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Support and Therapy Groups
The Counseling Center offers multiple groups that explore a variety of topics and identities, led by mental health providers at our center. Groups offer benefits that differ from individual therapy, such as feeling less alone, diverse perspectives, feedback, encouragement, and peer connection in a safe and confidential space. Research has shown that group therapy is one of the most effective ways to address common concerns faced by our students.
Our groups are available to all MSU Denver students who are enrolled in at least 1 course credit the semester they wish to participate. If you are a student who is interested in a group, please call our office at 303-615-9988 to schedule an initial screening appointment to determine group fit.
Support and Therapy Groups
This therapy group is designed for individuals who desire growth, insight, and awareness of both self and others by relating effectively with other group members in a safe, supportive environment.
When: Mondays, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m
Facilitator: Michael Malmon, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
This therapy group will focus on accepting difficult emotions – Hey! They are a part of life! Moving away from trying to deny, suppress, distract or otherwise avoid challenging thoughts and feelings, you will work towards accepting your inner experiences without judgment, and with more psychological flexibility.
When: Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Facilitator: Lisa Boyum, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
We all feel stress at one time or another. This group will focus on support, skills, and strategies to keep stress in check.
When: Tuesdays, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Ray Gornell, Psy.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
This is a therapy process group designed to build community among its members to address many diverse emotional struggles and enhance interpersonal relationships. We do this through the use of art and through sharing in a supportive environment.
Counseling staff facilitate this community-building group encouraging artistic expression, self-reflection, and individual sharing. Participants require no previous artistic experience and are encouraged to simply enjoy the process of creating!
When: Tuesdays, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Randal Boldt, Psy.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
As an adult survivor of sexual abuse or assault, you have been living with these memories for a long time. Some survivors keep the abuse a secret for many years. You may have tried to tell an adult and were met with resistance or felt there was no one you could trust. For these reasons and many others, the effects of sexual abuse can occur many years after the abuse has ended. Remember that there is no set timeline for dealing with and recovering from this experience. This group can provide the safe space for you to receive the support you have long needed but never quite found.
When: Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Vicky Tuakoi, Psy.D., Staff Psychotherapist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
Everything we hear, see, and perceive at home, at work, at school and in the media can seep in and affect our ability to make our way in the world. Unaddressed, stereotypes about the Trans community can have a negative impact on our mental health. This group will provide a safe place to talk about who you are, the process of transitioning, and how you can make your way in the world.
When: Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Facilitator: Jeanne Burkhart, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
This semi-structured group will provide a safe place to explore experiences of anxiety in social situations, teach practical methods of dealing with these concerns, and increase feelings of self-efficacy and confidence.
When: Thursdays, 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Patricia Gonzalez, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
The Men’s Process Group is a supportive space for students who identify as men to discuss a range of issues related to their social and emotional wellbeing, challenge traditional norms that constrain choices and self-expression, and learn to connect with others more authentically.
When: Thursdays, 2:00 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.
Facilitator: Andrew Sia, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
Dialectical behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a form of talk therapy. It can help you learn to accept yourself without judgment. At the same time, you’ll work on changing negative, unhealthy behaviors that are holding you back in your life. If you struggle to manage your emotions or control unhealthy or harmful behaviors, DBT could be a good choice for you. You’ll learn new problem-solving and coping skills.
When: Thursdays, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Vicky Tuakoi, Psy.D., Staff Psychotherapist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
This therapy group is designed for individuals who desire growth, insight, and awareness of both self and others by relating effectively with other group members in a safe, supportive environment.
When: Fridays, 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Facilitator: Michael Malmon, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open