The University of Texas at Austin - What Starts Here Changes The World
The University of Texas at Austin Division of Student Affairs
search
UT counseling and mental health home link, go here to get back to the homepage

Groups and Classes

Business Hours:
Monday through Friday, 8:00am - 5:00pm CST
Appointment-scheduling hours are Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm CST
Phone: (512) 471-3515 - Student Services Building 5th Floor
graphic element used to separate content

All groups are free and confidential.

Group Information


College students often face overwhelming emotions, difficult relationships and adjustments, and academic problems for which a group may be the best support option – often being more beneficial than one-on-one counseling. Groups offer a unique setting in which peer interactions facilitate self-improvement and the alleviation of suffering. Participants often feel less alone in their struggles, with the group providing a sense of community.

CMHC offers therapy groups, therapeutic classes, and skill-building workshops that address a range of student needs. Some students are initially hesitant to participate in a group, but those who join consistently find them to be a beneficial and positive experience.

New groups start each semester. Most therapy and support groups have five to ten members. Classes and workshops, which are more educational and skill building in nature, may be larger. The number of sessions per group varies, concluding before finals. Usually, students meet in advance with the facilitator(s) to discuss their interest. Students can attend others on a drop-in basis.

If you are interested in a group that is full, can call (512) 471-3515 or come by CMHC Monday through Friday between 8am and 5pm to discuss your needs.

If you don’t see a group that's relevant or helpful to you, Submit a suggestion or request to the CMHC Group Coordinator for other groups you’d like to see CMHC offer.

For questions about CMHC groups, contact Dr. Kate Czar at  (512) 471-3515.

Benefits of Group Counseling
Group Q&A
Testimonials


Groups and Classes

Please note: CMHC groups and workshops are not eligible for currently enrolled UT Austin students to observe for class assignments.

Drop-in Mindfulness Groups

Tuesdays, 11:45 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. CST

1/24 - 4/25 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Geeti Mahajan

Virtual


Join us for this virtual mindful meditation group, which begins with gentle, mindful movement, followed by guided meditation, and ends with discussion to process the experience and offer support.

The group is open to students, faculty and staff with any level of meditation experience. Participants can join the session at any time as late arrivals or early departures are accommodated.

Please note, this is not a traditional therapy group, and you do not need to be a CMHC client to enroll. Participants can join at any time during the semester. The facilitator will email you instructions for the Zoom prior to the upcoming session. Be sure to sign up in advance.

Registration - Click below to enter your email address and receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link.

For questions or more information - Contact Geeti Mahajan.


Drop-In Discussion Groups

See other categories on this page for additional drop-in group options.

Please note: Groups taking place in person at the Counseling and Mental Health Center will observe the center’s current COVID-19 protocols.

  DROP-IN
Asian Voices @ UT

Tuesdays, 5 to 6:15 p.m. CST

1/24 - 4/18 (not meeting 3/7 or during Spring Break)

Amy Tao-Foster

Belmont Hall Room 220A


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This weekly discussion group is open to all students who identify within the broad spectrum of Asian/Asian American backgrounds (e.g., East Asian, South Asian, Pacific Islander, Middle Eastern, etc.).

The purpose of the group is to provide a safe and supportive atmosphere where students can connect and talk openly about their experiences of being an Asian/Asian American student at UT and what's going on in their lives. Common topics that arise in the group include, but are not limited to, identity, academics, experience of racism, navigating between Asian and American values and expectations, and any other topics that feel relevant to participants.

Registration – Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some, or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Amy Tao-Foster.

Fridays, 11 a.m. to noon CST

2/3 - 4/28 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Gareth White

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This drop-in group is open to anyone who identifies as a big person. We will spend time thinking, feeling and talking about what it is like to move through the UT campus and world in our bodies. The focus of this group will be body positivity, self-love and compassion. There is always time to be kind to your body.

Registration – Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some, or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Gareth White.

Wednesdays, 3:30 to 5 p.m.

3/22 - 4/19 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Dai’Shai Logan

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group provides an affirming, empowering and supportive environment for Black women and Black non-binary students to practice coping through creative or expressive art activities (e.g., painting, sculpting, drawing, writing, collage). This semi-structured group will also include authentic group discussions on issues such as racial stress and issues that historically and currently marginalize and oppress the Black community, isolation/loneliness, sexuality, relationships, the intersection of race and gender, body image and hair, trauma, self-compassion and more. The group is an environment in which to be seen authentically and learn ways to cope, engage in wellness and build community. Students will be encouraged to share their work, offer support to one another and identify and discuss maladaptive coping strategies (e.g., substance misuse, self-harm). No artistic experience is required. Some materials will be provided.

