Group Counseling

What are the benefits of group counseling? 

Group counseling is a great way to address your concerns. It can provide a safe place to: 

• Talk through issues and receive feedback 

• Discover that others have had similar worries or experiences 

• Gain connection and mutual support 

• Try out new behaviors and skills, such as asserting yourself, addressing conflict or being open with others 

Research shows there is value in both individual and group counseling, with each distinct type of treatment useful in its own way. For example, a unique advantage of group counseling is the ability to work through interpersonal concerns with peers.

We also encourage you to join us for Mindful Mondays, a weekly guided meditation group open to all UAlbany students, faculty and staff. No registration or previous experience is required. 

Note: Please visit the Collegiate Recovery Program page for information on substance use recovery groups. 

How do I join a CAPS group? 

There are two ways to join a CAPS group:

• Make an appointment to meet with one of our clinicians. Hearing about your concerns will help us determine what services make sense for you, so this is a good option for students who are unsure whether they need individual or group counseling, or who aren't sure which group to join.

• Contact the group leader (listed below) to schedule a required pre-group appointment. This is a good option for students who know which group they want to join.

You’ll receive further information — such as the group’s schedule and location — after meeting with a clinician or the group leader. (Group leaders are also CAPS clinicians.)

Periodically, some groups fill up or we determine a particular group isn’t the right fit for a student. In those cases, individual counseling is an excellent alternative. Visit the CAPS page for more information. 

Skill Building Groups