Corey et al.

, (2014) in working through the initial stages in group counseling displayed a

number of techniques that allowed the members of the group to begin opening up, becoming
more honest and developing some early trusting relationships within the first session. It was
interesting to note the conflict that also occurred and how the counselors were able to use that
conflict to benefit the group. Several of the methods used throughout the initial stage of the
group were helpful to make note of to use as future reference.
In leading a counseling/therapy group, issues of trust, anxiety and feelings of
apprehension are sure to come into play during the initial stage of the group. A technique that
Corey et al. implemented was having all group members look around the room and become
aware of their assumptions about the other members, about themselves and to explore not only
the fears they bring to the group, but also their expectations they have for the group (2014).
Group members were able to express their fears, hopes and expectations to the other members
and in doing so, they were able to see that many of the group members had the same anxieties
and fears, giving everyone a common ground.
Another technique that was noted was how Corey et. al. had group members create
specific goals for themselves, which allowed for the group to have a clear direction. In
therapy/counseling groups, goals are too often broad, fuzzy, and made because the individual
believes their goal is what others want from them. By identifying specific, personal goals,
members are more motivated to participate in discussion. In doing so, therapeutic growth in the
group begins to occur as a clear direction for the group starts to form (Corey et. al., 2014).
Furthermore, Corey et. al used the beneficial technique of what they referred to as
making contracts (2014). In therapy/counseling groups, members may set personal goals, but
have trouble taking the necessary steps needed to reach their goals, as often individuals want the

result without the process. By asking members routinely if they are willing to do the work and
take the steps needed to reach their end goal, members are more apt to self-reflect and determine
if the goals they set are to benefit themselves or others.
While only a few are listed, several of the techniques that were displayed within the video
are beneficial in taking to memory when leading a group including: direct talk, here and now and
avoiding quick solutions (Corey et. al., 2014). In using these techniques within a therapy group,
the leader, or co-leaders, are able to allow for the process of trust to develop, and creating a safe
space in which real change can begin to occur.
WC=458
Reference
Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Haynes, R. (Producers). (2014). Groups in Action: Evolution and
Challenges (2nd ed). [Instructional video on DVD]. United States: Borderline Productions.
Corey, G., Corey, M. S., & Haynes, R. (2014). Groups in Action: Evolution and Challenges
(2nd ed.). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole.