Group Counseling
2.1: Discussion Board Options Menu: Forum
In your own words, please describe the evolution of a group by summarizing its stages. Do you
think every group you lead will follow these stages? Why or why not?
In group therapy, there are 4 stages that must be followed to ensure quality and progress of the
program. The stages of group therapy include: the forming stage, beginning stage, working stage, and the
closing stage. The forming stage is first, with the purpose to establish expectations and what the group is
going to be like (Nick, n.d.). It includes a list of 8 steps that must be followed to ensure an effective,
professional, and prosperous group is formed (Gladding, 2015). The steps include the following: 1)
develop a rationale for the group, 2) deciding on a theoretical format, 3) weighing practical considerations,
4) publicizing the group, 5) screening and pre training, 6) selecting group members, and 7) selecting a
group leader (Gladding, 2015). Second is the beginning stage, which can be the most difficult stage for
members to go through (Nick, n.d.). The tasks to be accomplished in this stage by the group leaders and
members include: a) dealing with apprehension, b) reviewing members’ goal and contracts, c) specifying
more clearly or reiterating group rules, d) setting limits, and e) promoting a positive interchange among
members so they will continue (Gladding, 2015).Third is the working stage, which is when the group
