Support Groups

Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS) at Columbia Health provides Support Groups for students. If you’re interested in joining a support group, begin by checking the groups offered on this page and filling out the Support Groups Request form or emailing the group’s facilitator(s) for information, instructions, and location-specifics. 

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Group Descriptions
Frequently Asked Questions
Support Group Registration Form

Support Groups at Columbia Health 

Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS) offers various topic-specific support groups and workshop series to meet the diverse needs of Columbia University students. In each group, we bring together students with similar experiences who are interested in receiving support. Groups typically consist of 12-15 students. Students may register for multiple support groups or workshops, at the facilitator's discretion.  

Due to the nature of groups, there is no guarantee of confidentiality or privacy, though participants are encouraged to be respectful and practice discretion. If the event is virtual, we ask that all participants have their camera on during group sessions. Workshops and groups are intended to be interactive spaces, not group therapy. 

Students are welcome to join support spaces and groups that are in progress unless otherwise indicated in the group description. Please contact the facilitator if you have any questions. 

All hours are listed in Eastern time. 

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Group Descriptions

Support Groups

Program Description: This is a space for all Columbia students who are currently struggling with sleep, either as a longstanding problem or as a new issue. In this in person support space, we will teach cognitive behavioral skills specific for insomnia, to help improve both quantity and quality of sleep. As part of the program, we will develop better sleep hygiene by shifting your sleep cycle, focusing on daytime/nighttime routines, breaking bad habits, setting new rules for sleep, and completing a weekly sleep diary to monitor success.

  • Program Dates: September 21, 2026 - October 19, 2026
  • Day/Time of Session: weekly on Mondays, 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
  • Format: In-person
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. Michele Goldman and Dr. Jennifer Liu

Program Description: Do you often feel overwhelmed, nervous, self-conscious, or unsure of yourself in social situations or interpersonal interactions?

This is a 8‑week in-person workshop for anyone who wants to feel more ease around others, feel more comfortable in conversations and connecting with others, and freer to be themselves. Together, we'll engage in discussions and reflections, explore practical strategies, engage in group activities, and practice stepping outside our comfort zones in a supportive and encouraging space. The group will meet once a week for 1 hour and 15 minutes, with each session structured to blend mindfulness practice, experiential learning, and guided exposures. 

  • Program Dates: October 6, 2026 - December 1, 2026 (except November 3, 2026)
  • Day/Time of Session: weekly on Tuesdays, 4:00 p.m. - 5:15 p.m.
  • Format: In-person
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. Manali Roy

Program Description: Have you been in romantic relationships where you felt unsafe or unsure of yourself? Have you experienced trauma from the past that makes you hesitant to be open to love again? In this 8-week group, we will share a safer space to learn about unhealthy relationship dynamics and red flags. Our goal is to help you feel more empowered to communicate your needs and boundaries effectively, regulate emotions, and feel confident in the choices you make about dating. All students are welcome. 

  • Program Dates: October 6, 2026 - December 1, 2026
  • Day/Time of Session: weekly on Tuesdays, 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.
  • Format: In-person
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. Mercedes Okosi

Program Description: Returning to college after a medical leave can bring a mix of uncertainty and new challenges. This supportive group offers a safe, confidential space to connect with other students navigating the transition back to campus. Together, we’ll explore topics such as managing stress, rebuilding routines, strengthening relationships, balancing academics and well-being, and finding confidence in this next chapter. Whether you’re looking for support, understanding, or a sense of community, you don’t have to navigate the return alone. 

  • Program Dates: October 7, 2026 - November 25, 2026
  • Day/Time of Session: weekly on Wednesdays, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
  • Format: In-person
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. Andrew Colitz

Program Description: Getting Things Done (GTD) is a weekly, in-person group focused on issues of procrastination, time-management, and emotions around work. The group uses both psychoeducation and discussion to help members to develop work strategies, improve self-regulation, obtain social support, and increase accountability as they build a more effective and healthier relationship to Getting Things Done. If you are interested in joining, please reach out to the group leaders for a brief screening and discussion of group expectations. 

  • Program Dates: September 23, 2026 - December 9, 2026
  • Day/Time of Session: weekly on Wednesdays, 3:00 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.
  • Format: In-person
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. David Hittson and Rachel Turkel

Program Description: Have you ever felt overwhelmed by emotions? Or had difficulties managing distress? Join this workshop and learn how to manage and endure emotional distress without resorting to harmful behaviors. Workshop participants will learn and practice skills to tolerate and cope with difficult emotions. Key components of the workshop include mindfulness techniques, practical tools to handle acute distress, and reality acceptance skills. 

  • Program Dates: September 30, 2026 - December 9, 2026
  • Day/Time of Session: weekly on Wednesdays, 3:15 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
  • Format: In-person
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. Marina Mazur

Program Description: A supportive space open to both undergraduate and graduate students who are on the Autism spectrum.

