Introduction and Concept
Traditionally, counselling has been viewed as a one-on-one process, but group counselling has gained popularity due to several practical advantages. One major reason for its acceptance is cost-effectiveness—helping several individuals simultaneously conserves scarce resources such as trained personnel and finances. Additionally, in group settings, individuals often lose their sense of singular identity and tend to respond more naturally, facilitating the change of attitudes, beliefs, feelings, and needs.
Group counselling is particularly beneficial for individuals who may be shy, aggressive, anxious, or resistant to social norms. It also serves specialized groups such as alcoholics or substance abusers effectively.
What is Group Counselling?
Group counselling extends the individual counselling model to a small number of participants who work collectively with a professional counsellor. The primary aim is to create a supportive interpersonal atmosphere that helps each member gain insight into themselves and their issues. Communication is open and free among members, allowing them to understand different viewpoints and benefit from the group’s dynamics.
The group setting enables participants to share and analyze problems collectively, offering emotional support and fostering self-acceptance. Over time, group cohesion strengthens, producing a shared sense of direction and purpose.
In schools, group counselling emphasizes preventive and developmental goals—helping to prevent problems and promoting harmonious growth—since most students are typically functioning normally.
Assumptions Underlying Group Counselling
Trust and Concern: Members have the ability to trust one another and show genuine concern, creating a secure environment for sharing.
Self-Responsibility: Each member can take responsibility for their own change; those who feel controlled by others may respond with disruptive behavior.
Learning from Group Process: Members can benefit from understanding and applying group objectives and methodologies, focusing on personal reform rather than conformity.
Structuring Groups
Selection and Induction: Members are usually chosen through personal interviews to build rapport and explain group expectations, confidentiality, and benefits.
Size: Ideal group size is 6–10 members. Too large groups become difficult to manage, while too small groups limit resources and increase pressure.
Composition: Groups may be heterogeneous or homogeneous based on issues, age, gender, etc. Extreme differences or disruptive individuals are avoided to maintain a supportive atmosphere.
Frequency and Duration: Sessions are often weekly or biweekly. School groups usually run 11–15 weeks with shorter sessions suitable for younger students.
Physical Setting: Privacy and freedom from interruptions are essential. Flexible seating in a circle is preferred to encourage open communication.
Stages of Group Counselling
Initial Exploratory Stage: Members are often strangers and hesitant. The counsellor models warmth, genuineness, and non-judgmental attitudes to build trust.
Transition Stage: Members begin to self-disclose more deeply but may show resistance, anxiety, or conflict as they face painful feelings. The counsellor helps work through these challenges.
Working Stage: Trust and intimacy deepen, allowing members to support each other and work toward goals. The counsellor encourages honest confrontation and practical application of insights.
Consolidation and Termination: Preparation for ending the group is planned in advance, allowing members to review progress, handle emotional challenges, and receive guidance for continued growth after the group ends.
Advantages of Group Counselling
- Economical and time-saving by helping multiple individuals simultaneously.
- Facilitates socialization and sharing of attitudes, habits, and judgments.
- Offers realistic social experiences and peer feedback.
- Reduces feelings of isolation and depression.
- Provides counsellors a chance to observe clients in social contexts.
Limitations of Group Counselling
- Not suitable for everyone—some may find groups intimidating or have low tolerance for group demands.
- Deeply personal issues may be difficult to discuss openly.
- Counsellors have less control and may find it harder to build individual rapport.
- The suitability of group counselling depends on the individual and the problem type.
Individual vs. Group Counselling
| Aspect | Individual Counselling | Group Counselling |
|---|---|---|
| Format | One-on-one face-to-face interaction | One counsellor with multiple clients |
| Interaction | Client receives help only | Clients both receive and give help |
| Dynamics | Focus on client-counsellor relationship | Focus on group dynamics and peer interactions |
| Goals | Self-understanding, personal growth | Same as individual but includes social learning |
| Privacy | Complete confidentiality | Confidentiality maintained, but less private |
| Client type | Usually normal individuals with personal concerns | Similar, but with social interaction emphasis |
