Group Counselling for Men
For: Adults
Available in: North East Metro Perth Metro Wheatbelt
This free program gives men a safe space to access AOD and relationship support, whether they need help addressing their own alcohol or drug use or dealing with the impact of a family member’s alcohol or drug use.
About the program
Across 12 weekly therapeutic peer-group sessions, provided in an open group format and tailored to suit the group and individuals’ needs, participants explore a range of concepts, with a focus on the effects of problem substance use and other dependent behaviours on the family unit. This includes:
- Understanding dependency. Providing a deeper understanding of the process of dependency.
- Change and relapse prevention. Learning about change and relapse prevention, managing expectations, preparing for setbacks and letting go.
- Self-responsibility and family dynamics. Understanding self-responsibility, the impact of substance use on family dynamics and practical coping skills and strategies.
In addition to these educational elements, the program provides space for group discussions. It’s a safe, welcoming environment where men can share their stories, gain inspiration and build strong bonds with other men with similar experiences. Participants learn from and with each other, developing new skills and practical coping strategies that enable them to move forward and make positive, sustainable changes.
How it works
Initially, participants meet with their individual counsellor for a full assessment and introduction to the group program, which consists of 12 weekly sessions and topics (participants can start on any week or topic).
The sessions are led by highly trained and experienced facilitators who create a safe, supportive and non-judgemental environment, fostering open dialogue and encouraging personal growth. Each session runs for two hours, beginning with a 10-minute mindfulness activity followed by a 20-minute presentation on the topic for the day.
Then, after a short break, the group meets under the guidance of one of our professional counsellors using the TAP model: Theme Building, Awareness Raising, and Problem Solving. Participants are asked to say their first name and report their emotions. There’s no obligation to talk or share anything. In fact, participants don’t have to talk at all – they’re free to simply sit and listen.
From there, the group explores a key idea or theme, often inspired by the topic of the day but also by what people share – participants are encouraged to raise problems themselves. The group then concludes with participants reporting their emotions.
The outcomes and benefits
People who participate in the program gain increased awareness and a sense of hope, empowerment and determination to achieve their recovery goals. Members of the group learn from each other and, by sharing their experiences, reduce the feelings of shame and stigma that people affected by alcohol and drug dependency often feel.
“It’s great to be in a place where I am listened to. I don’t feel alone in this.”
“I feel a sense of freedom, letting go of things I cannot control and focusing on taking responsibility for my own life.”
Our group counselling program runs every week, with sessions during the day and some evenings. If you would like to join the group, please speak to your counsellor or contact reception on 9416 4444 or email clientservices@holyoake.org.au.