Uncomfortable around new people? Coping with the death of a loved one?

The Carruth Center for Counseling and Psychological Services offers West Virginia University students a safe, supportive environment to explore and work through these and other issues with peers who share similar concerns.

This spring, the center is offering groups focusing on strengthening body image, improving relationships, dealing with grief and reducing social anxiety. These are free to most WVU studentsExtended Learning students can pay an optional fee for campus services.

Starting Jan. 30, the Therapy Group for Older Students is aimed at helping students learn to take better care of themselves emotionally and improve their relationships. Drs. Lynda Danley and Dan Long will lead the group for graduate and professional, as well as older undergraduate, students. Participants will meet Mondays beginning Jan. 30 from 5:30-7 p.m.

Body image problems? Weight concerns? The Body Confidence Group , overseen by Dr. Ian Kellems and graduate assistant Pamela Parent, will feature discussion and activities related to eating issues, body image, self-acceptance, stress management, interpersonal relationships and self-care. Tuesday sessions begin Jan. 31 from 4-5:30 p.m.

College campuses can be a difficult environment to find a place to reflect on the loss of a family member or friend. The Acknowledging Your Grief Group will help students set aside a time and place to reflect, remember and heal. Facilitated by Dr. Cathy Yura, director of the Carruth Center , and predoctoral intern Kristee Treadwell, the group will meet Wednesdays beginning Feb. 1 from 5-6 p.m.

Finally, if the thought of meeting someone new makes students’hearts pound and palms sweat, then they may be interested in the Becoming at Ease Around People Group . Led by Dr. Lisa Hamilton and predoctoral intern Terri White, participants will learn new approaches to social situations. Sessions start Feb. 1 and will be held every Wednesdayexcept for March 15from 5:30-7 p.m.

Groups are open to WVU students only and will meet at the Carruth Center on the third floor of the Student Services Building next to the Mountainlair.

To join a group or to learn more about counseling services available at WVU ’s Carruth Center , call 304-293-4431 to schedule an appointment with a staff member.