ABSTRACT
The Envelope Closure activity offers a simple yet effective process for engaging participants in reflecting upon each member's presence and contribution to the group. It facilitates individual review of the total experience and allows for interpersonal connection in a nonthreatening manner. The Envelope Closure activity is appropriate for the termination stage of the broad range of treatment groups: support groups, social skills groups, psychoeducation groups, growth groups, remedial groups, and other group types. The therapist should begin the activity by summarizing the group experience, and highlighting events and processes that occurred during the life of the group. The envelopes can be plain white mailing envelopes or decorated larger-size envelopes. One variation is to have members decorate and personalize their own envelopes. Receiving the envelopes can serve as a positive reminder of the group experience, the relationships that evolved, and the principles, learning, and meaning of the group.
