If a oneway mirror or audio/video equipment is being used, the moderator informs participants they are being recorded and that clients are sitting behind the one-way mirror. Sometimes group members are asked to introduce themselves with a few short remarks.
This approach breaks the ice, gets each participant to talk, and continues the process of building positive group dynamics and comfort zones. After completing the ground rules and introductions, the moderator asks the first question, which is designed to engage participants in the discussion