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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.

Fall 2023 Groups

Wednesdays, 2 – 3 p.m., starting October 11
CPG Office (114 Woodland Street)

Come recharge and join other students at the CPG Office for a guided meditation break. Come for one session or for all of them. It is entirely up to you.

Contact Shawn McGuirk at smcguirk@clarku.edu  if you are interested.

Wednesdays, 3 – 4 p.m., starting October 4
CPG Office (114 Woodland Street)

BIPOC Healing Space is a community-building and therapeutic space for BIPOC students to come together and connect with other BIPOC students to discuss topics related to mental health. By building community with one another, we hope participants in this group can access a unique resilience including pride, excellence, and resistance to oppression. We will be discussing topics including, but not limited to, microaggressions, imposter syndrome, racial trauma, family pressures and dynamics, codeswitching, etc.

If you are interested, please email Mary Xatse at mxatse@clarku.edu.

Mondays, 3 p.m., starting October 16
CPG Office (114 Woodland Street)

Are you coping with any form of anxiety including chronic worry, social anxiety, obsessive thoughts, health-related worry, and panic attacks? Come connect with others to get a better understanding of how people learn to be relaxed and find relief from their anxiety.

Leader: Justin Donovan. If you are interested, please email Justin at judonovan@clarku.edu.

Thursdays, 3 p.m., currently running
CPG Office (114 Woodland Street)

This group is a space to build Queer community, process topics related to LGBTQIA+ students’ experiences at Clark and beyond, and generally cultivate connection through conversation, art making, games, and whatever other activities group members are interested in. This group is open to any student who identifies as a member of the Queer/LGBTQIA+ community. In a time marked by such virulent attacks on our community’s rights and safety, this group offers a space for shared grieving, collaborative healing, and relentless celebration of Queer Joy.

Interested folks can either email Rachel Brazie at rbrazie@clarku.edu or simply show up to join.

Wednesdays, 3 p.m., October 4 – November 29
Leah Manzella’s Office, CPG (114 Woodland Street)

This is a support group for people with Learning Disabilities and who identify as neurodiverse that would like to expand their social skills, connect with peers, and develop skills to manage anxiety.

Anyone interested in the group may contact Leah at lmanzella@clarku.edu.

Thursdays, 3 – 4 p.m., starting September 28
Inquire for location

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.

If interested, please email Alex Goldmeier at alex.goldmeier@clarku.edu with any questions, for the location, and to enroll in the group.

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