Group Therapy
Group Based Services provide group-based counseling treatment services to UC students that address a variety of topics ranging from anxiety, depression, mindfulness to self-compassion and creative expression. Group therapy is often a treatment of choice for many students’ concerns. By engaging in group therapy, students can expect improved overall well-being and connection with others.
Groups are free and confidential for all UC enrolled students. Talk to a clinician and ask about our group counseling program to get connected and learn more. A pre-group appointment with the facilitator(s) is needed before attending a group. We offer a variety of groups each semester including support, theme focused, or general process therapy groups. Groups may be in-person or virtual.
To learn more about groups and get scheduled for a pre-group screen, please schedule a Rapid Access Counseling (RAC) appointment by calling us at 513-556-0648 during business hours (M-F, 8:30am-5:00pm), or by clicking the button below to access online scheduling:
If you are in need of crisis support or after hours care, dial 513-556-0648 and follow the prompts to be connected to care.
Group Therapy will return in Fall 2026
Previous group therapy offerings have included:
ARISE
The ARISE group is a gender-inclusive group for all survivors of sexual and/or relationship violence. ARISE group provides a safe and empowering space for group members to connect with other survivors, talk about their experiences, and identify what they need to move forward in their healing journey.
ARTFull Connections
ARTfull Connections is a free, weekly Art Therapy group held at UC’s DAAP building, open to all students—no art experience necessary. This group offers a safe, creative space to explore emotions, reduce stress, and reflect on personal and social issues through art-making and open conversations.
Balanced Living
This group offers a supportive, non-judgmental space for college students to explore their relationship with substances while prioritizing overall well-being and academic success. Using evidence-based harm reduction principles, we focus on practical strategies to minimize risks and enhance quality of life. Participants will learn valuable coping skills, engage in therapeutic practices, and develop personalized plans for balanced living.
Building Social Confidence
A supportive therapy group for UC students who want to strengthen their self-esteem, reduce self-doubt, and feel more confident in academic, social, and personal settings. Through skill-building activities, reflection, and discussion, students will explore how to challenge negative self-talk, set healthy boundaries, and build a more compassionate relationship with themselves.
Empow-her
A space for exploration and experiential learning of what may impact feeling connected and disconnected from self and others.
Mindful Self-Compassion
Learn effective strategies for a compassionate way to view yourself and others that improves mood, reduces stress, and builds healthy relationships.
Understanding Self and Others (Undergraduate and Graduate options)
Want to learn more about yourself, how to build healthy and fulfilling relationships, while trying new ways of connecting with others? This group provides the opportunity to gain a better understanding of yourself, share personal experiences, and receive support and feedback.
More questions about groups?
What costs are associated with group therapy?
All of our groups are free to currently enrolled students at the University of Cincinnati.
What time commitments are associated with group therapy?
All of our groups require weekly 90 minute meetings. Groups typically meet for the duration of a semester for an average of ten meetings per semester.
How many members are in a typical group?
Group membership can vary by topic and semester. Groups typically include 5-8 student group members with one to two CAPS clinicians acting as group facilitators. If you are interested in the exact number of group members of a specific group, feel free to ask the group facilitator for the group you intend to join.
I’m nervous about sharing my concerns in a group setting. Is this okay?
Absolutely! It is normal to feel nervous about starting a new group. Most new group members experience fears of rejection and embarrassment when starting group. Fortunately these feelings typically subside within a few sessions. You will never be forced to share anything you do not want to share.
What would happen if a group member is also my friend/roommate/acquaintance?
We understand that it can be awkward to have a friend, roommate, or acquaintance in your group. If this would occur, you could inform your group facilitator(s) of the situation. The group facilitator(s), in conjunction with group members, would attempt to find a solution that maximizes the benefit and minimizes the risks for group members. In some cases, both group members may remain in the same group. In other cases, one group member may be asked to join another group.