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Support and Therapy Groups
The Counseling Center offers multiple groups that explore a variety of topics and identities, led by mental health providers at our center. Groups offer benefits that differ from individual therapy, such as feeling less alone, diverse perspectives, feedback, encouragement, and peer connection in a safe and confidential space. Research has shown that group therapy is one of the most effective ways to address common concerns faced by our students.
Our groups are available to all MSU Denver students who are enrolled in at least 1 course credit the semester they wish to participate. Please note that prior to joining a group, an initial screening appointment is required to determine group fit. If you are a student who is interested in a group, please call our office at 303-615-9988 or schedule your initial appointment online.
Fall 2025 Schedule Coming Soon
This therapy group is for anyone who is tired of feeling insecure in their body and wants to build confidence in their life and relationships. This group offers an empowerment and relationally-focused framework to talk about different factors that affect body image, address personal body image concerns, and learn to challenge negative body talk.
NOTE: Body image concerns often co-occur with disordered eating patterns. However, if you are actively engaging in an eating disorder, this group may not be appropriate for you. Please schedule an initial screening and a clinician will help you access the support you need.
When: Mondays, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m
Facilitator: Kathy Kavanaugh, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
This therapy group is designed for individuals who desire growth, insight, and awareness of both self and others by relating effectively with other group members in a safe, supportive environment.
When: Mondays, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m
Facilitator: Michael Malmon, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
This therapy group will focus on accepting difficult emotions – Hey! They are a part of life! Moving away from trying to deny, suppress, distract or otherwise avoid challenging thoughts and feelings, you will work towards accepting your inner experiences without judgment, and with more psychological flexibility.
When: Tuesdays, 9:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Facilitator: Lisa Boyum, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
This is a therapy process group designed to build community among its members to address many diverse emotional struggles and enhance interpersonal relationships. We do this through the use of art and through sharing in a supportive environment.
Counseling staff facilitate this community-building group encouraging artistic expression, self-reflection, and individual sharing. Participants require no previous artistic experience and are encouraged to simply enjoy the process of creating!
When: Tuesdays, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Randal Boldt, Psy.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
There are moments when stress, feeling down or anxiety can take up too much space in our lives. This group will provide time to find support and consider ways to mindfully approach our lives and the ups and downs that inevitably come our way by learning skills and mindful practices to help us find a healthy balance in life.
When: Wednesdays, 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m
Facilitator: Ray Gornell, Psy.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
As an adult survivor of sexual abuse or assault, you have been living with these memories for a long time. Some survivors keep the abuse a secret for many years. You may have tried to tell an adult and were met with resistance or felt there was no one you could trust. For these reasons and many others, the effects of sexual abuse can occur many years after the abuse has ended. Remember that there is no set timeline for dealing with and recovering from this experience. This group can provide the safe space for you to receive the support you have long needed but never quite found.
When: Wednesdays, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Vicky Tuakoi, Psy.D., Staff Psychotherapist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
The Men’s Process Group is a supportive space for students who identify as men to discuss a range of issues related to their social and emotional wellbeing, challenge traditional norms that constrain choices and self-expression, and learn to connect with others more authentically.
When: Thursdays, 2:00 p.m. – 3:20 p.m.
Facilitator: Andrew Sia, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
Dialectical behavioral therapy or DBT is a form of talk therapy. It can help you learn to accept yourself without judgment. At the same time, you’ll work on changing negative, unhealthy behaviors that are holding you back in your life. If you struggle to manage your emotions or control unhealthy or harmful behaviors, DBT could be a good choice for you. You’ll learn new problem-solving and coping skills.
When: Thursdays, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Facilitator: Vicky Tuakoi, Psy.D., Staff Psychotherapist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open
This therapy group is designed for individuals who desire growth, insight, and awareness of both self and others by relating effectively with other group members in a safe, supportive environment.
When: Fridays, 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Facilitator: Michael Malmon, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist
Location: Tivoli 651
Group Status: Open