Group Therapy

A campus building with Spanish-style architecture is framed by colorful autumn trees under a cloudy sky.

Build Connections and Gain Support

Group therapy is a powerful way to build connections, gain new perspectives and develop skills in a supportive environment.

CAPS offers a variety of groups, including therapy groups, support groups and skill-based workshops, designed to meet different needs and experiences.

Why Join a Group?

  • Connect with others who share similar experiences
  • Express thoughts and feelings in a supportive environment
  • Try new ways of communicating and relating to others
  • Build confidence and self-awareness
  • Learn practical coping skills

How to Get Started

CAPS Offers Group Screening Appointments Where You Can

  • Meet group leaders.
  • Talk through your goals.
  • Learn what to expect.

To Join a Group

  • Email the group leader(s).
  • Complete an intake appointment, if required.

Types of Groups

Whether you are looking to connect with others through a casual drop in or participate in a more structured therapy group, CAPS offers a variety of options to support your well being. Explore the groups below to find one that fits your interests, experiences and schedule.

Therapy and Support Groups

These groups typically include 5-8 students and are led by trained CAPS clinicians. Sessions are usually 1½ hours and meet weekly.

As trust builds, many students find group becomes one of the most meaningful parts of their experience.

Students often gain self-awareness, improve relationships, build self-esteem, learn to trust others and foster personal growth.

Explore your self-worth, identity and personal growth while building confidence and understanding the messages that shape your well-being.

Topics May Include: Self-esteem, body image, identity, confidence and personal growth.

Group Meets

  • Wednesdays: 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Contact

Ivonne De Pascual (depascuali@montclair.edu)
Lisa Westreich (westreichl@montclair.edu)

A supportive group for students navigating suicidal thoughts or past suicide attempts. Learn coping skills in a safe and structured environment.

Topics May Include: Coping skills, emotional resilience, recovery, stress management and peer support.

Group Meets

  • Tuesdays: 2:15–3:30 p.m.

Details

  • 8 Weekly Sessions
  • Limited to Seven Participants
  • Pre-group Meeting Required

Contact

Lisa Westreich (westreichl@montclair.edu)
Jude Uy (uyj@montclair.edu)

A space for international students and students from immigrant families navigating multiple cultures and identities.

Topics May Include: Cultural identity, belonging, adjustment, family dynamics and community support.

Group Meets

  • Thursdays: 3–4:15 p.m.
    • CAPS, Montclair Campus

Details

  • Weekly commitment
  • Rolling admission
  • Pre-group meeting required

Contact

Sudha Wadhwani (wadhwanis@montclair.edu)

Support for students managing medical or health-related challenges.

Topics May Include: Chronic illness, navigating healthcare, stress management, self-care and peer support.

Group Meets

  • Mondays: 1–2 p.m.

Details

  • Open to all Health Concerns
  • Pre-group Meeting Required

Contact

Nancy Friedman (friedmann@montclair.edu)

A four-session program teaching mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress and anxiety.

Topics May Include: Mindfulness, meditation, stress reduction, relaxation techniques and emotional well-being.

Details

  • Online
  • Must Attend All Sessions

Contact

Lisa Westreich (westreichl@montclair.edu)

Learn skills to manage emotions, improve relationships and navigate challenges like anxiety, anger and sadness.

Topics May Include: Emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, mindfulness and healthy coping skills.

Group Meets

  • Thursdays: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Details

  • Weekly Attendance Required
  • Limited to Eight Participants
  • Pre-group Meeting Required

Contact

Nancy Friedman (friedmann@montclair.edu)
Jude Uy (uyj@montclair.edu)

A group for students navigating grief and loss, offering connection, understanding and healing.

Topics May Include: Grief, loss, coping strategies, healing and peer support.

Group Meets

  • Thursdays: 3–4:30 p.m.

Contact

Melissa Zarin (zarinm@montclair.edu)
Ivonne De Pascual (depascuali@montclair.edu)

Explore relationships, communication and self-awareness in a supportive group setting.

Topics May Include: Interpersonal relationships, communication skills, self-awareness, boundaries and personal growth.

Groups Available

  • Monday (Graduate Students): 3–4:15 p.m.
  • Wednesday (Women Only): 2–3:15 p.m.
  • Thursday: 1–2:15 p.m.

Contact

Charisma Jackson (jacksoncha@montclair.edu)

Drop-In Groups

Drop-in groups are flexible and open to all students.

  • No Appointment Required
  • Attend as Often as You’d Like
  • Focus on Specific Topics or Shared Experiences
  • May Include Discussion, Support or Skill-Building

Some groups may require a brief pre-screening to ensure the best fit.

A space for first-generation college students to build community, share experiences and navigate challenges together.

Topics May Include: Imposter Syndrome, financial stress, family expectations and academic challenges.

Group Meets

  • Tuesdays: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
    • Health Promotion Drop-In Center, Montclair Campus

Contact

Charisma Jackson (jacksoncha@montclair.edu)

An open forum for supportive conversations about issues important to those who identify as men.

Topics May Include: Identity, relationships, mental health, personal growth and life challenges.

Group Meets

  • Thursdays: 2–3 p.m.
    • Health Promotion Drop-In Center, Montclair Campus

Contact

Khabir Williams (williamskh@montclair.edu)
John Han (hanj@montclair.edu)

An open forum for supportive conversations about issues important to those who identify as men.