What is ASGW?

The Association for Specialists in Group Work was founded in 1973 as a division of the American Counseling Association. ASGW exists so that members and other helping professionals are empowered with the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to practice effective, socially just, and ethical group work in a diverse and global society.

Mission

Vision

Values

Leadership

State Branches

President’s Welcome Note

Welcome to the Association for Specialists in Group Work. ASGW is a welcoming community where members share a passion for providing effective, culturally responsive group work across multiple settings and professions. I am honored to serve as ASGW President (2021-2022). As we look forward to the upcoming year, I want to highlight some exciting ongoing efforts and opportunities.

Call for Committee Members
ASGW relies on the gracious dedication and service of its members to function and thrive. If you would like to serve on a committee this year, please complete this form.
ASGW Conference
We have an awesome conference planned from February 17-20, 2022 in Atlantic Beach, Florida. The conference theme will be “Group Work Innovations in a Transforming World.” We sincerely hope you can join us for this meaningful group experience!
ASGW Day of Service
Just before the conference begins, we will be partnering with a local organization in Florida to hold a day of service in which members can participate. More details to come… stay tuned!
Commitment to Advocacy and Social Justice Initiatives
We plan to continue current efforts and establish new initiatives for effectively using group work to transform hate, facilitate courageous conversations, and enhance community building. Watch out for opportunities to join these efforts and contribute your ideas!

I look forward to working with all of you this year,

Lorraine J. Guth, Ph.D
ASGW President (2021-2022)

Mission

The purpose of the Association shall be to establish standards for professional and ethical practice; to support research and the dissemination of knowledge; and to provide professional leadership in the field of group work. In addition, the Association shall seek to extend counseling through the use of group processes; to provide a forum for examining innovative and developing concepts in group work; to foster diversity and dignity in our groups; and to be models of effective group practice.

Vision

To be an organization that…

advances ethical group work practice and implements
its national standards for group work
is recognized nationally as the preeminent group work
training organization
reflects multicultural diversity in leadership positions
is regularly developing and disseminating outstanding
group work training materials
sponsors and trains group worker leaders at a variety
of levels for a variety of settings through seminars,
workshops, and conferences
encourages an active and involved membership
is inclusive, creative, and resourceful
uses the group process observer as an essential
ingredient of organizational dynamics and advocates
its use elsewhere
fulfills our mission and lives our values
monitors and appropriately interacts with its parent
organization, the American Counseling Association

Values

As Counseling Professionals who are interested in and specialize in group work, we value the creation of community; service to our members, their clients, and the profession; and leadership as a process to facilitate the growth and development of individuals and groups.

SERVICE

LEADERSHIP

COMMUNITY

Members experience a vibrant, caring, and diverse community.
Research relevant to group work is systematically supported and disseminated.
ASGW professional standards exist, continue to evolve, and guide group work.
Helping professionals practice evidence-based and innovative group work models.
Group work professionals benefit from opportunities and resources for training, practice, and professional growth.
The principles of multiculturalism, social justice, and global perspectives permeate all group work.