Registration – Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some, or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Dai’Shai Logan.

Wednesdays, 12:30 to 1:50 p.m. CST

2/1 - 4/19 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Tina Alexander

GWB 1.138


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This weekly discussion group is open to Black-identified students, regardless of nationality or racial/ethnic background. The group engages in safe, engaging and authentic discussion around students' experiences as Black and African American students on the UT campus.

From race relations to career development and from cultural appropriation to sexuality and dating in the Black community, students are welcome to discuss any topic that is relevant to their experiences. Topics may include, but are not limited to, the current sociopolitical climate, the psychosocial impact of racial injustice, systemic issues that historically and currently marginalize and oppress the Black community, religious and spiritual development and identity development in the Black community.

Registration – Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some, or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Tina Alexander.

View details on our Wellness Workshops and Events page.

Fridays, 2 to 3 p.m. CST

1/13 - 4/21 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Arna Erega

Virtual


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This discussion group is for international students who are preparing for the transition from their roles as full-time students to professional environments such as internships, externships, or part- or full-time employment. The purpose of the group is to create a safe environment where international students can discuss their successes and challenges with these transitions and job searches. Participants will have the opportunity to talk about their experiences, process stress, frustration, anxiety, receive peer support and learn skills to better cope along the way.

This group is drop-in based, and students can attend one, some or all sessions.

Registration – Click below to enter your email address and receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link.

For questions or more information - Contact Arna Erega.

Mondays, 1 to 2 p.m. CST

1/23 - 4/17 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Kimberly Bird

Virtual


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This weekly drop-in discussion space is gender-inclusive and open to all students. The group allows members to reflect on family concerns, understand one's family structure from a culturally informed perspective and learn skills to navigate healthy interactions with family members. Students may attend one, some or all sessions.

Registration – Click below to enter your email address and receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link.

For questions or more information - Contact Kimberly Bird.

Tuesdays, 4 to 5 p.m. CST

1/24 - 4/18 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Heather Gutentag and Rachel Goold

Hybrid: Zoom and in-person location (McCombs Wellness Center)


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This drop-in discussion group for resident assistants (RAs) (both on- and off-campus) provides a flexible support space for students to develop coping skills to manage their roles as both students and employees. The group will focus on processing the challenges of being a resident assistant, developing a self-care plan, managing work/life balance, and stress management skills. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some or all group sessions.

Registration - If participating virtually, click below to enter your email address and receive the Zoom link. No registration required to attend in person.

For questions or more information - Contact Heather Gutentag.

Wednesdays, 2 to 3 p.m. CST

1/25 - 4/19 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Mike Andorka

SSB 3.200 Conference Room


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This weekly discussion group is open to all students who identify as first generation college students. The definition of “first generation” at UT includes students from families where neither parent or guardian has a four-year degree or higher from a university or college. Students whose parents received a college degree outside the US also identify as first generation.

This drop-in experience is designed to help first generation Longhorns connect, learn about shared experiences and get support from CMHC and each other. Students may also learn about campus resources that can enable them to become more successful and discuss other topics that feel relevant.

Registration – Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some, or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Mike Andorka.

Tuesdays, 4 to 5 p.m. CST

1/31 - 4/11 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Hannah Powers

Virtual


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This weekly discussion group is open to all students who identify as Neurodivergent (ND) including Autistic and/or diagnosed with ADHD/ADD, Sensory Perception Disorder (SPD), Tourette's, or a Learning Disability.

The purpose of the group is to create an open, welcoming, respectful, and confidential space where students can connect and talk openly about their experiences of being ND students at UT. Common topics that may be discussed in the group include self-advocacy to professors or medical providers, dating, social relationships, how to comfortably navigate campus, and more.

This group is drop-in based, and students can attend one, some or all sessions.

Registration – Click below to enter your email address and receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link.

For questions or more information - Contact Hannah Powers.

Wednesdays, 1 to 2 p.m. CST

1/25 - 4/19 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Danielle Sirles and Denzel Wilson

Virtual


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This drop-in discussion group offers a supportive space to explore the highs and lows of navigating complicated romantic relationships and break-ups. Topics for discussion include managing complex feelings (e.g., grief, anger, relief, regret, happiness, loneliness and uncertainty), setting healthy boundaries, improving communication, increasing self-awareness and much more. All genders and partnerships welcome.

