Group Counseling Schedule

Sign up online: uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6R9l4ODg2t4qn6C

This five-session workshop will teach you about the various causes of attention problems in college students, including ADHD. Sessions will contain skills for managing traits of ADHD, including optimizing self-care, mental health, study skills, and using technology wisely. Each session starts with an exercise or activity component guided by RecWell instructors, as physical activity is an important aspect of mental health and optimal cognitive functioning. These skills will help improve overall health and time management, with the goal of leading to increased academic success and quality of life.

Mondays | in person
Session 1: September 18 – October 16
Session 2: October 23 – November 20
3:30 – 5 p.m.
Group leaders: Melanie Daovannary, PsyD & Julie Silverman, MA, MFT, R-DMT

Sign up online: uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bDHluMCoftY8Swe

One-hour virtual program that share strategies to navigate a feature of grad culture with the opportunity for participants to share experiences and ask questions. Open to all currently enrolled graduate students. All workshops are held on Thursdays from 4 – 5 p.m.

September 28 | Navigating Workloads: Essentials of productivity (organization, motivation, prioritizing)

October 12 | Grad-ification: Personal thriving (impostor phenomena, work/life balance, self-care)

November 2 | Life in the Grad Lane: navigating uncertainty (ambiguity, changing demands)

November 16 | Relationship Fitness: tools for better partnerships

November 30 | Quick Tools to Relax: simple & fun

Group leader: Jo Hoese, PhD

Sign up online: https://uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6yZOEwYlh9xleBg

A two-session workshop designed to help students with symptoms of anxiety and depression foster acceptance and cope effectively. Participants will learn new ways to manage the cognitive, behavioral, and physiological aspects of anxiety and depression. In a supportive, psychoeducational setting, students will gain greater awareness, skills and strategies, and practices that promote lifelong self-care.

Workshops are held on Mondays from 10:30 a.m. to Noon.

• September 11 and September 18
• September 25 and October 2
• October 9 and October 16
• October 23 and October 30
• November 6 and November 13
• December 4 and December 11

Group leader: PJ Young, LPC

Sign up online: uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_eeoPs8V4am9SyWi

Single-session workshops focused on providing participants with information and strategies to confront common challenges and enhance academic success.
Come to any or all three sessions. All workshops are held on Wednesdays from 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.

Make the Most of Your Time
September 13, October 4, October 25, November 15
This workshop is designed to teach students time management skills. Participants will learn techniques to organize and optimize their use of time in order to enhance efficiency and support overall academic success.

Focus Your Attention
September 20, October 11, November 1, November 29
This workshop is centered on increasing self-awareness, focus and attention. Participants will practice an array of strategies designed to strengthen attention, initiate and prioritize tasks, and minimize distractions and procrastination. If your mind was more focused on the here and now just think what you might accomplish.

Take Down Test Anxiety
September 27, October 18, November 8, December 6, December 13
This workshop is intended to help students manage test anxiety. Even when adequately prepared, it is common for students to experience anxiety before, during, and after exams. Participants will learn strategies to reduce anxiety that interferes with focus and recall of information.

Group leaders: Davida Randolph, MAEd, NCC & Isabella Annan, BA

Sign up online: uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5uKmenQdURHMIPI

This group will include basic meditation instructions for those new to meditation followed by a group mindfulness meditation. Opportunity will be given for questions and discussion. In addition, each week a specialized meditation will be offered, for example: grounding and centering, body scan, movement meditation, compassion practices, emotional release practices, meditation with a mantra/point of focus, and breathing practices. This group is intended for both new and experienced meditators. You are welcome to drop in once at any point during the semester, though we encourage you to develop a regular weekly practice with us.

Wednesdays | 3:30 – 4:30 pm

• September 27
• October 4, 11, 18, 25
• November 1, 8, 15, 29
• December 6

Group leader: Tamar Kelson, PhD

Sign up online: uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0lErx4JVkCeGUFE

Practice the skills of mindfulness in this multi-week workshop series. Increase self-understanding, present moment awareness, and strengthen your capacity to address stressful daily challenges toward a more vital and valued life. Come to any or all eight sessions throughout the semester.

All sessions are held on Tuesdays from 2:30-4 p.m.

Session 1: Mindfulness for Managing Uncertainty
October 10
Strengthen your ability to notice and be responsive to your self-care needs during these uncertain times, cultivating an effective balance between structure and flexibility.

Session 2: Mindfulness of Thoughts
October 17
Learn to notice thoughts without getting hooked by distressing worry or self-defeating patterns.

