Girl Power - Girls Group Therapy Program

Girl Power explores issues including:

·       Self‑esteem and identity: Activities and discussions to help girls understand and appreciate their unique strengths and values.

·       Friendship and peer relationships: Building healthy connections, managing peer pressure, and resolving conflicts.

·       Assertiveness and communication styles: Developing confidence to express needs and set boundaries respectfully.

·       Online safety and digital boundaries: Understanding risks, privacy settings, and strategies to stay safe online.

·       Healthy relationships and protective behaviours: Recognising signs of respect and disrespect, and learning how to seek help.

·       Sexual health education: Age-appropriate information to promote informed choices and bodily autonomy.

·       Respectful gender dialogue and peer connection: Encouraging open conversations about gender roles and expectations.

·       Mindfulness, reflection, and group closure rituals: Techniques to enhance emotional regulation and celebrate group achievements.

Age Range: This group is designed for secondary school participants, with content that can be adapted for older primary-aged students (Grades 5 &6).

Gender: Female group

Group Size: 6–12 participants to ensure meaningful interaction and individual attention.

The Girl Power group therapy program is best suited to:

·       Girls who are navigating the complex social and emotional challenges of adolescence.

·       Students who may benefit from additional support in self‑esteem, relationships, and personal safety but do not require individual therapy.

·       Participants who are motivated to engage in a supportive group environment to develop resilience and social skills.

Session Length: 1 hour

Program Duration: 10 weekly sessions

Frequency: Once per week

The program is facilitated by a registered psychologist from Lakeside Rooms, ensuring a safe, supportive, and developmentally appropriate environment. The psychologist leads all sessions and supports students in applying skills in real‑life situations.

All sessions can be delivered on campus, providing accessibility and minimising disruption to the school day. A consistent, private space is recommended to support emotional safety and focus.

Girl Power can also run at Lakeside Rooms based on interest and availability.

Group Format

·       Weekly sessions combining discussion, activities, and reflection to engage diverse learning styles.

·       Creative and interactive formats including art, role play, and scenario‑based learning to deepen understanding.

·       Opportunities for peer feedback and group bonding to build trust and social skills.

·       Final session includes celebration and certificate presentation to acknowledge growth and participation.

Students may be referred through:

·       School‑initiated referral (well-being staff, teachers, leadership).

·       Parent‑initiated referral (via the school or directly to Lakeside Rooms).

A brief screening process ensures the group is appropriate for each participant.

The Girl Power Group Therapy has been found to offer the following benefits:

Student Well-being

·       Builds confidence, self‑esteem, and emotional literacy through evidence-based activities.

·       Supports students navigating peer pressure, identity, and relationships with practical tools.

Early Intervention

·       Addresses emerging social and emotional challenges before escalation.

·       Helps identify students who may benefit from further support or individual therapy.

Classroom Engagement

·       Improves focus, participation, and peer dynamics by fostering emotional regulation.

·       Reduces interpersonal conflict and emotional disruption in the classroom.

Emotional Regulation

·       Teaches practical strategies for managing stress and strong emotions.

·       Supports respectful communication and boundary setting.

Social Functioning

·       Strengthens peer relationships and group cohesion.

·       Builds assertiveness, kindness, and respect across genders.

Under the Medicare Better Access initiative, group therapy is eligible for a Medicare rebate when provided under a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan (MHTP) with an appropriate referral from a GP, psychiatrist, or paediatrician.

Under this initiative patients can claim up to 10 group therapy sessions per calendar year, separate from individual session limits.

The group must be focused on treating a diagnosed mental health condition and provided by an eligible practitioner.

Rebates for group sessions are generally lower than for individual sessions, and treatment must be clinically appropriate.

More details on eligibility and session limits are available from the Australian Government Department of Health.