Current group offerings

The group schedules may change throughout the semester, and these changes may not always be reflected on this website. For questions about group offerings, please contact the Group Coordinator, Dr. Kseniya Zhuzha, at kzhuzha@unr.edu.

Please note:

  • Counseling Services groups are open to all current, eligible University of Nevada, Reno students.
  • All groups are part of clinical services at Counseling Services. Students’ interest and clinical needs are considered by our clinicians when determining recommendation and enrollment in a group. Please contact counseling@unr.edu if you would like to request a group that is not currently being offered. Development of new groups is subject to student enrollment, clinical judgment, clinical resources and availability, and other factors.
  • All groups are held in person at this time.

Fall 2025 groups

  • Anxiety skills

    When: Fridays 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
    Who's leading:     Emma Seynaeve, LCSW

    This six-week group is open to University students who want to learn skills for recognizing and reducing anxiety. Topics covered in this group may include self-care, boundary setting, communication skills and thoughts that fuel anxiety.  Group sessions are structured and focus on learning a skill, concept, or tool. 

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.
  • Body Image Skills

    When: Tuesdays 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
    Who's leading:     Susan Chamberlain, Ph.D. and Selma Tugrul

    This is a 5-week group open to University student of all genders and identities who want to feel better about their bodies. The group uses proven methods to help build kindness and confidence in how you see your body.

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.

    Related resources:

    • Book by Sonya Renee Taylor “The Body is Not an Apology” available at the University library.
  • Café Con Pan (Latino/a/x support group)

    When: Wednesdays 4:30-6:00 p.m. on Sep 3, Oct 1, Nov 5, and Dec 3
    Who's leading: Christina Cendejas, Ph.D. and Angelica Castro Bueno, Ph.D.
    Where: Multicultural Center (Joe Crowley Student Union, 3rd Floor)

    Café con Pan is a monthly drop-in support space best suited for the University students who want to discuss experiences as a part of the Latino/a/x community. This group discusses topics such as acculturation, adjustment to college, family, imposter phenomenon, mental health stigma, resilience, self-compassion, and events impacting the Latino/a/x community. Food provided.

    Interested? Come to the Multicultural Center (Joe Crowley Student Union, 3rd Floor) during the time of group. For questions, please email Christina at ccendejas@unr.edu.

    Related resources:

  • Cognitive Processing Therapy for Trauma

    When: Tuesdays 2:30-4:00 p.m.
    Who's leading: Anna Lujan-Sondgroth, Psy.D. and Angelica Castro Bueno, Ph.D.

    This group is for students who have experienced trauma of any kind. It helps them evaluate how trauma has shaped their thoughts and behaviors and work on ways to reclaim their life. Trauma-related issues addressed in this group will include trust, feelings of safety, relationships with power and control, self-esteem, and intimacy. No traumas will be explicitly discussed in this group to prevent triggering and create a safe space. In each session, a new skill, concept or tool is presented, and participants discuss how the material applies to them and help one another with the skills.

    Interested? Please email Anna at asondgroth@unr.edu and ask about a consultation. Only current University students are eligible.

  • Criticism to Compassion

    When: Tuesdays 3-4:30 p.m.
    Who's leading: Liya Levanda, Psy.D. and Kristen Reyes

    This is a 6-week group for University students who struggle with being hard on themselves, being too harsh/mean to themselves, or wish they spoke to themselves with more kindness. Group members will first learn to identify thought and behavior patterns that contribute to their self-criticism and will then learn ways to show themselves kindness and compassion.

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.
  • Depression Skills

    When: Mondays 2:30-4 p.m.
    Who's leading: Liya Levanda, Psy.D., Monique Normand, LCSW, and Selma Tugrul

    This 6-week group is open to University graduate and undergraduate students and focuses on skills to recognize depressive symptoms and use coping skills to reduce the intensity or duration of the symptoms. Each session includes an activity aimed at increasing positive emotions and covers topics such as what is depression, thoughts, emotions, and unhelpful coping. If you do this group, you will be asked to participate in the weekly activities, which could include: going for a walk, listening to music, doing an art project, and playing a board game.

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Group - Wednesday

    When: Wednesdays 5-7 p.m.
    Who's leading: Monique Normand, LCSW and Edwin Tang, M.C.

    These six-week groups are intended for students who want to increase their self-awareness, ability to tolerate distress, and improve emotion regulation and relationship skills. Groups are structured like a class where group leaders teach skills and provide handouts to assist with the development of coping skills. Students must be referred by a mental health professional to this group.

    Interested?

      • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
      • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.
      • If you are a mental health professional interested in referring a student to this group, please contact Christina Cendejas at ccendejas@unr.edu
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Group – Friday

    When: Fridays 2-4 p.m.
    Who's leading: Christina Cendejas, Ph.D. and Amy O’Brien, LCSW

    These six-week groups are intended for students who want to increase their self-awareness, ability to tolerate distress, and improve emotion regulation and relationship skills. Groups are structured like a class where group leaders teach skills and provide handouts to assist with the development of coping skills. Students must be referred by a mental health professional to this group.

