Group Counseling for Probationers and Staff

Abstract

Group counseling of juveniles on probation is different from this form of counseling in institutions or out-patient clinics. The Sacramento County Probation Department initiated a group counseling program which provided continuing training for the probation officers working with groups throughout the existence of each group. At the same time, these officers were members of their own adult groups. This helped to provide first-hand ex perience of group processes as well as the opportunity to profit from personal involvement in a group. Twelve officers started their groups in September 1963. Under my guidance, eleven groups were in operation in May 1964, when they were termi nated for the summer. Reports indicated that adjustment of the juveniles in these groups was improved. Staff group counseling demonstrated an increase of effective communication among the officers and a general rise in staff morale.