Groups
There are numerous opportunities for youth to reflect upon choices they have made and/or learn skills to enhance their knowledge in a guided group process.
Various groups are available depending on the program the youth resides in and may run daily, weekly or monthly. At any given time a youth may be required to become involved in: Skill Based and Information groups, Process groups, Expressive Arts groups, Relaxation groups and possibly Adventure Based Counseling (ABC) Groups.
The objective and structures of the groups vary depending on the staff organizing the material. Groups are primarily led by the Child and Youth Care Counselors but may be organized by the clinician, recreation staff, nurse or possibly a practicum student. The staff running the group will explain the expectations, content and goals of each session. It is the client’s responsibility to learn as much information they can so they are more prepared to make healthy decisions in their life or perhaps bring understanding to their situation. Groups may involve discussion, activities, writing exercises, games or videos. Occasionally guest speakers are brought in for specific topics.
It is generally discussed at intake which groups would be most suitable for each client to attend based on input from the client, case worker, parents and treatment team. On-going communication occurs within the treatment team to discuss progress and learning outcomes of groups on each client.
The groups offered may include but are not limited to:
- Social skills
- Anger Management
- Conflict Resolution
- Healthy Relationships
- Substance Abuse Education
- Life skills
- Creative arts activities
As the needs of the client population changes, the skill building elements of the groups are adjusted accordingly.