    Interested?

      • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
      • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.
      • If you are a mental health professional interested in referring a student to this group, please contact Christina Cendejas at ccendejas@unr.edu
  • Exposure Bootcamp

    Dates: January 12 – 16, 2026
    Days/Times: Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
    Who's leading:     Kseniya Zhuzha, Ph.D., CGP, Susan Chamberlain, Ph.D., Anna Lujan-Sondgroth, Psy.D., and Angelica Castro Bueno, Ph.D.

    Exposure therapy is a gold standard treatment for many mental health concerns yet can be difficult and isolating to engage in when you are a busy university student and manage a number of academic demands and other stressors. Because of this, we offer you a full one-week treatment in a group setting before the start of the spring semester!

    During this week-long group therapy experience, students will engage in exposure exercises that will reduce their anxiety and avoidance and improve quality of life. Exposure exercises will be personalized to each student's individual needs and will increase in difficulty as the week progresses.

    Who is this for:

    Students whose life is limited by anxiety and difficulty to engage in important life activities because of it. Mental health concerns may include but are not limited to: body image, obsessive compulsive disorders, phobias, skin picking, social anxiety, trauma, trichotillomania, etc.

    Expectations:

    • Commitment to the full duration of the Bootcamp
    • Engagement in homework exercises following each session

    Cost:

    • Free to current UNR students enrolled in 6+ credits in Spring 2026
    • Free lunch will be provided

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.
    • If you are a mental health professional interested in referring a student to this group, please contact Kseniya Zhuzha at kzhuzha@unr.edu
  • Graduate Interpersonal Group

    When: Mondays 5:30-7 p.m.
    Who's leading: Amy O’Brien, LCSW and Hilary Son, Psy.D.

    This interpersonal process and support group focuses on helping participants improve relationships and receive support around being a graduate student at the University. In sessions, participants will explore how they approach relationships with other group members and practice new interpersonal strategies with each other, which then can be used outside of the group. The group is open to graduate and medical students who experience interpersonal difficulties and would benefit from support from other students pursuing advanced degrees. While the specific focus of each session will be determined by group members' needs, some of the issues addressed may include communication styles, boundaries, emotional vulnerability, self-awareness, academic stressors, and other relationship and graduate school challenges.

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.

    Related resources:

  • In Focus: ADHD Coaching Group

    When: Tuesdays 3-5 p.m. (Required Attendance: 3-4 p.m., Optional Coaching: 4-5 p.m.)
    Who's leading: Kaleb Cusack, Ph.D. and Holland Blackstock, M.A.

    In Focus is a five-week group that offers education and peer support for students who experience difficulties commonly associated with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Group meetings are interactive and help students develop skills for succeeding in school, career, and daily life. Group topics include goal setting, procrastination and time management, mood management, self-care, and relationships. During the second optional coaching hour group leaders and participants will work together to problem solve and develop strategies for group member’s individual challenges related to inattention and/or hyperactivity.

    Interested? Email Kaleb at ksusack@unr.edu before October 10 to sign up. Space is limited.

  • Interpersonal Group – Wednesday

    When: Wednesdays 3-4:30 p.m.
    Who's leading: Kseniya Zhuzha, Ph.D., CGP and Lee Elko, M.S.

    These groups focus on building awareness of self in relationships with others and practicing new ways of interacting with others within a safe and therapeutic environment. Common issues addressed in these groups include forming and maintaining relationships, communication styles, boundaries, self-awareness, emotional expression, intimacy, assertiveness, empathy and trust. Group sessions generally have little to no structure and students have freedom to bring up concerns pertinent to their lives. In the process, they are encouraged to explore and express their emotions, practice effective ways of communication, and notice how meaningful interpersonal connections are formed in the group.

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.

    Related resources:

  • Interpersonal Group – Thursday

    When: Thursdays 5-6:30 p.m.
    Who's leading: Kseniya Zhuzha, Ph.D., CGP and Anna Lujan-Sondgroth, Psy.D.

    These groups focus on building awareness of self in relationships with others and practicing new ways of interacting with others within a safe and therapeutic environment. Common issues addressed in these groups include forming and maintaining relationships, communication styles, boundaries, self-awareness, emotional expression, intimacy, assertiveness, empathy and trust. Group sessions generally have little to no structure and students have freedom to bring up concerns pertinent to their lives. In the process, they are encouraged to explore and express their emotions, practice effective ways of communication, and notice how meaningful interpersonal connections are formed in the group.

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.

    Related resources:

  • Mind and Body Group: Pursuing Holistic Health

    When: Fridays 1-3 p.m.
    Who's leading: Hilary Son, Psy.D., Jennifer Kavanagh, and Fitness Center Coaches
    Additional exercise times: Monday through Thursday at 11 a.m. (two exercise times required each week in addition to the Friday group therapy time). Equipment not required.

