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In Today’s episode, Carrie is sharing her thoughts on the first stage of group work. This first session is all about forming connections and setting the tone for the future. Since this can be an intense experience for members, remember to be gentle and lead the group with kindness and empathy.
Here are some useful tips to help you structure your first session:
- Start on time. Invite members to show up at the exact time of the group. Not before.
- Get everybody’s voice in the room in the first 10 minutes
- Go through the participation agreement
- Model and set the tone for the group
- Acknowledge the presence of new and old members
- Be active in the beginning to reinforce appropriate behavior
- Make sure you’re looking around to see the members reaction
- Allow space
- Pay attention to behaviors that may put the group at risk and address it then and there
- Model the appropriate reaction to risk-taking
- Help members to feel positive about their choice to be in the group
- Let the group reflect on their first group experience
Visit the Art of Groups Website to learn more: www.artofgroups.com.
Connect with Carrie: carrie@artofgroups.com.
Direction and Original Idea: Carrie Haynes
Production: Laura Correa