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The Talking Circle is a common method used to run a teen support and discussion group. This allows teenagers to discuss topics of their choice in a non-confrontational manner. Group members are usually seated in a circle and make comments on the topics of discussion following a small number of rules.

“Talking Circle” Rules

1. Only the person holding the talking stick may speak.
2. The goal is to listen as you would like to be listened to when you are speaking.
3. The “talking stick” is passed around until everyone who wants to has spoken.

General Format

Everybody is seated circle so that they can see everybody else’s face, including those on either side of them. Each person is given the opportunity to speak, with the speaker holding the talking stick. Members are asked to speak loudly enough for everyone in the circle can hear them.

No Interrupting

Participants are asked to not interrupt the speakers, though this “rule” may be broken by a request if the topic is very stimulating. (In this case, it is the facilitator’s decision to allow or disallow the interruption.) As the speaker completes their turn, they pass the stick to their neighbor, who may speak, or simply pass the stick on.

Use of “I” Statements

Discussion continues until the stick has been passed around the whole circle once in silence. Privacy is a key element to all talking circles,  and gossiping about others is not allowed. Members will be encouraged to use “I” statements to take personal ownership for their thoughts and feelings and thus communicate more directly. This can enhance each members’ capacity for intimacy through increasing the quality of their communication.

Participation is Voluntary

No one is forced to participate in group discussions, however, everyone will be encouraged. Members will be invited to listen beneath the words, and attempt to pick up the feelings that the words are expressing. Active participation in the group discussions will allow the participants to learn from each other, as well as discover that they are not alone in their feelings,

The Goal

The goal of this type of teen support group is to facilitate teens in maximizing their social skills and self-awareness, and discover their authentic expression. All potential members are usually interviewed prior to joining, to verify that the group is a fit for them.

Creating a Safe Space

The main ground rule is that everything discussed in group is held in confidence so as to create a safe space for members to feel free to open up. The groups I  lead are open, meaning that members may be added as other members decide to leave. Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be unquestionably unacceptable. Any casual discussions of drugs or alcohol will also be discouraged. Use of walkmans, cell phones or other electronic devices will not be permitted in the group.

I am currently interviewing people interested in joining the groups which will be starting in September, in my Santa Monica office.

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For more information, please visit my website:

SandraDupontMFT.com

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tags: find a teen therapist, parenting teens, teen advice, teen depression, teen peer pressure, teen self esteem, teen support groups, teenagers problems

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