Virtual client Experience

Working With Groups

Facilitating Group Dynamics

Simulated Client
In this simulation activity, students will lead a Self-Esteem small group workshop that meets weekly with six attendees. During the simulation, students will encounter a conflict between group members, including frustration with the group's outcomes, reluctance to engage, and a tendency to rescue others. The simulation is designed to help students develop the skills and confidence needed to facilitate group therapy sessions, including managing conflict, creating a safe space, and supporting group members. By practicing real-world scenarios in a safe and supportive environment, students will be better prepared to provide quality care to clients in their future therapy careers.

Gun Violence Support Group

Simulated Client
In this simulation activity, social work students will facilitate a support group session for individuals affected by gun violence. The group includes George, Elena, and Chris, who have all lost loved ones to gun violence. During the simulation, students will be prompted to facilitate the discussion and support group activities, providing a safe and supportive environment for group members to share their experiences and emotions. This simulation is designed to help social work students develop the skills and confidence needed to facilitate support groups, including active listening, empathy, and creating a safe space for group members. By practicing real-world scenarios in a safe and supportive environment, students will be better prepared to provide quality care to individuals affected by gun violence in their future social work careers.

Physical Science: Properties of Matter

Simulated Client
In this simulation activity, middle school education students will facilitate a group discussion in a science class with Davy, Dev, Savannah, Jasmine, and Ethan. The discussion question is "Which is densest: ice, water, or steam?" and the students must form a hypothesis and answer the question as a group. During the simulation, students will be prompted to facilitate the discussion, encourage participation from all group members, and guide the group towards a conclusion. This simulation is designed to help education students develop the skills and confidence needed to facilitate group discussions, including active listening, encouraging participation, and guiding the group towards a conclusion. By practicing real-world scenarios in a safe and supportive environment, students will be better prepared to provide quality education and facilitate group discussions in their future teaching careers.

Substance Abuse Group Therapy

Simulated Client
In this immersive and emotionally charged simulation, learners will participate in a substance abuse group therapy session featuring three diverse characters: Maria, Rosalyn, and Cliff. Each character is grappling with substance abuse for distinct reasons, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of addiction and the impact of trauma. Through these characters' stories, participants will gain empathy and understanding for individuals dealing with addiction, hone their communication skills, recognize the impact of trauma on addiction, and explore a holistic approach to treatment, fostering a safe and non-judgmental environment for individuals seeking recovery. This simulation encourages learners to approach addiction with empathy, considering the various factors contributing to it, and explores therapeutic strategies for recovery while emphasizing the vital role of empathy, active listening, and trauma-informed care in supporting individuals on their journey to healing and sobriety.