Registration – Click below to enter your email address and receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link.

For questions or more information - Contact Danielle Sirles.

Mondays, 10 to 11:30 a.m. CST

1/23 - 5/1 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Joanna Menendez

GWB 1.138


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This weekly discussion group is open to all Latin- identified students, regardless of identities, nationality, or racial/ethnic background and/or immigration status. A willingness to engage in respectful conversation and honor group members' privacy is the only other requirement to attend.

The group provides a safe and supportive atmosphere in which participants can engage in inviting and authentic discussion around students' experiences as Latinx students on the UT campus. Any and all topics that are relevant to students' experiences can be discussed such as sociopolitical issues, immigration status or conditions, intersecting identities, academics, and more. Students' privacy will be respected.

Registration - Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Joanna Menendez.

2 sections:
Wednesdays, 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Wednesdays, 5:07 to 6:37 p.m.

1/11 - 4/19

Amelia Zique

GSC Conference Room (WCP 2.112)


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

Each session will begin with support and discussion around a queer-specific topic. Around the middle of each session (varies depending on the needs of the group members present), we will transition to an open forum where participants can seek out and offer support, solidarity, and community with one another. If you would like email reminders for these drop-in spaces, along with the facilitator's drop-in office hours each Wednesday, please contact the facilitator (see below).

Registration - Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Amelia Zique.

Fridays, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CST

2/24 - 4/21 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Hannah Yeo Garza

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is open to all students who identify as multi-racial and/or multi-ethnic. The group aims to develop a sense of belonging and community among group members who might experience feelings of isolation and/or perceived rejection when attempting to claim one of their identities. Group will offer a mixture of peer support, interpersonal exploration and resources. Issues discussed may include imposter syndrome, racial stress, stigma, intersectionality, relationships, family dynamics and challenges and strengths associated with navigating two or more racial/ethnic groups and/or cultures.

Registration - Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Hannah Yeo Garza.

Tuesdays, 3 to 4:30 p.m. CST

2/21 - 4/18 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Arna Erega

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This is a group for international students of all genders, ages, majors and academic classifications. The group offers a safe and empowering environment in which international students can explore personal concerns and challenges they have experienced in the U.S. so far. Participants are encouraged to share their experiences and to give and receive supportive feedback. Common concerns discussed may include personal and interpersonal challenges, social isolation, difficulties making meaningful friendships, adjustment and acculturation, homesickness, family pressures and expectations, mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression, culturally specific pressures and any other topics that feel relevant.

Registration - Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Arna Erega.

Tuesdays, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

2/21 - 4/18 (not meeting 3/7 or during Spring Break)

Mary Eberlein and Bryce Moffett

FAC 18T Conference Room (first floor)


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This discussion group is for female-identifying undergraduate students in male-dominated science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields who are navigating the demands of school while coping with gender-related stress. The group is designed to provide a safe, supportive, affirming and confidential environment in which to discuss experiences and receive support. Topics may include microaggressions, isolation/exclusion, loneliness, imposter syndrome, self-care and other topics of interest to participants.

Registration - Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Bryce Moffett.


Identity-Based Support Groups

Please note: Groups taking place in person at the Counseling and Mental Health Center will observe the center’s current COVID-19 protocols.

Fridays, 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. CST (meets every other week)

Elana Verbin / Disability Cultural Center staff member Emily Shryock

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is for students living with chronic illnesses or medical conditions that have a significant impact on their lives. The conditions may not be visible, and individuals can be in any stage of the illness or condition (recently diagnosed, struggling with figuring out a diagnosis, in remission). This is an opportunity for connection and community with other students who are managing a chronic medical condition as part of their college experience. Group members will give and receive support as well as learn about coping strategies and resources in a friendly, welcoming environment. The group meets every other week.

This group is being offered in partnership with the UT Disability Cultural Center.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call (512) 471-3515.

Fridays, 1:15 to 2:30 CST

Amy Tao-Foster and Katherine Sadek

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is for female and non-binary students of color who are who are holding the stressors, expectations, pressures, and triumphs of being in a multi-generational immigrant family while navigating UT. An underlying goal of the group is to provide an affirming and supportive atmosphere for members to discuss their experiences around burnout, imposter syndrome, perfectionism, body image, stigma, isolation, intergenerational and historical trauma, acculturation, interpersonal relationships, and family dynamics. The group will allow members to explore how these factors intersect with identity and how they can impact mental health.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Fridays, 10:30 to noon CST

Mike Andorka

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group provides a supportive space for all male-identified individuals. Due to the lack of emotional training in development, men tend to have difficulties identifying, expressing and coping with negative emotions, including sadness, guilt and shame. The goal of this group is for members to learn how to better cope with difficult emotions. In addition, the members will learn how to support others by relating and supporting versus problem-solving.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Wednesdays, noon to 1:30 p.m. CST

Joey Hannah and Terrill Taylor

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is for queer and questioning men/masculine people including any identity on the queer spectrum (i.e., gay, bisexual, trans, questioning etc.).