  • Program Dates: September 17, 2026 - December 10, 2026
  • Day/Time of Session: weekly on Thursdays, 4:15 p.m. - 5:15 p.m.
  • Format: In-person
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. Emilia Mikrut

Program Description: Letting go of perfectionism and cultivating authentic connections with others. A judgment-free space to explore and better understand your relationships, with support from a psychologist. We will explore topics like expectations (including perfectionistic tendencies), boundaries, maintaining self-respect, addressing conflict, asking for what you want and saying "no" effectively. Bring your curiosity and questions!

  • Program Dates: September 24, 2026 - December 3, 2026 (except November 26, 2026)
  • Day/Time of Session: weekly on Thursdays, 5:30 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
  • Format: In-person
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. Maria Narimanidze

Workshops

Program Description: This 4-session in-person workshop may be what you need to turn the dial down on procrastination and finish the semester strong. This workshop will help you figure out how to let go of self-regulation problems and learn to take the necessary steps toward achieving your goals. We will look at underlying causes of procrastination and introduce techniques such as use of goal setting, time management techniques, and how to use accountability to achieve what matters to you most. The workshop will focus on the concerns of the Columbia University student, but all community members are welcome to participate. Come have fun and work on getting things done.

  • Program Dates: October 5, 2026 - October 26, 2026
  • Day/Time of Session: weekly on Mondays, 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
  • Format: In-person
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. Yaniv Phillips

Program Description: Have a strong foundation for your committed relationship, but want to make it even better? This might be the workshop for you. This hands-on, sequential 4-session workshop will provide practical tools for couples who wish to strengthen their relationship. Topics include: 1. Understanding Relational Expectations and Beliefs 2. Nurturing the Positives in the Relationship 3. Improving Problem-Solving Ability and Communication Skills. The workshop is open to all Columbia students and their partners. 

Program Description: We offer two workshops for international students designed to address your experience at Columbia. We will discuss: 1. Academics (10/2) - how to maximize your experience in class and with your professors; how and when to get to know professors; managing expectations; participating in class; collaborating with other students; asking for help and more. 2. Social Life (10/9) - how to balance new friends and romantic relationships; navigating forming new relationships when living in a language and culture that are not your own;  getting comfortable; learning social norms; managing expectations; feeling lonely. Registration required. To join, email [email protected] and with "International" in the subject line. 

  • Program Dates: October 2, 2026 - October 9, 2026
  • Day/Time of Session: Fridays, 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
  • Format: In-person
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. Yaniv Phillips

Program Description: College and graduate school can be demanding, often leaving students feeling overwhelmed, self-critical, or disconnected from what matters most. This interactive workshop introduces practical skills from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Participants will learn strategies to navigate difficult thoughts and emotions with greater flexibility, reduce the struggle with stress and anxiety, and develop habits that support resilience, focus, and well-being. Through guided mindfulness exercises, reflection, and discussion, students will explore how to stay present, make room for life’s challenges, and move toward a life guided by their values rather than their fears. 

  • Program Dates: October 22, 2026 - November 12, 2026
  • Day/Time of Session: weekly on Thursdays, 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
  • Format: Virtual
  • Facilitator(s): Dr. Andrew Colitz and TBA

Frequently Asked Questions

All Columbia students on the Morningside/Manhattanville campus who have paid the full-time Columbia Health and Related Services Fee are eligible to participate in support groups. For group-specific eligibility criteria, please refer to the group descriptions. 

There is no fee for support groups for students who have paid the full-time Columbia Health and Related Services Fee.

To join a support group, fill out our Support Group Request form or email the group’s facilitator(s) for information, instructions, and location-specifics.  

Support groups are often a good fit for those who want to connect with peers with similar concerns and benefit from shared experiences. If you feel like you could learn from others, receive support from peers, or work on social interactions, support groups could be a great option. If you're unsure, a CPS provider can help clarify whether a support group is the right choice based on your goals and needs.

Some groups and workshops are excellent settings in which to learn valuable coping strategies. 

It's completely normal to feel nervous before joining a group. Many students feel unsure at first. Your group facilitator will help ease you in, and you’ll never be pressured to share more than you feel comfortable with.

You’re never obligated to stay in a group if it doesn’t feel right. We encourage you to attend a few sessions before deciding. Many students find support groups more helpful than they expected.

If you don’t find something that meets your needs, please check back. We add to our offerings throughout the year. You may also email Aisha Holder, Associate Clinical Director for Outreach and Community Clinical Services, with your suggestions at [email protected]. 

Complete the form below or contact the facilitator directly to join a support group or workshop.

To select multiple groups or workshops, press and hold the command key and click each option you would like to select. Once you have submitted the form, the facilitator will reach out with next steps. 

Support Group Sign Up Form
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