Winter Term Groups
Counseling Services
Benefits of Group Counseling
Joining a group of strangers may sound intimidating at first, but group therapy provides benefits that individual therapy may not.
Regularly talking and listening to others helps you put your own problems in perspective. Many people experience difficulties, but few speak openly about them to people they don't know well. Oftentimes, you may feel like you are the only one struggling — but you're not. It can be a relief to hear others discuss what they're going through, and realize you're not alone.
Diversity is another important benefit of group therapy. People have different personalities and backgrounds, and they look at situations in different ways. By seeing how other people tackle problems and make positive changes, you can discover a whole range of strategies for facing your own concerns.
Joining a Group
All groups are open, meaning that students can join at any time. An intake session with a counselor is required before joining a group. You can schedule an intake session by contacting Counseling Services at 309.341.7492 or at counseling@knox.edu. During the intake, the counselor will speak with you about your concerns and what services best align with your needs.
If you are interested in a particular group, mention it to the counselor during your session. If you are already seeing a counselor, feel free to voice any interest in a group during a regular session.
Winter Term Groups
Gaining Self-Esteem
Tuesdays at 2:45pm, beginning on 1/23.
This group is for students who would like to feel positive about themselves, learn about what matters to them, and reduce negative thoughts in a supportive, confidential environment.
Depression Group
Tuesdays at 5:00pm, beginning on 1/23.
This is an open group for students who experience a depressed mood that interferes with their everyday life. The focus will be on education and practical techniques. Each session will have a topic, but will adjust to the needs of group members that week.
Group 101
Wednesdays at 2:45pm, beginning on 1/17.
This general process group will provide opportunities for students to discuss issues and concerns that create stumbling blocks to success. Topics may include relationships, communication styles, stress management, and general life concerns.
Survivors of Sexual Assault
Wednesdays at 5:00pm, beginning on 1/17.
This confidential group is for individuals who are survivors of sexual trauma. This group provides a safe space for students to receive support and discuss their trauma without fear of being judged.
Anxiety Group
Thursdays at 2:45pm or at 5:00pm, beginning on 1/18.
This group is for students who experience excessive anxiety or worry. The focus will be on shared experiences and practical techniques. Each session will adjust to the needs of group members that week. There are two sections of this group available as shown in the times above.
Upcoming Events
Mental Health Screening Day
Stop by our office and take a free and anonymous mental health assessment. Your assessment will be scored and you will meet with a counselor, in a confidential setting to go over results, discuss resources, and set up treatment if needed. Screenings detect for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, bi-polar, eating, and substance abuse disorders.
Wednesday, Jan 10, 2018, 10:00 AM
Counseling Services (Furrow Hall)
Reframing Winter
Winter is what you make it! Come have fun learning about ways to improve your perspective about winter, by putting a positive spin on it! There will be activities, food, and winter fun!
Tuesday, Jan 16, 2018, 05:00 PM
Post Hall Lobby
Addressing the Stigma of Mental Health in Communities of Color
Communities of color are less likely to reach out for help when they are having mental health concerns. Join us to discuss what contributes to this and what you can do to help break down the stigma in your community.
Tuesday, Jan 30, 2018, 07:00 PM
Ferris Lounge (Seymour Hall)
Counseling Services
Making an appointment is easy! Calling is the fastest way to schedule an appointment, but you can also visit our office or send us an email!
Current Staff:
Janell McGruder – Director, Counselor
Megan Downs – Counselor
Cody Maddock – Counselor
Claire Palmer – Intake Coordinator
Vicki Swedlund - Administrative Assistant
Email: counseling@knox.edu
Website: https://www.knox.edu/offices/health-and-counseling-center/counseling-services
Location: Furrow Hall, 175 West Knox St.
Phone: 309-341-7492
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/knoxcollegecounselingservices/