m nervous about sharing my concerns in a group setting. Is this okay?

Absolutely! It is normal to feel nervous about starting a new group. Most new group members experience fears of rejection and embarrassment when starting group. Fortunately these feelings typically subside within a few sessions. You will never be forced to share anything you do not want to share.  

What would happen if a group member is also my friend/roommate/acquaintance? 

We understand that it can be awkward to have a friend, roommate, or acquaintance in your group. If this would occur, you could inform your group facilitator(s) of the situation. The group facilitator(s), in conjunction with group members, would attempt to find a solution that maximizes the benefit and minimizes the risks for group members. In some cases, both group members may remain in the same group. In other cases, one group member may be asked to join another group.