Spring 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.
Spring Term Groups
Depression Group
Tuesdays at 5:00pm, beginning on 4/3.
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.
Gender Expressions
Wednesdays at 2:45 pm, beginning on 4/4.
This weekly group provides an opportunity for trans or gender nonconforming students a space to process their day-to-day concerns and to offer/receive support in a confidential and safe environment.
Survivors of Sexual Assault
Wednesdays at 5:00pm, beginning on 4/4.
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 Groups
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.
Mental Health Screening Day
Wednesday, Mar 28, 2018, 10:00 AM
Counseling Services (Furrow Hall)
Clothesline Project: Victim Services
The intention of the display is to honor survivors and act as a memorial for victims. It is also intended to aid in the healing process for those who were directly affected and those who have lost someone special to violence. The clothesline project is used to educate society and promote awareness, as well as to document violent crimes against others.
Wednesday, Apr 18, 2018, 11:00 AM
Plomin Terrace (Rain Location: Ferris Lounge)
Take Back the Night!
7:30pm - Speaker, Hope Pendleton with Safe Harbor
8:00pm - MARCH
8:30pm - Speak Out (for students only).Wednesday, Apr 18, 2018, 06:30 PM
Plomin Terrace (Rain Location: Ferris Lounge)
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 – Assistant Director, 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/