Session #1

SMART Goals

Goal #1:

By the end of services, the client will be able to identify 2 of their triggers in regard to their depression and anxiety.

Objectives:

  • Learn what triggers are
  • Discuss possible triggers

Goal #2:

By the end of services, the client will be able to identify at least 3 coping strategies to address depression and anxiety.

Objectives:

  • Learn what coping strategies are
  • Discuss when and how to use coping strategies

Agenda

50 minutes with a 10-minute break

  • Introduction of facilitators and group ~ 5 minutes
  • Introduction of participants ~ 5 minutes
  • Icebreaker ~ 10 minutes
  • Discuss group norms ~ 5 minutes
  • Discuss the forms and any other additional paperwork ~10 minutes
  • Complete assessment ~ 10 minutes
  • Closing, questions, comments ~5 minutes

Lesson Plan

Introduction of Facilitators and Group

  • Facilitators will introduce themselves and their role within the group
  • Go over the SMART goals
  • Explain the facilitators are there to teach participants about depression, anxiety, coping strategies, and possible triggers

Introduction of Participants

  • Name
  • Pronouns
  • The end goal for each participant
  • Their needs and wants
  • Anything else they feel comfortable sharing about themselves

Icebreaker

  • “Things in Common”
    • Directions:
      1. Meet with a group member for 5 minutes and find 5 commonalities
      2. Next, meet with a group member for 4 minutes, and find 4 commonalities
      3. Then, meet with a group member for 3 minutes, and find 3 commonalities
      4. Then, meet with a group member for 2 minutes, and find 2 commonalities
      5. Last, meet with a group member for 1 minute, and find 1 commonality
  • Rules:
    • Each round requires a group member that they have not been with yet
    • Interests cannot be something that can be found by looking at each other, they have to engage with each other

Discussion of Norms

  • Do not interrupt others
  • Be supportive and not disrespectful
  • Only share if you are comfortable, it is not forced
  • Participants can not miss more than one meeting without having to withdraw from the group
  • Confidentiality is crucial, if a member shares information with an outsider, they will not be allowed back
  • Do not be on phones or any other technology
  • If a participant is more than 10 minutes late, they will have to wait for the next session and will be caught up in between the session
  • However, if the participant has extenuating circumstances, if they let a facilitator know, they will be excused and welcomed back when/if able to return

Discuss the Forms and Additional Paperwork

  • SMART goals will be provided at the beginning so participants have access throughout the course of their sessions
  • The agenda for each session will be given during session one to prepare the participants
  • Written contract discussing attendance, norms, and rules
  • Informed consent form
  • Confidentiality form

Complete Assessment

  • This is on the last tab on the site listed under “Assessment and Evaluation”
  • The group will answer 4 questions regarding mental health, triggers, and coping strategies.
  • After this is complete, see if any participants would like to share.

Closing, Questions, and Comments

  • Explain to participants they have a 10-minute break and are expected to be back in the room at the beginning of the hour.
  • Ask participants if they have any questions or comments regarding the group or facilitators

Materials: SMART goals and agenda handout, written contract, informed consent and confidentiality form, pens, pencils, and paper