February 2,  2016

By Joannah Rivera

Beginning the second week of February, The Wellness Center will be starting two new group therapy sessions; “Understanding Self and Others” and “LGBTQ Identity.”

“In our [Group Therapy Sessions] we utilize here and now interventions that help raise awareness of how we relate to others, how we impact those around us, and how we are affected by others.” Said Michael Purcell, Assistant Clinical Director for Counseling Services at Dominican’s Wellness Center.

The “Understanding Self and Others” group session is about self-care. Students will learn from counselors and from their peers about caring for your relationship with yourself and with others. 

“Students find support in the commonality of stressors related to academics, finances, family, relationships, and other pressures.” Said Purcell.

The “LGBTQ Identity” group session deals with sexual identity. 

“Sexual identity, given in the culture we live in, takes some extra self care to be aware of,” states Stacy Gerberich, Counseling Intern at Dominican’s Wellness Center.

To sign up for either of these group sessions a triage appointment is required. This is a brief appointment with a counselor to determine what kind of therapy would be beneficial for each individual, whether that is group therapy, individual therapy or a mix of the two.

“We’re better together,” said Purcell, “We tend to find solutions to challenges we face in collaboration. Students benefit from the suggestions of peers.”

All conversations within the groups are confidential. The Wellness Center aims to provide students with a safe space where they can be vulnerable and have a meaningful experience. 

3:45 – 5 Understanding Self and others, Thursday, February 11th

2:30 – 3:45 Understanding Self and Others, Friday, Friday, February 12th

2:30 – 3:30 LGBTQ, every other Thursday starting the 4th.

rivejoan@my.dom.edu