How to Run an Effective GroupKasie Coulombe The Early Intervention ProgramLeanne PaisleyRegional Opioid Intervention Service
Introductions
• Stationed at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre and some of our programs are funded by the Ministry of Child and Youth Services
• Groups with the Early Intervention Program are geared to adolescents at risk for developing substance abuse or related problems and focus on identifying and developing strengths and resilience
• 14 years combined experience running groups
Why are groups important?
Where to Start? Questions you need to answer…• What type of group• Group composition • Size• Frequency and duration of meetings• Length of group
Where to Start? Questions you need to answer…
• Setting• Voluntary vs. involuntary• Open vs. closed• Who
– To run the group– To be in the group
• Self-identification vs. teacher/admin referral
Getting Support
Success of the intervention depends upon the support from administration and teachers
• Presentation at school staff meeting• Flexibility with meeting times• Open Communication
How to Encourage Interest
Exercise – Choosing Group Members
• Break into small groups• Using the provided handout, select 6 students out
of the 10 described to form a group
Getting Started
Decisions as a group:
• Discussion of confidentiality and limits• Establishing group rules and discussing
consequences for breaking group rules
Content vs. Process
“the what”
“the how”
Content vs. Process
• Examples of process:– Atmosphere– Participation– Decision-Making– Influence– Membership– Non-verbal Communication
Stages of Group Development
• Forming• Storming• Norming• Performing• Adjourning
Tasks of the Facilitator
Forming DIRECTING Structuring the group and setting the tone Clarifying goals and expectations Building group connections
Storming MANAGING Resolving points of conflict Normalizing tension and discomfort Being a non-anxious catalyst for confrontation
Norming CONSULTING Defining one’s position and ideas Sharing leadership role Incorporating diversity and creativity
Performing SUPPORTING Celebrating group performance Letting go to support group process Preparing for closure & evaluation issues
Adapted from VanKatwyk, Helping Style Inventory (module I,iv) and Laikin (1991).
Encouraging Student Participation
• Start Small– Ice breakers
• Provide Snacks– Think Maslow’s hierarchy
of needs• Be Creative! • Last Check-in
Group Dynamics
• What should you do?• Address the issue immediately or later?• Address the issue in front of the group or
individually?
Group Leadership Techniques
Demonstrate genuine interest and understanding with the following skills:
1. Active Listening2. Open Ended Questions3. Affirmations4. Reflecting