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We know what you’re thinking. Groups? Seriously?

Before you condemn the idea of joining a group at CPG, consider some things. We live in a technological age that is doing its best to disconnect us from one another, and many students talk about feeling alone. Others talk about their worries that everyone else seems happy and put-together but they feel like something isn’t right when it comes to themselves. Groups are the perfect way for all of us to learn how to authentically connect with one another, and to experience what it is like to show your real self and see that others will accept and care for you anyway. That connection — showing your real self — is the key factor of groups.

Many students question, “If I say something in a group, will my stuff get blabbed out to the rest of campus?” In our years at CPG doing groups, this has never been an issue — not once. Confidentiality is a rule for all groups, and group members respect one another and hold to that promise. So, seriously, take a chance. We are offering a large number of groups this year because we feel so strongly about them. Check them out.

Groups at CPG for Spring 2023

Do you identify as BIPOC? Are you looking to connect with other BIPOC students to discuss topics related to BIPOC mental health? This group is designed to be a healing and affinity space for BIPOC students to gather and form a community. By building community with one another, we can access a unique resilience including pride, excellence, and resistance to oppression. Participants will have the opportunity to increase mental health awareness and personal responsibility within a supportive and brave social context of respect and empowerment. Topics related to BIPOC mental health include, but are not limited to, microaggressions, imposter syndrome, racial trauma, family pressures and dynamics, and codeswitching. Group members will discuss current issues, address old wounds, and support one another as community members.

  • This group will be held on Wednesdays at 3 p.m., starting March 1 at CPG
  • Mikayla Wynter, Mary Xatse, Kalin Long
  • If you are interested in attending this group, please email Mikayla Wynter

We invite people who identify as being on the Autism spectrum to participate in this group. No formal diagnosis is required; this group offers a safe space for students who identify with having ASD. The group will discuss experiences related to neurodiverse thinking and social/relationship skills; this is a time to share your experiences, difficulties, and questions related to social situations, executive functioning struggles (organizing, studying, initiating work, maintaining calendars, etc.), strategies for positive social interactions, sensory integration, and other topics of interest. Psychoeducation and skills will be interwoven as needs present themselves.

We encourage students to come with questions, difficulties, concerns, and an attitude of openness, nonjudgment, and engagement. We want to create a safe space while having fun — come invest in trying something new for yourself!

  • This group will be held on Wednesdays at 3 p.m., starting February 8 at CPG
  • Leaders: Leah Manzella
  • If you are interested in this group, email Leah Manzella

Are you coping with any form of anxiety including chronic worry, social anxiety, obsessive thoughts, health-related worry, and panic attacks? Come get a better understanding of what anxiety is and how you can begin the path to becoming a calmer, more relaxed person.

  • This 5-session workshop will be held on Mondays from 2-3 p.m., starting February 13 at CPG
  • Leader: Shawn McGuirk
  • If you are interested, please email Shawn McGuirk

The Student Support Network Program (SSN) provides education about mental health issues, as well as learning how to support others who may be struggling with their own mental health.

Check out the full description of the SSN at: https://www.clarku.edu/offices/counseling/student-involvement

  • Sessions will be held Wednesdays from 2-2:45 p.m., starting February 15 at CPG
  • Leader: Shawn McGuirk
  • If you think you might be interested in participating in this 6-week program, please email Shawn McGuirk

When you lose someone you love, you experience feelings that are unpredictable and confusing. The Center for Counseling and Personal Growth is creating a safe space for you to explore your grief and identify how to communicate these feelings. Sharing grief with others on their own paths of mourning helps heal the pain of losing a loved one. Support groups can give additional comfort and reassurance while you manage your emotions through a difficult time.

  • Sessions will be on Thursdays at 3 p.m., beginning on March 2 at CPG
  • Leaders: Leah Manzella and Matthew Mason
  • If you are interested in this group, email Leah Manzella

The use of alcohol and other substances is prevalent and normative on a college campus. Young people who persistently misuse substances often may experience an array of problems, including but not limited to academic difficulties, health-related problems including mental health, poor peer relationships, financial distress, and risk of overdose/death. If you are committed to recovery, having any difficulties with your use, are questioning recovery, or are just curious about a sober lifestyle, this group is here to support you! This group serves as an open safe space to freely discuss anything related to this topic to help individuals recover and learn how to find serenity.

  • This 6-session workshop will be held on Thursdays from 3-4 p.m., starting March 2 at 202 Goddard
  • Leader: Alex Goldmeier
  • If you are interested in this group, please email Alex Goldmeier

This is a therapeutic support and process group for any and all LGBTQIA+ identified folx to connect and discuss sexuality, gender, experiences, and anything else that comes along with being a member of this community.

  • This group will begin Thursday, February 2 at 1 p.m. and occur biweekly until the end of the semester
  • Leaders: Stephanie Narahara and Becca Butler
  • Please RSVP if you would like to attend, and reach out to Steph Narahara or Becca Butler at CPG if you have any questions.
Contact Information

Center for Counseling & Personal Growth

Office Information
  • 114 Woodland Street
    Worcester, MA 01610

  • 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday (closed from 12 – 1 p.m.)

  • 1-508-793-7678
  • counseling[at]clarku[dot]edu