A counterbalance apparatus for use in a workstation to raise and lower a work surface of the workstation. The counterbalance apparatus compensates for the load on the work surface. The counterbalance apparatus includes an inner column telescopingly mounted in an outer column. A base member is positioned at one end of the outer column. A grooved member positioned between the inner column and the base member and a force mechanism between the grooved member and the inner column or the work surface. The grooved member moves in and out of the inner column and base member to raise and lower the work surface.