Experiential Methods in a Group Counseling Program with Blind Children

Abstract

□ We have, in this paper, tried to describe some of the experiential techniques and methods used in a group counseling situation with blind adolescents. We have also tried to show that by using these methods, the group advanced a little further and a little faster than might otherwise have been the case. During the clinical services meeting, the other group leaders stated that their groups were often avoiding confrontations of their feelings, while we were able to state that members of our group sometimes overwhelmed us with their insights. Possibly this was because “our” technique kept the members alert and involved, showed them that we were interested and would let them do and say things that would normally have been forbidden, and let them know that we wanted to offer them a chance to experience new things. Because of this, their reactions and interactions were more spontaneous and “off guard.”