In this process and support group, members will explore themes important to themselves. The gathering will create a safe and encouraging atmosphere for discussions around the development of queer identity, queer community, dating and intimacy, and processing intersecting identities.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Mondays, 2 to 3 p.m. CST

Gareth White

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is a supportive place for queer and questioning women. This can include any identity on the queer spectrum (i.e. lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, questioning etc.) This is a process and support group where members can explore themes important to them. The group creates a safe and supportive atmosphere for discussions around the development of queer identity, queer community, dating and intimacy, and processing intersecting identities. It can also help support members around family issues and coming out or the decision not to.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.


Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Groups

Please note: Groups taking place in person at the Counseling and Mental Health Center will observe the center’s current COVID-19 protocols.

Tuesdays, 11 a.m. to noon CST

1/17 - 4/25 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Brittany Sievers and Emma Siegel

Virtual


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This weekly drop-in group is open to all students seeking a supportive environment to explore their relationship with substances. Students looking to make changes to their substance use, or no changes at all, are welcome. Concerns might include substance misuse, learning about safe substance use practices, moderation, increasing awareness and insight about current use, relapse and maintaining long-term recovery.

The group is grounded in harm reduction and provides a non-judgmental and confidential environment to explore how substance use may be impacting relationships, coping, academics and more. We acknowledge that different goals work for different people.

Please note this group is drop-in based, and students can attend one, some or all sessions. Feel free to schedule an appointment with a group facilitator to explore whether this group may be a good fit for you.

Registration - Click below to enter your email address and receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link.

For questions or more information - Contact Brittany Sievers.

Wednesdays, 3 to 4 p.m.

3/22 - 4/19

Brittany Sievers, Kathy Melo Li, and Madison Blaydes

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This drop-in group is for students of all genders who have loved or currently love someone who struggles with substance use and are seeking healing and support from these experiences. This group will serve as a supportive space to explore the impact of substance use on your mental health, your goals, and your relationships with others.

Registration - Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Brittany Sievers.


Voices Against Violence (VAV) Groups

Please note: Groups taking place in person at the Counseling and Mental Health Center will observe the center’s current COVID-19 protocols.

Thursdays, 1 to 2:30 p.m. CST

Kimberly Bird and Tasha Castellón

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is for students of any gender who identify as a survivor of physical, verbal, emotional and/or financial abuse within their family of origin (e.g., parents, siblings, grandparents, etc.) and who are actively seeking healing around these experiences.

Recognizing that the healing process is different for each person, the group seeks to empower members through the exploration of each person's unique experience as they connect and learn with other survivors in a supportive and safe atmosphere. The focus is on increasing self-awareness, exploring the impact of family experiences and validating that interpersonal violence is not their fault and that they are not alone.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Mondays, 2 to 3:30 p.m. CST

Hannah Yeo Garza and Johanna Loya

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This gender-inclusive group is for all students who identify as survivors of interpersonal trauma, such as sexual assault/abuse, dating/relationship violence, or abuse within their family of origin, and who are seeking connection and support in recovering from trauma. The group will offer ongoing support, facilitate healing, and create a safe and understanding atmosphere to explore the impact of these experiences as students move forward in their own healing.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Wednesdays, 2 to 3:30 p.m. CST

Kristen Pearson and Rachel Goold

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group provides a supportive environment for women and non-binary students with experiences of sexual assault, sexual abuse, relationship violence and stalking to focus on current impact and experiences. The group will explore trauma reactions, coping strategies, creating safety in relationships and integrating individual experiences into our identities.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Tuesdays, 1:30 to 3 p.m. CST

Joanna Menendez and Paula Ramirez

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This is a group for undergraduate and graduate self-identified Latinx women who have experienced sexual violence/assault.

