Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

Which aspect is often addressed by the group leader during the final stage of group counseling?

1. Defining group rules and structure

2. Facilitating new member orientation

3. Dealing with feelings about ending the group

4. Establishing future group goals

The correct answer is: Dealing with feelings about ending the group

During the final stage of group counseling, the group leader typically focuses on addressing feelings about ending the group. This is a crucial aspect of the process as participants often experience a range of emotions, including sadness, nostalgia, and apprehension about transitioning out of the supportive environment that the group has provided. By facilitating discussions around these feelings, the leader helps members process their experiences, reflect on their personal growth during the group, and articulate any unresolved feelings. This allows for closure and reinforces the connections that were built within the group. This stage is also important because it provides members an opportunity to express gratitude to each other, summarize their learning, and discuss how they can maintain the gains made during the group in their outside lives. Addressing emotions regarding the conclusion of the group process is critical to ensuring that members feel validated and supported as they transition to the next phase in their counseling journey.