Session 3: Mindfulness of Behaviors
October 24
Increase ability to act intentionally, which can improve motivation, concentration, and reaching goals in activities of daily living.

Session 4: Mindfulness of Emotions
October 31
Apply mindfulness to cultivate more positive and balanced feelings regarding yourself and the world around you.

Session 5: Mindfulness of Body
November 7
Focus on the mind/body connection, increasing body awareness to help manage stress and pain as well as improve overall self-care.

Session 6: Mindfulness for Coping with Anxiety and Depression
November 14
Acquire strategies for observing and unhooking from anxious and depressive spirals, with a focus on being in the present moment rather than living only in the past, future, or on autopilot.

Session 7: Mindfulness for Compassion and Self-Compassion
November 28
Apply mindfulness to cultivate more kindness and warmth toward yourself and others.

Session 8: Mindfulness for End of Semester Stress
December 5
Learn and practice relevant mindfulness-based strategies for coping with end of semester stress and develop a plan with specific next steps for navigating end of semester stress.

Group leader: Tamar Kelson, PhD

Sign up online: uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1NXCDODSqte0sS2

This is a free three-week series of workshops for students interested in trying something new and hanging with others at the Wheelhouse Studios in the lower level of Memorial Union. No artistic experience is required. A typical session will include time for art making, sharing artwork (if you want to), and connecting with fellow participants. All sessions will be facilitated by Wheelhouse Studios Program Director Gabrielle Javier-Cerulli, MA and MHS staff.

All sessions take place Fridays, 11 a.m. – Noon.

October 27 – Wood burning
Studio O
MHS facilitator: Wei-Chiao Hsu

November 3 – Pin button making
Studio G
MHS facilitator: Liz Axtell

November 10: Clay bottles/vases
Studio G
MHS facilitator: Chynna Lewis

Sign up online: https://uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4SmBVICtyKfDdWu 

International students experience challenges in the process of adjusting to life in the United States and the academic environment of UW-Madison. These may include, but are not limited to, culture shock, homesickness, social isolation, language and communication barriers, and prejudice and discrimination. This group strives to provide a space for international students to share their experiences and build connections, resilience, and a sense of belonging. This group is open to undergraduate or graduate students.

Wednesdays | 10:30 a.m. – Noon
Group leaders: Geetanjali Deole, MS & Shreya Singh, MS

A group for students domestic and international students who self-identify as part of the APIDA (Asian Pacific Islander Desi American) community – which is inclusive of, but not limited to: East Asian, Southeast Asian, South Asian, and Pacific Islander diasporic identities, as well as multiracial and multiethnic APIDA identities. Facilitators strive to provide a safe and supportive environment for APIDA students to explore feelings related to racially oppressive experiences, strengthen self-concept through conversation and connection, and help one another navigate academic and social experiences on campus.

Mondays | 3 – 4:30 pm (in-person)
Group leaders: Tang Yang, APSW & Kathleen Monmany, APSW

This is a group for students who self-identify as women of African descent. The group aims to provide a safe, supportive, and empowering environment for Black women to explore their intersecting identities. Members in this group will have opportunities to share both joys and frustrations that come along with the experience of being a Black female college student.

Mondays | 3 – 4:30 pm
Group leaders:  Kayla Eggen, LCSW & Brittany Howell, MS, LPC

Do you expend all of your energy in meeting other people’s needs? Do you feel trapped in your relationships? Are you the one that is constantly making sacrifices so that others around you will be happy? Do you feel excessive anxiety about receiving criticism or making a mistake? You may be struggling with codependency, which can show up in relationships with friends, romantic partners, or family members. Codependent relationships are a struggle for many. Adopting new methods of demonstrating compassion, while at the same time setting healthy boundaries, can free you of the painful burden of feeling you are responsible for others’ happiness.

This group provides a space for students to connect with and relate to others who have similar struggles, and join them in learning how to have healthier and more fulfilling relationships. The group will combine information, personal sharing, discussion, and support, while also providing solutions for students who want to create more meaningful connections to others.

Wednesdays| 3 – 4:30 pm (in-person)
Group leaders: Gina Williamson, PhD & Victoria Trittin, BSW

This is a therapy group for anyone who is willing to take risks in creating art to expand ways of communication, self-expression, and connection with others. No artistic experience is required and the group will be focused on the experience of art making rather than on making “good” art. A typical group session will include time for art making based on a prompt or personal inspiration, sharing of artwork, and connecting with group members. Access to art materials is not a requirement of this group; co-facilitators will discuss options for materials during the pre-group orientation. 

