During the academic year, our Center offers support and therapy groups to Michigan Tech students. Groups can be attended with or without participation in individual therapy. Group therapy can be an effective form of treatment for various reasons, including receiving support from others with a similar concern, learning more about the topic through group education, helping to feel not alone, and providing support to others in the group.
All individuals are encouraged to seek out groups that might help to meet their individual needs and build community.
Groups are offered based on demand. You may express your interest in a group through our interest form.
All Groups meet in Administration Building Room 313 unless otherwise specified.
Active Groups
Summer 2026 Groups
Group Descriptions
A supportive, structured group focused on teaching students to recognize cues around stress and anxiety, while learning strategies to manage stress and anxiety well. Group topics may include: addressing current stressors, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, breathing techniques, and general coping strategies.
This group focuses on supporting students who are struggling with executive dysfunction (procrastination, time management, motivation, organization, task initiation, and emotional regulation). This is a skills-based group, which means the focus is on learning and building skills to improve symptoms that are impacting school, work, relationships, etc. No diagnosis is required; just individuals who are impacted by these challenges.
Thursdays, 10–11 a.m.
Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters
Administration Building 313
What is Third Space?
Research shows that graduate students who have emotional support and a social environment separate from their home (first space) and their work, lab, or classroom (second space) experience reduced academic anxiety, lower stress levels, and a stronger sense of belonging. For many, the most challenging part of an advanced degree isn't the research itself; it is the secondary struggle of balancing rigorous academics with personal relationships and overall wellness.
"Third Space" is designed to break down departmental silos, offering grad students a unique opportunity to connect with peers from across the university. From first-year Master’s students to PhD Finishing Fellows, students can connect over shared experiences. Graduate Students who attended the group last semester reported that meeting other students in different stages of their programs provided a broader perspective and a reminder that they are part of a larger, supportive community.
What to Expect
The group meets in the CSMHW Relaxation Room (Admin 313), which is designed to be a comfortable space with a welcoming atmosphere. Students can expect:
- Comfort: Soft lighting and plush seating.
- Refreshments: Snacks (and coffee in the waiting area)
- Conversation: Unlike a workshop or seminar, this is a discussion-based setting where the collective group needs drive the conversation.
The group is peer-focused and facilitated by a clinical counselor or a member of the graduate student outreach team. The vibe is more personal than a workshop and more relaxed than group therapy.
"The goal of this group is to normalize specific challenges that many graduate students face and to experience peer-to-peer support," says Jen Wall, clinical counselor. "There is a common misconception that seeking support is a sign of struggle. But in reality, building a support network is a strategy for success. Whether students are navigating challenging advisor dynamics, dealing with imposter syndrome, or a mid-semester slump, talking about it can be as normal as compiling research data.”
Stop by Anytime to Join the Community
Third Space is open to all graduate students. No registration or long-term commitment is required. Students are welcome to drop in as their schedules allow, but regular attendance is encouraged for maximum benefit.
Wednesdays, 12:10 – 12:35 p.m.
Location: DHH West Lounge
Make the most of your lunch break: 25 minutes of practical, evidence-based stress regulation techniques. Beginner-friendly—come once or every week.
Come As You Are is a supportive, non-judgmental group for students who want to explore their relationship with certain behaviors, such as alcohol, drugs, gambling, gaming, internet use, or other habits, and how they impact overall wellbeing. Using a harm-reduction and strengths-based approach, this group supports students in increasing awareness, clarifying personal goals, and making changes that feel right for them. The focus is on reducing negative impacts on mental health, physical health, relationships, and academic success.
This group is for students who have experienced a death loss and want to have a safe and supportive space to process their grief. For more information, contact Kerri Gilbertson at kbmayra@mtu.edu.
This is a supportive, structured group focused on teaching practical skills to manage emotions, handle stress, improve relationships, and make thoughtful decisions. The group covers core DBT areas like mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, providing students with tools to navigate challenges in a safe and collaborative environment.
In the past, we have offered groups for Depression Management, Substance Use Reduction, and Managing Burnout. These and other support groups may be offered based on demand.