How to Run an Effective Group Kasie Coulombe The Early Intervention Program Leanne Paisley Regional Opioid Intervention Service

Introductions Stationed at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre and some of our programs are funded by the Ministry of Child and Youth Services Groups with the Early Intervention Program are geared to adolescents at risk for developing substance abuse or related problems and focus on identifying and developing strengths and resilience 14 years combined experience running groups

Why are groups important?

Where to Start? Questions you need to answer… What type of group Group composition Size Frequency and duration of meetings Length of group

Where to Start? Questions you need to answer… Setting Voluntary vs. involuntary Open vs. closed Who – To run the group – To be in the group Self-identification vs. teacher/admin referral

Getting Support Success of the intervention depends upon the support from administration and teachers Presentation at school staff meeting Flexibility with meeting times Open Communication

How to Encourage Interest

Exercise – Choosing Group Members Break into small groups Using the provided handout, select 6 students out of the 10 described to form a group

Getting Started Decisions as a group: Discussion of confidentiality and limits Establishing group rules and discussing consequences for breaking group rules

Content vs. Process “the what” “the how”

Content vs. Process Examples of process: – Atmosphere – Participation – Decision-Making – Influence – Membership – Non-verbal Communication

Stages of Group Development Forming Storming Norming Performing Adjourning

Tasks of the Facilitator FormingDIRECTING Structuring the group and setting the tone Clarifying goals and expectations Building group connections StormingMANAGING Resolving points of conflict Normalizing tension and discomfort Being a non-anxious catalyst for confrontation NormingCONSULTING Defining one’s position and ideas Sharing leadership role Incorporating diversity and creativity PerformingSUPPORTING Celebrating group performance Letting go to support group process Preparing for closure & evaluation issues Adapted from VanKatwyk, Helping Style Inventory (module I,iv) and Laikin (1991).

Encouraging Student Participation Start Small – Ice breakers Provide Snacks – Think Maslow’s hierarchy of needs Be Creative! Last Check-in

Group Dynamics What should you do? Address the issue immediately or later? Address the issue in front of the group or individually?

Group Leadership Techniques Demonstrate genuine interest and understanding with the following skills: 1.Active Listening 2.Open Ended Questions 3.Affirmations 4.Reflecting

Thank You! Questions? Comments? Leanne Paisley – Kasie Coulombe –