Mondays | 10:30 a.m. – Noon (in person) 

Group leaders: Mariessa Robles, PsyD & Bri Buhr, MA 

A supportive group environment focused on the emotional, behavioral, and organizational challenges associated with the dissertation process. Participants establish individual weekly research and personal goals, and share experiences and perspectives around common themes (e.g., procrastination, careers on or beyond the tenure track, advisor etiquette, and juggling multiple life roles).

Tuesdays| Noon – 1:30 pm
Group leader: Jo Hoese, PhD

A space for students to explore their relationship with food, movement, and their bodies, and connect with peers around these shared experiences. Group facilitators are mental health professionals that foster a space that is open, affirming, and recovery-oriented for all members, with a focus on helping group members provide one another with encouragement and shared accountability. Anti-diet and Health at Every Size principles are foundational to the group.

Fridays | 10:30 am – Noon
Group leaders: Andie Schwabe, MS, LPC-IT & Kallie Horton, MSEd, EdS

This group will examine the sources of stress, ways of coping, and the value of peer support in adjusting to the challenges of being a graduate student. Topics will be developed by group members, but may include: time management, financial stress, relationship concerns, burnout, isolation, and maintaining balance.

Mondays | 1 – 2:30 pm
Group leaders: Felix Savino, PhD & Chynna Lewis, MSW

This group helps participants express and explore emotions related to their experiences of bereavement. Open to people who have lost a loved one (e.g., family member, friend). Combines sharing, discussion, support, and activities.

Fridays | 1 – 2:30 pm (in person)
Group leader: Tommy Wild, PhD & Liz Axtell, MA

Hearts & Crafts is an informal drop in space where students can come do various artistic activities with in-community counselors who are readily available resources to the students.

Tuesdays | 1 – 2:30 pm (in person at the GSCC)
Group leaders: Annie Bruns, APSW & Sam Herlitzke, LMFT

International students experience challenges in the process of adjusting to life in the United States and the academic environment of UW-Madison. These may include, but are not limited to, culture shock, homesickness, social isolation, language and communication barriers, and prejudice and discrimination. This group strives to provide a space for international students to share their experiences and build connections, resilience, and a sense of belonging. This group is open to undergraduate or graduate students.

Tuesdays | 10:30 – Noon (Mandarin-speaking, in person)
Group leader: Wei-Chiao Hsu, PhD & Qiang Xie, MEd

A support group for students who are navigating sexual and/or gender identity development and acceptance. Students who identify as bisexual, gay, lesbian, queer, questioning, transgender, or any other personally meaningful term are all welcome to this group. Focus is on establishing positive connections with others and exploring the process of integrating one’s sexual and gender identities in authentic, self-affirming ways.

Wednesdays | 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Group leaders: Kari Treu, MSE, LPC-IT & Austin Folger, MS

This is a semi-structured group for people who strive to feel worthy, to extend kindness to themselves, and to understand how to be your own best friend. Topics that will be explored include self-esteem, self-compassion, shame and guilt, vulnerability, and authenticity. Group members will engage in various activities such as journaling and mindfulness with periodic work outside of session.

Wednesdays | 3 – 4:30 p.m.
Group leaders: Heidi Binder, PsyD & Charles Woods, MA

This is a group for any student who self-identifies as a person of color. The group will explore ways in which their identity as a student of color affects their academic, personal, and social experiences. Facilitators strive to provide a safe and supportive environment for students of color to explore feelings related to racially oppressive experiences, strengthen self-concept through conversation and connection, and help one another navigate academic and social experiences on campus.

Fridays | 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Group leaders: Molly Willihnganz, MS, LMFT & Hannah Glenn, BA

A support and psychoeducational group for students who are navigating gender identity developments and acceptance. Students who identity as transgender, gender non-conforming, genderqueer, and any other personally meaningful term are all welcome to this group. Focus is on establishing positive connections with others and exploring the process of integrating gender identity in an authentic, self-affirming way.  

Fridays | 1:30 – 3 p.m. (in-person)
Group leaders: Mariessa Robles, PsyD & Dean Dvorak, BS

If things sometimes turn out differently than you expect when drinking or using other substances, there are ways to facilitate a better outcome. Join fellow students for discussions about your life, what goes well and what still needs some improvement. Learn skills that can be helpful in whatever goals you are hoping to achieve, like mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. Group remains open through the semester, and all are welcome.

