Group Support
Our group support can help reduce feelings of isolation
Group support
Group counselling can help with the sense of isolation that many people feel after experiencing sexual violence.
You will need to have self-referred into our counselling service to access group support. We run both single-sex and mixed groups, at different times of the day across the year.
Please note, after attending the introductory group you can remain on the waiting list for one-to-one counselling if this is something you would like to do.
Have a look at our group support FAQs below to find out more:
FAQs
What is group support?
Group support is where a trained therapist works with a group of individuals who are facing similar challenges or issues. Group support provides a supportive and confidential space for members to share and process their experiences and gain insights.
What are the benefits of group support?
Group support offers various benefits, including gaining different perspectives, receiving support and feedback, reducing feelings of isolation, improving social skills, and realising that others face similar challenges.
How is group support different from individual counselling?
Individual counselling is one person working with a therapist on a one-on-one basis. Group support involves therapists working with multiple participants at the same time. The dynamics of interacting with a group can offer unique benefits and perspectives.
Is what I say in the group confidential?
Yes, group sessions are confidential. Therapists are bound by professional ethics to maintain confidentiality and members respect each other's privacy. This would only change if we felt there was a risk to yourself or others, and in this instance, we would look to discuss the need to break confidentiality and our reasons for doing this with you first, if possible.
Who facilitates the group sessions?
Groups are facilitated by qualified counsellors or mental health professionals with specific training in group work. The facilitator guides discussions, ensures a safe environment, and helps members explore their thoughts and feelings.
Will I be forced to share my personal experiences in group sessions?
While you are encouraged to share, participation is voluntary and group members can choose the level of disclosure that they are comfortable with. Some participants may share more, while others may prefer to listen and observe.
What types of issues are addressed in the group?
Group support can address various issues, including anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, grief, trauma, abuse, and addiction. It can also help with personal growth and self-improvement.
How many people are typically in a group session?
Group sizes can vary, but they usually consist of between six to 12 people. This provides enough diversity for different perspectives while maintaining an intimate and supportive environment.
How long do group sessions typically last?
Group sessions typically last between one to two hours. The frequency of sessions can vary, ranging from weekly to every two weeks.
I found the group to be a lifeline. I normally find online activities very intimidating and I was apprehensive about participating, but it very quickly became a place and time of safety.
To have achieved that in such a short space of time and online with a group of people I have never met before is quite simply amazing. Both facilitators presented the sessions in a way that was sensitive to us as individuals and I never once felt left behind or isolated from the group.
I am very thankful that I have had this opportunity to have been on the receiving end of such insight and wisdom, and to have experienced it with the other people in the group. Thank you for treating me with dignity, respect and compassion throughout the sessions, and for teaching me that I am not weird for responding to triggers in the way that I do, my brain is normal, it's just responding to layers of very abnormal trauma. This online group was brilliantly delivered and that I would recommend it to anyone who has the opportunity to join.
RASASC client
Introductory group
Our introductory group consists of seven one and a half hour weekly sessions, in a group of up to 12 people. The sessions aim to help you to:
- better understand the impact of trauma, specifically from sexual violence
- learn techniques for managing nightmares, flashbacks, intense emotions and poor sleep
- feel less isolated
- plan some positive changes in your life, and signpost to other resources you may find useful
- understand how you can best make use of our one-to-one counselling (if you decide to go ahead with this).
If you have already self-referred for counselling, and would like to join our introductory group, please email:
counselling@rasasc-guildford.org
