Purpose
of The Intervention Program for Women (IPW)
This program provides a framework for group intervention for battered women who have used force. The IPW group addresses the social and cultural context of the women's lives. This program is designed to address the needs of battered women who have used force by addressing both their victimization and their use of force.
The goals of the IPW are to help women in:
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Identifying and stopping violent behaviors.
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Identifying and building upon women's strengths and resources.
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Exploring resilience in the the face of adversity.
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Learning and practicing new behaviors that lead to more peaceful relationships.
IPW Group Structure
The group meets weekly for two hours and is led by two women from the staff at Advocates for Family Peace. Group members are responsible for regular attendance, fee payment (based on ability to pay), participation and homework assignments. All groups are confidential.
IPW Group Content
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The bigger picture of violence |
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What is battering? |
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Types of violence in intimate relationships |
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The effects of violence |
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Taking steps towards change |
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Building social support |
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Transforming anger |
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Acting assertively |
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Responding to the needs of children |
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Women's stories of resistance |
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Women's stories of courage |
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Finding turning points |
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Developing a self care plan |
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Spirituality |
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Sexuality and intimacy |
Understanding Women's Use of Violence
Women's use of violence must be understood within the context in which it occurs, including social conditions that affect women's lives, as well as, their individual circumstances and relationships. Most women who use violence in heterosexual relationships do not engage in a pattern of coercive control that is typical of battering. Women's violence is often a form of resistance to the oppression they experience in their lives.
How to Participate in the IPW
Volunteer
If by self assessment you believe you need help with violent and abusive behaviors, the IPW accepts volunteer participants.
Court Ordered
Orders for Protection
If you have been abusive to your partner, you may have an Order for Protection (OFP) filed against you. If you need clarification about an OFP that has been brought against you, call the Advocates’ office at 218-326-0388. Women can be court ordered to the IPW through Orders for Protection.
Criminal Charges
Any time you physically assault your partner or a family member, you commit a crime. If you are convicted of domestic assault or a related crime you may serve jail time, pay a fine, and/or be placed on probation. Most domestic violence convictions result in a referral to the IPW.
CHPS
If it has been determined by the court that you have failed to protect your children you may be ordered to IPW through a child protection order.
Schedule
Grand Rapids
Mondays at the Advocates for Family Peace Office 1:30-3:00pm