Thursdays | 1 – 2:30 pm
Group leaders: Geoff Brown, LPC & Davida Randolph, MAEd, NCC

Step away from your screen and meet us outdoors for some connection on the green! Join us for an experiential process and support group for survivors to connect, build community, and reclaim space through mindfulness and nature excursion. This group will meet outdoors and invite group members to participate in guided meditation, breathing practices, and somatic grounding exercises. There will be opportunity for discussion, reflection, and connection with other group members. Please note, confidentiality may be limited due to the public setting. Please feel free to bring pillows, blankets, or chairs for comfort when sitting outside; snacks welcome and encouraged!

Thursdays | 1:30 –  3 p.m. (in person)
Group leaders: Kendall Ferguson, APSW & Kayla Eggen, LCSW

Sign up online: uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_8FYmBs86NDodM0e

This is a drop-in space for  student survivors to connect with peers and offer mutual support in a confidential and safe environment. The group facilitators will foster a space that is open and affirming for all members while guiding members through sensory- and movement-based coping skills. Group will focus on navigating the impact of trauma experiences through connection & skills to support post-traumatic growth. This group is specifically for students who experienced sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, sexual harassment, stalking, and/or childhood sexual abuse.

Wednesdays | 3 – 4:30 pm (in person)
Group Leaders: Carol Heins-Daniels, APSW & Alex Little, MSW

Sign up online: uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5uKmenQdURHMIPI

This group will include basic meditation instructions for those new to meditation followed by a group mindfulness meditation. Opportunity will be given for questions and discussion. In addition, each week a specialized meditation will be offered, for example: grounding and centering, body scan, movement meditation, compassion practices, emotional release practices, meditation with a mantra/point of focus, and breathing practices. This group is intended for both new and experienced meditators. You are welcome to drop in once at any point during the semester, though we encourage you to develop a regular weekly practice with us.

Wednesdays | 3:30 – 4:30 pm

• September 27
• October 4, 11, 18, 25
• November 1, 8, 15, 29
• December 6

Group leader: Tamar Kelson, PhD

Sign up online: uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0lErx4JVkCeGUFE

Practice the skills of mindfulness in this multi-week workshop series. Increase self-understanding, present moment awareness, and strengthen your capacity to address stressful daily challenges toward a more vital and valued life. Come to any or all eight sessions throughout the semester.

All sessions are held on Tuesdays from 2:30-4 p.m.

Session 1: Mindfulness for Managing Uncertainty
October 10
Strengthen your ability to notice and be responsive to your self-care needs during these uncertain times, cultivating an effective balance between structure and flexibility.

Session 2: Mindfulness of Thoughts
October 17
Learn to notice thoughts without getting hooked by distressing worry or self-defeating patterns.

Session 3: Mindfulness of Behaviors
October 24
Increase ability to act intentionally, which can improve motivation, concentration, and reaching goals in activities of daily living.

Session 4: Mindfulness of Emotions
October 31
Apply mindfulness to cultivate more positive and balanced feelings regarding yourself and the world around you.

Session 5: Mindfulness of Body
November 7
Focus on the mind/body connection, increasing body awareness to help manage stress and pain as well as improve overall self-care.

Session 6: Mindfulness for Coping with Anxiety and Depression
November 14
Acquire strategies for observing and unhooking from anxious and depressive spirals, with a focus on being in the present moment rather than living only in the past, future, or on autopilot.

Session 7: Mindfulness for Compassion and Self-Compassion
November 28
Apply mindfulness to cultivate more kindness and warmth toward yourself and others.

Session 8: Mindfulness for End of Semester Stress
December 5
Learn and practice relevant mindfulness-based strategies for coping with end of semester stress and develop a plan with specific next steps for navigating end of semester stress.

Group leader: Tamar Kelson, PhD

Sign up online: uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1NXCDODSqte0sS2

This is a free three-week series of workshops for students interested in trying something new and hanging with others at the Wheelhouse Studios in the lower level of Memorial Union. No artistic experience is required. A typical session will include time for art making, sharing artwork (if you want to), and connecting with fellow participants. All sessions will be facilitated by Wheelhouse Studios Program Director Gabrielle Javier-Cerulli, MA and MHS staff.

All sessions take place Fridays, 11 a.m. – Noon.

October 27 – Wood burning
Studio O
MHS facilitator: Wei-Chiao Hsu

November 3 – Pin button making
Studio G
MHS facilitator: Liz Axtell

November 17: Clay bottles/vases
Studio G
MHS facilitator: Chris Haas