Group counselling

In group counselling one person (the counsellor) attempts to help the members of a group to focus on the emotional content of their interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships and their effects on the relationship of group members to the outside world. Frequently the focus is on what is currently occurring in the group. Problem solving focuses on the understanding of emotions and the resolving of emotional conflicts. Three-way interaction prevails with emphasis on group-to-member and member-to-member responses. Forms of interactions are: clarification; reflection; summarization; syntheses; and nonverbal, supportive gestures.

Mutual support increases the possibility of discussing the meaningful problems of the members. There is concentrated and careful listening not only to the content but even more significantly to its revelation of the speaker. In such a climate the ability and readiness to share one's self with others broadens and deepens. Creative differences in values, ideas, and feelings are expected, accepted and encouraged. Members are encouraged as they see that others are maturing.