Join us as we focus on providing support to members, normalize their experiences and explore healthy coping mechanisms. The facilitator may suggest a topic for each meeting, but members will have space to share anything they desire. Bilingual dialogue is welcome if it supports your wellbeing and empowerment.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Mondays, noon to 1 p.m. CST

1/30 - 4/24 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Hannah Nazir and Talya Leibowicz

Virtual


Please note that this group is not a formal therapy group.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This is a weekly, drop-in, gender-inclusive support group that is open to all students who identify as survivors of interpersonal trauma. Interpersonal trauma may include experiences of sexual assault, emotional and physical abuse, dating/domestic violence, family of origin violence, etc. The group will provide an opportunity for members to build community and engage in safe and confidential discussions that pertain to their experiences as survivors.

Registration - Click below to enter your email address and receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link.

For questions or more information - Contact Hannah Nazir

View details on our Wellness Workshops and Events page.


Mindful Eating Groups

Please note: Groups taking place in person at the Counseling and Mental Health Center will observe the center’s current COVID-19 protocols.

Fridays, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. CST

Ayesha Akbar

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is for non-binary individuals and women of color of all ages who are interested in improving their relationship with food and their bodies. It is appropriate for those who want to reduce disordered eating behaviors and/or thoughts as well as other compensatory behaviors such as bingeing, purging, restricting, or over-exercising. Group sessions will focus on familial and personal expectations regarding appearance and body. Members will discuss navigating dominant culture/Eurocentric beauty standards and cultural and familial connections to food. Goals will include learning skills to identify distorted expectations, challenging those expectations, and decreasing disordered thoughts and behaviors

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Wednesdays, 1 to 2 p.m. CST

1/18 - 4/19 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Chloe Ropner and Joan Long

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This weekly group is open to all students seeking a supportive community to explore their relationship with their food and body, including those who have been diagnosed with an eating disorder and those who are currently in treatment. The group provides a nonjudgmental and confidential environment to explore how disordered eating thoughts and behaviors may impact various areas of their life. Students are welcome to bring their lunches to session.

Registration - Not necessary. Participants are not required to participate each week and can drop in for one, some, or all group sessions. Click below to receive weekly reminder emails about the group.

For questions or more information - Contact Chloe Ropner or Joan Long.

Fridays, 1:30 to 3 p.m. CST

Chloe Ropner and Yaritza Carmona

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is for students who are struggling with disordered eating and body image concerns. Members will engage in the exploration of underlying issues tied to food and body image concerns, learn ways to cultivate the mind/body connection and develop new ways of coping with emotions, thoughts and behaviors associated with disordered eating. The group is semi-structured with a focus on peer support and group discussions.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Mondays, 2:30 to 4 p.m.

Joan Long, LCSW and Paula Ramirez, RYT

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is for students who are struggling with disordered eating and body image concerns. The purpose of this group is for members to improve their relationship with food, as well as their relationship with their bodies. In this group, members will engage in gentle yoga and mindfulness practices that allow for the development of new coping skills and the cultivation of mind/body connection. Additionally, members will engage in peer support and group discussions around emotions, thoughts and behaviors associated with disordered eating.

No prior yoga experience is necessary. This group is open to all fitness and ability levels.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.


Group Services for Graduate and Professional Students

Please note: Groups taking place in person at the Counseling and Mental Health Center will observe the center’s current COVID-19 protocols.

Thursdays, 3 to 4 p.m. CST

1/26 - 4/20 (not meeting during Spring Break)

Danielle Sirles, PhD

Virtual


Please note that discussion groups are not therapy groups.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This drop-in group is for Black graduate students (any level of a master’s, doctoral or professional program) navigating the demands of graduate or professional school while coping with race-related stress. This group is designed to provide a safe, supportive, affirming and confidential environment to discuss experiences and receive support. Topics may include microaggressions, loneliness, burnout, racial battle fatigue, perfectionism, imposter syndrome and intentional self-care among other topics that feel relevant for participants. Active work on a thesis, dissertation or other professional writing is NOT required for participation.

Registration – Click below to enter your email address and receive a confirmation email with the Zoom link.

For questions or more information - Contact Danielle Sirles.

Tuesdays, 2:30 to 4 p.m. CST

Mark Zentner and Saul Castro

Virtual


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is for doctoral students who are experiencing difficulties in the dissertation process. Topics that are commonly discussed include work-life balance, interactions with advisors and faculty, job/career decision-making, and motivation/strategies for making concrete progress on their dissertations and other professional activities.  The group provides a place for mutual support, accountability, and goal-setting to move through internal and external barriers and move forward with their lives and careers.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Pam Moore

2 Sections

Tuesdays, 3 to 4:30 p.m. CST at CMHC – SSB 5th floor
Wednesdays, 2 to 3:30 p.m. CST – Virtual


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This support group is for graduate students. Being a graduate student can be challenging when facing rigorous academic work, pressures for success, and lack of sleep and time. Graduate students often struggle to have people, time, and space in their lives to share authentically their feelings and concerns about life or conflicts within their programs. This group is designed to provide that safe, confidential atmosphere and the opportunity to receive support and feedback from peers. Topics discussed may include personal and professional relationships, self-esteem/confidence, personal and professional identity development, intersections of cultural identity, and any other topics that feels relevant to participants.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

View details on our Wellness Workshops and Events page.

