The Power of Groups

"A valuable addition to the growing conversation about solution-focused practice in schools. Cooley provides the nuts and bolts of solution-focused group work with students of all ages." —John J. Murphy, Professor of Psychology University of Central Arkansas "The book is a pleasure to read, extremely informative, and helpful. The organization and content teaches a skill in a way that makes the reader feel empowered." —Cynthia Knowles, Substance Abuse Prevention Specialist and Consultant A fresh, dynamic approach to build on students′ strengths and encourage positive mental health. Solution-focused brief counseling helps students improve their well-being by concentrating on goals and solutions rather than dwelling on problems. This resource shows how to use this highly effective approach for group counseling sessions so that students can dialogue and learn alongside their peers. Research-based and practical, this unique guide gives school professionals the foundational theory and knowledge to adapt solution-focused group counseling techniques for any topic, curriculum, or grade level. Readers will find: Case studies of real students encountering real problems Forms, permissions slips, and sample letters for starting a group "Do This" and "Avoid This" sections Sample agendas for elementary, middle, and high school levels, complete with activities, session scripts, and discussion questions Help students address common issues by creating lively, engaging group meetings using this powerful, goal-oriented methodology.