Overcoming Anxiety

An Eight-Week Counseling Group for Adults

This eight-week group counseling program is designed to help adults understand and manage anxiety in a supportive, collaborative environment. Through evidence-based strategies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and relaxation techniques, participants will build practical tools for reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being. Each session will focus on a specific theme, fostering growth and connection among group members as they work toward shared and individual goals.

Group Outline

Title: Overcoming Anxiety: An Eight-Week Counseling Group for Adults
Target Audience: Adults (ages 18 and older) experiencing anxiety
Group Size: 8-12 participants
Duration: 8 weeks, 1.5 hours per session
Day/Time: Saturdays, 10-11:30am
Dates: FALL 2025 (DATES COMING SOON)
Format: In-person
Cost: $50.00 per session (self-pay)
Facilitator: Michael Trexler, Ph.D., LMHC
Objectives:
• Equip participants with tools to manage and reduce anxiety
• Foster a supportive environment to share experiences
• Teach evidence-based techniques for long-term anxiety management

For more information or to schedule a free screening, email office@pomcsindy.com.

Weekly Curriculum

Week 1: Introduction and Building a Foundation

Icebreakers and introductions
Group rules and expectations
Overview of anxiety: symptoms, causes, and effects
Introduction to the “anxiety cycle”

Week 2: Understanding Anxiety Triggers

Identifying personal triggers
Differentiating between external and internal triggers
Introduction to self-monitoring tools (e.g., journals or apps)

Week 3: Cognitive Behavioral Techniques

Overview of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Identifying and challenging negative thought patterns
Practicing reframing techniques

Week 4: Mindfulness and Relaxation Strategies

Introduction to mindfulness practices
Guided mindfulness meditation session
Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR)

Week 5: Managing Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

Understanding the mind-body connection
Breathing techniques for anxiety reduction
Gentle movement exercises (e.g., yoga or stretching)

Week 6: Communication and Interpersonal Skills

Recognizing anxiety in social situations
Assertiveness training
Role-playing common scenarios

Week 7: Coping Strategies and Self-Care

Exploring healthy coping mechanisms
Developing a self-care plan
Stress management techniques

Week 8: Review, Closure, and Future Planning

Reflecting on progress and challenges
Developing a personalized anxiety management plan
Sharing resources for continued growth
Closing activity to celebrate completion