Purpose of The Intervention Program for Women (IPW)

IPW is an intervention program for women who have used violence in interpersonal relationships.  Violent behavior is learned from the family and our culture.  Violence is a chosen behavior on the part of the violent person.  A desire for power and control motivates the use of violence.  The IPW conducts groups for women to help them change their violent behaviors.

The goals of the IPW are to help women in:

1. Identifying and stopping violent behaviors.

2. 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

1. Recognition and acknowledgment of abuse

2. How we use threats, intimidation and isolation to control

3. Alternatives to physical and emotional abuse

4. Effects of domestic violence on children

5. Parenting skills

6. Anger – what it is and how we use it.

7. Communication skills

8. Building healthy relationships

Who is appropriate for the IPW?

Answer the follow questions.  If you answered yes to one or more of the questions, call 218-326-0388 to set up an intake interview for the IPW. 

Self-Assessment: Have you ever...

1. Threatened bodily harm to your partner or children?

2. Hit, kicked, shoved or thrown things at your partner or children?

3. Attempted to control whom your partner talks to or spends time with?

4. Follow or stalked your partner?

5. Blamed your partner when you used physical abuse, threats or verbal abuse?

6. Blamed you partner for mistakes that occurred in your relationship or for your feelings?

7. Used verbal put downs or name calling with your partner or children?

8. Used violence in other relationship?

How to Participate in the IPW

Volunteer

You can volunteer for the IPW by calling 218-326-0388.  Volunteers are required to follow the same policies and rules as court-ordered 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

As a result of criminal charges, you may serve jail time, pay a fine, or be placed on probation.  You may also be mandated to go to treatment for chemical dependency and/or domestic violence.  Women who are convicted of domestic assault or related charges are typically court ordered to the IPW.

Schedule

Grand  Rapids 
Tuesday afternoons 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. - St. Joseph's Catholic Church