The group training component is comprised by a group seminar and an observation/discussion group. It runs from August to June and Consists of the following activities:

• Seminar in group theory of group counseling and group psychotherapy

• Observation of group conducted by two training staff members

• Discussion group following the observation of the above mentioned group

•  Starting and conducting to termination of a group

• Supervision of group work.

Objectives and Goals:

The objective of this component is to provide training with the basic theoretical foundation and technical skill necessary to ethically employ the modality of group counseling and/or group psychotherapy as an intervention with clients. This includes knowledge of the mechanics of starting and conducting groups.

Special emphasis is placed on the distinguishing factors of group counseling and group psychotherapy and knowing the differences between them. This also entails special focus on the techniques utilized in each approach.

The goal is for each trainee to select a co-facilitator with whom they will conduct their respective group and to successfully run a short-term group to its contractual date of termination.

The observation group is a group for students, which follows the academic calendar. Each member is screened and invited to voluntarily participate, with written permission, in this group for observation. Both group members and group trainees are required to observe the contract around confidentiality and the laws of the District of Columbia dictating procedures and conduct around group confidentiality. Each participant from each group provides written documentation of this and is introduced to one another at the beginning of the first group session. Trainees observe the group from the viewing room.