HMS 141-142 - Group Dynamics I - II (3 CR.)

Course Description

This course is designed to acquaint students with the didactic and experiential practice of group dynamics and group counseling processes. Students will engage in systematic self-exploration, which leads to disclosures of relevant issues in substance abuse and mental health. Students will be expected to integrate prior knowledge & skills from Substance Abuse I & II (HMS 251-262) and Counseling Skills I (HMS 121)

General Course Purpose

The course is designed to fulfill in part, the requirements for the AAS degree in Human Services/Substance Abuse and, in part to meet State Certification requirements in Substance Abuse.

Course Prerequisites/Corequisites

Prerequisite: Substance Abuse I, II (HMS 251, 252) Counseling Skills I (HMS 121)

Course Objectives

  • Self-exploration of personally relevant material
  • Responding to group members
  • Personalizing with self:
    • Defining problems and personal goals
    • Defining deficits, assets and values
  • Using confrontation in groups with the chemically dependent client (including self)
  • Using the skill of self-disclosure
  • Responding with immediacy (between group members)

Major Topics to Be Included

  • Students will maintain a weekly journal (log) of their personal experience as a group member.
  • Students are required to identify and share one or more personal problems or issues during the life of the group.
  • Students will take action on personal insights acquired in the group through relevant homework.
  • Students must attend all classes.
  • Students will complete a minimum of two observations of counseling groups within a human service agency.
  • Students must meet at least twice as a group away from the classroom.
  • Students must use video equipment for processing feedback for group members.