It Won't Happen to Me:
Substance Abuse-Related Violence Against Women for Anyone Concerned About The Issues

Supplements

Individual Counseling

Most counseling centers around the country that handle domestic violence have staff trained in one-on-one counseling. These counselors know the many reasons for domestic violence and how hard it is for a woman to leave her abuser. Most counselors are also trained to understand cultural and religious beliefs that may affect a woman's decision to leave.

Since the 1970s, domestic violence programs mainly follow what is called the "feminist approach" to counseling. In this approach, the woman is seen as strong and capable, not sick and weak. The counselor cannot tell a woman what is best for her. Only that woman knows what is best and she is encouraged to make her own individual choice to empower her. The therapist helps provide resources and options to the woman but does not advocate a "treatment" path. The counselor and client are partners.1

References

  1. Pence, E. In Our Best Interest: A Process for Personal and Social Change. Duluth: Minnesota Program Development, Inc., 1987.

<< Previous Page