View details on our Wellness Workshops and Events page.


Other Support and Skill-Building Groups

Please note: Groups taking place in person at the Counseling and Mental Health Center will observe the center’s current COVID-19 protocols.

Fridays, 2:30 to 4 p.m. CST

3/31 - 4/21

Mike Andorka and Mary Eberlein

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


Referrals for this group will open on 2/24.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This 4- to 5-week group is for students who experience anxiety or depression. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidenced-based treatment for these concerns. This group will review ACT principles including managing thoughts and feelings, mindfulness, cognitive defusion techniques, and commitment to goal-directed behavior. ACT uses metaphors and storytelling to provide education on ACT principles. The group provides a safe atmosphere that encourages peer support.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Tuesdays, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Amy Tao-Foster and Hannah Nazir

Bellmont 220A


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is for students who have difficulty speaking up in groups and/or initiating conversations, who worry about how others are evaluating them, and who find themselves more "in their head" than in the conversation. The group will focus on providing space for students who face similar challenges to meet one another as well as:

  • identifying and changing thoughts associated with feared situations,
  • practicing facing social fears in a safe and supportive environment, and
  • building communication and social skills to help increase comfort and self-confidence in social or performance situations.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Thursdays, 3 to 4:30 p.m. CST

Kathy Melo Li

Virtual


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This structured group employs strategies from mindfulness and acceptance based therapies and is for students who are feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed or having difficulty enjoying life. Skills focus on learning to be more present, self-compassionate and able to handle intense emotions effectively. Members will participate in experiential exercises and complete homework assignments, with the goal being to develop a toolkit from which to pull whenever difficult life circumstances arise. The group is an eight-week commitment.

Students must be enrolled in individual therapy throughout the course of the group.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Thursdays, 2 to 3:30 p.m. CST

Alicia Garces

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group is a supportive space for students who have had someone important pass away, whether recently or in the past. Participants may be having trouble dealing with this loss and/or functioning on a daily basis. The group provides support around feelings of loneliness or isolation related to the loss, and it is a chance to talk and connect with others about their experiences with grief.

The group will focus on learning about the grief process, expressing and accepting emotions around grief, experiencing a supportive environment to explore the relationship with the loved one who has passed and addressing issues around coping with grief.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.

Wednesdays, 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Kate Czar

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


Referrals for this group will open on 2/24.

All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This brief (4 or 5 weeks) structured, skills-based class is designed to help participants improve their relationships with themselves by finding a healthier balance between self-kindness and self-accountability. Students often seek out this class to help overcome challenges such as depression, social anxiety, low self-esteem and perfectionism. Participants can expect to learn and practice mindfulness meditation techniques, which help cultivate the kind of self-compassion that helps us be more self-accepting but also more successful in life.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.


Understanding Self and Others Groups

Please note: Groups taking place in person at the Counseling and Mental Health Center will observe the center’s current COVID-19 protocols.

Mondays, 1:30 to 3 p.m. CST

Danielle Sirles and Tasha Castellón

CMHC – SSB 5th floor


All CMHC groups are free and confidential.

This group offers a safe and supportive environment in which members can gain powerful experiences through giving and receiving support and encouragement from others facing similar struggles. The group also allows members to practice new, more engaged and effective ways of relating to each other. Common concerns discussed in the group include, but are not limited to, personal growth and self-care, relationships, mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety, asserting boundaries, and other concerns that feel relevant to participants.

To register or for more information - Interested students are asked to meet with a group facilitator to determine whether a particular group is a good fit for them. To set up a pre-group interview or to get more information, please call CMHC at (512) 471-3515.


If you don’t see a group that's relevant or helpful to you, submit a suggestion or request to the CMHC Group Coordinator for other groups you’d like to see CMHC offer.

Looking for non-clinical, student-facilitated community spaces or other group connection opportunities? Check out the Longhorn SHARE Project and their list of SHARE Communities.



cmhc logo
facebook twitter instagram tumblr