    College life can be stressful, draining, and overwhelming. This exercise and therapy group meets in person three times a week. It is designed to help participants increase coping through exercise, develop awareness of themselves, and address symptoms of anxiety and depression. The group offers a safe, supportive space to exercise, process feelings, develop coping skills, and connect with peers. Group members have the freedom to bring up concerns pertinent to their lives and have the opportunity to practice new ways of interacting with fellow group members.

    Interested? Please email Hilary at hjson@unr.edu and ask about a consultation. Only current University students are eligible.

  • Nourish and Flourish: Disordered Eating Meal Support Group

    When: Tuesdays 5-6 p.m.
    Who's leading: Susan Chamberlain, Ph.D.
    Where: Counseling Services Annex, Great Basin Hall

    The group provides an accepting space for students striving to nourish their bodies consistently. If you struggle to eat, feel out of control when you eat, avoid eating in front of others, exercise or purge after eating, or need to expand your “safe foods,” you are welcome here! Please bring your own food if you can, and we’ll have food available for anyone who needs it. It’s okay if you need to come late or leave early. We’ll be happy to see you whenever you can make it.

    Interested? Come to the Counseling Services Annex in Great Basin Hall at the time of the group. For questions, email Susan at susanchamberlain@unr.edu.

    Related resources:

  • Perfectionist No More

    When: Thursdays 3-4:30 p.m.
    Who's leading: Marquez Wilson, Psy.D. and Lee Elko, M.S.

    Welcome to "Perfectionist No More,” a therapy group where passion meets imperfection! Learn how to use coping skills to break the cycle of perfectionism, communicate effectively without overthinking, and dive into painting, sculpting, and improvisation by embracing the beauty of the imperfect brushstroke, the asymmetry in sculpture, and the spontaneous brilliance of improv. Let your creativity flow freely without the chains of perfectionism holding you back! Ready to embark on an adventure where the only rule is to break the rules? "Perfectionist No More" invites you to redefine your artistic boundaries, challenge perfectionist tendencies, and let your creativity soar. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just eager to explore, join us in embracing the beautiful chaos of creativity. It's time to liberate yourself and discover the magic within the imperfections!

    Interested? Please email Marquez Wilson, PsyD at marquezw@unr.edu and Mariam Halstead, LCSW at m.m.halstead@unr.edu and ask about a consultation. Only current University students are eligible.

  • Relationship Skills: Emotions and Vulnerability

    When: Thursdays 3-4 p.m.
    Who's leading: Amy O’Brien, LCSW

    This five-week skills group focuses on 1) increasing awareness of emotions 2) learning strategies for maintaining emotional safety in relationships, and 3) practicing deepening relationships through learning to express emotions vulnerably.

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.

    Related resources:

  • Relationship Skills: Foundations

    When: Tuesdays 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
    Who's leading: Marquez Wilson, Psy.D., Tyler Smith, MAT, and Lexi Clowers

    This group is for any student who wants to build social confidence and learn skills to make and keep new friends. The group is based on PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills) interventions and welcomes neurodiverse individuals and allies. You do not have to identify as neuro-spicy to participate.

    Topics covered include:

    • Starting and maintaining a conversation
    • Finding common interests
    • Entering and exiting conversations between peers
    • Finding a source of friends
    • Using electronic communication skillfully
    • Making phone calls to friends
    • Using humor appropriately

    This group is offered in collaboration with the Disability Resource Center (DRC).

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.

    Related resources:

    • Book by Elizabeth Laugeson, PsyD “The Science of Making Friends: Helping Socially Challenged Teens and Young Adults” available through the University library
    • Book by Steve Silberman “NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity” available through the University library
    • Book by Devon Price, Ph.D. “Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity”
  • Success Pizza: International Student Support Group

    When: First Friday of the month 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. (Sep 5, Oct 3, Nov 7, Dec 5)
    Who's leading: Hilary Son, Psy.D., Jodi Thomas, Psy.D., Edwin Tang, M.C., and Holland Blackstock, M.A., and OISS staff

    Being a student is stressful and can be made even more difficult when adjusting to a different culture. This support group is best suited for students who want to discuss adjustment to the U.S. culture and academic stress with fellow University international students in a supportive space. The group is run by Counseling Services therapists along with OISS staff.

    Interested? Please contact Adilia Ross at adiliab@unr.edu to register.

  • Trauma Education Group

    When: Mondays 3:30-4:30 p.m.
    Who's leading: Kseniya Zhuzha, Ph.D., CGP and Edwin Tang, M.C.

    This group focuses on skills for recognizing trauma response or symptoms and coping to reduce their intensity or duration. Topics include: symptoms of trauma and stress response, dealing with reminders, understanding thoughts, relaxation, anger and irritability, and sleep. Group sessions are structured and focus on learning a skill, concept, or tool. Note: this group does not involve talking about trauma or trauma details. Participants are encouraged to attend all six sessions.

    Interested?

    • If you are a current client of the University Counseling Services, please ask your clinician about this group.
    • If you are NOT a current client with us, please see how to schedule a same-day session.