This week brings us to the end of our six weeks together as a group, which is the stage of separation. By the time a group has reached this stage, it has achieved its purposes and has taught members new behavior patterns. (Zastrow & Hessenauer, 2019) Throughout our time together, we have learned much anxiety: its causes, symptoms, and treatment, as well some tools we can use for managing it. Most importantly, we have learned how to participate in a group of relative strangers in a new social environment. Now as the group draws to a close, it is time to reflect on what knowledge and skills we have gained in the process, how the group has developed over time and how we feel about leaving it, and the future avenues we want to explore.
Check in (20 minutes)
Meditation (5 minutes)
Diary Review (30 minutes)
Group Activity (20 minutes)
Closings and Goodbyes (20 minutes)
The facilitator will begin the last session with a brief check-in with the group. They will ask each member to reflect on and share what personal changes they have experienced as a member of the group. This group reflection gives the brain time to create a space to pause and sift through experiences and learning and creates personal meaning that can inform future actions. (Porter, 2017)
Next, the facilitator will show a short 5-minute meditation video to relax members before the diary review.
Last session, members were asked to write a diary entry about what they have gained from being part of the group. The facilitator will ask each member to share what they have written. This will allow for members to honor the ways the group has affected each individual and to help cement the foundation of social connection that has been fostered throughout our sessions together. (Siegel, 2010)
The facilitator will then lead a group activity called Thumbprint Tree. The facilitator will need a variety of colored ink pads and a tree template (linked below) for each member. The facilitator will then ask each member to pick a color ink and stamp their thumbprint on the tree template for each person. Members will be encouraged to sign their name or write a message next to their thumbprint. This is a great way for each individual member to have a physical parting gift to remind them of their time in our sessions. In that way, each member leaves a part of themselves with each group member and takes a part of each member with them. (Shapiro & Ginzberg, 2002)
Finally, the facilitator will end the session by using a quote from author Mitch Albom that says, “But all endings are also beginnings.” (2003) They will then ask members to tell what beginning the ending of the group will lead to and give members a chance for any closing remarks and to say goodbye.
Guided Meditation Video (PeacefulPause, 2011)
Tree Template for Thumbprint Tree Activity
Ink Pads for Thumbprint Tree Activity
The chief purpose of this week’s session is to gain closure for the group.
Members will identify and share feelings about the ending of the group
Members will gain an understanding of the importance of reflection on group membership
Members will leave the group with a tangible memory of the group and its impact on them