How did the facilitators help to create safety and trust in the group?
What specific actions from the facilitators stood out to you?
References
Corey, G. Corey, M.S. & Haynes, R. (2014). Groups in action: Evolution and challenges. 2nd Edition. Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning. Hatch, T., & Hartline, J. (2022). The use of data in school counseling: Hatching results (and so much more) for students, programs and the profession (2nd Ed.). Corwin. Corey , G., Corey , M. S., & Haynes , R. (n.d.). Groups in Action: Evolution and Challenges 2E. USA.
The specific actions from the facilitators in the video that stood out to me were:
Creating a Safe and Welcoming Atmosphere: The facilitators initiated the session by encouraging participants to be aware of themselves and others, and to acknowledge the feelings in the room. This set the tone for a safe and open environment where participants could express themselves without judgment.
Pair Sharing: Instead of having participants share their initial feelings with the entire group, the facilitators had them share with a partner first. This approach helped reduce anxiety and allowed participants to build trust one step at a time.
Active Listening and Engaging Body Language: The facilitators actively listened to participants’ comments, maintained eye contact, and displayed engaged body language throughout the session. This demonstrated their attentiveness and showed that they genuinely cared about what each participant had to say.
Asking Effective Questions: The facilitators asked insightful and thought-provoking questions, such as exploring the impact of certain comments on group dynamics. These questions allowed participants to reflect on their feelings and experiences and helped facilitate meaningful discussions.
Encouraging Expression of Feelings: The facilitators encouraged participants to express any uncomfortable feelings they might have had about the group setting. They acknowledged that such feelings are common and crucial to address to foster a safe and trusting environment.
Mediating Conflict: When a sensitive topic arose during the session, the facilitator skillfully mediated the conflict between two participants. They allowed the participants to express their emotions and helped them work through their concerns, ultimately promoting understanding and empathy within the group.
Fostering Inclusivity: The facilitators were sensitive to cultural differences and made sure that all participants felt included and respected. They addressed a situation where a comment unintentionally caused a sense of alienation and worked to resolve it constructively.
Overall, the facilitators demonstrated strong leadership skills, active listening, and empathy. Their actions helped create a positive group dynamic where safety and trust could thrive, allowing for meaningful interactions and personal growth within the group counseling setting.
