George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Learn wellness skills in a supportive setting
Would you like to learn new skills to support your well-being, navigate difficult emotions, or communicate effectively in times of stress?
Wellness Skills-Building Groups offer currently registered students the opportunity to explore useful techniques in a supportive community of other students in sessions led by our professional counsellors.
Groups differ each term, so please check back for updates. Some are in-person at specific campuses, and some are virtual. Spaces are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
See information for joining below.
2026 Groups
Groups will return in Fall 2026
Groups are not running in the Spring/Summer 2026 term. Please check back in the Fall 2026 term for more information.
FAQ
What are the benefits of wellness skill-building groups?
Research shows that group-based learning is an effective and efficient way to learn wellness skills.
Through a structured approach, you will learn new tools and benefit from the experiences and support of your peers and the facilitator(s). After a few sessions, you may begin noticing improvements, which may lead to improved emotional and overall well-being and a greater sense of connection to others who share similar experiences. Students often report that through the group process, they learn that they are not alone and feel supported and empowered to build lives that feel more satisfying to them. Students also report improvements in several areas of their lives, such as emotion regulation, stress management, relationships, mood and daily functioning, etc.
What can I expect from a group?
Each group is different in content, but in general, you can expect to learn new skills from a professional counsellor, connect with peers, and engage in experiential wellness activities. If there is a contact person listed for a group, you may reach out to them directly for more information.
Do I have to keep my camera on during virtual groups?
We ask that participants keep their camera on during their group session. This will help you connect with your peers and us.
What kind of time commitment is involved?
Groups typically last up to an hour or an hour and a half. They typically run weekly, but each group has a determined number of weeks. Some groups require you to attend all sessions, some do not. These details are specified under each group’s description.
What can we share in groups? Is it confidential?
You are welcome to share what you feel comfortable sharing. In all of our groups, we emphasize the importance of confidentiality by asking everyone to respect each other’s privacy and keep what is shared in the group confidential. If you have concerns, please speak with the counsellor facilitator.
I'm shy and may not feel comfortable in a group setting. Should I still attend?
Yes! This is normal. You can participate to your level of comfort. Many students feel nervous about attending a group at first; however, after a few sessions, most students report appreciating the opportunity to make connections with others, learn new skills, and develop themselves.
What if my classmates see me in a group?
It’s normal to feel nervous about encountering your classmates in a group, and if you do, they are likely feeling the same way. We emphasize the importance of confidentiality and aim to create a safe and private space in all our groups. If you have concerns, please speak with the counsellor facilitator.
Can I join a group if I'm located outside of Ontario?
Due to professional restrictions, George Brown Polytechnic can only offer mental health counselling and groups to students who are physically located in the province of Ontario on the day of the group. This applies even if you have an Ontario address.