Group Counseling Techniques in a School Setting

During a child's educational years, there may be difficult times and struggles may be experienced. Problems with students are common and possibly shared by many students. Because students may keep their problems to themselves, it is beneficial to organize group counseling options in a school setting. This will allow children to share and connect with others who may be suffering from similar problems.

Classroom Time Counseling

• By addressing an entire classroom, students will not feel individually singled out as having a problem. Classroom counseling techniques can be related to problems with studying and learning. Children can address concerns about how they feel they are keeping up with class assignments. Also, counseling an entire class will allow an opportunity to address fears or crises that may have impacted many, if not all, students in the class.

Teams and Clubs Counseling

• Teams and clubs in schools spend time out of the classroom together. It is necessary for children actively involved in extracurricular activities to remain on top of their studies as well. Pressures can come with joining teams and groups because of competitiveness. Children can receive counseling to maintain the balance between homework and school activities. Counseling will also allow for healthy relationships between all members of a group or team. When team members work well together, it will help them all reach success in their activities.

Peer Conflict Counseling

• When there are conflicts between two or more students at school, group counseling will work to resolve the issue. Attending school comes with pressures of fitting in, which can sometimes create cliques and popularity contests. For children who choose not to conform to certain groups, there is a risk for ridicule and bullying. It is important to counsel children through their differences to keep the peace between students. Equality and acceptance should be addressed during peer conflicts.

Sibling Counseling

• If students attend school with their siblings, this is a good opportunity to group them together for counseling services. Sibling competition may come from academic achievements at school. Counseling will explore this issue among others, such as dealing with divorce, mourning a loss of a loved one and dealing with illness or addiction. Having sibling can create a support system, but it can also cause arguments. Having counseling services available may resolve problems without affecting a student's performance in school.