Dv

Dv

Screening Domestic Violence seeking couple counseling and treatment techniques
1. Interview to gather presenting issues: Developing rapport, building therapeutic alliance.
2. Stir away from question that implies Domestic Violence.
3. Emphasize confidentiality and limits of it.
4. Meet with the couple when others are present in the office.
5. Explore questions such as: Is there evidence of affection and reciprocity? Is there marital satisfaction? In what area? Do you feel safe in your relationship? Is there share commitment for both couple? Is there mutual level of empathy and insight of the relationship? Is the balance and control acceptable for both couple?
6. Remain non-judgmental and supportive.
7. Use your gut feelings.
8. If suspectful for Domestic violence interview separately. This would increase the likelihood of disclosure, and create a safe environment to gain perspective and probe for domestic violence issues.
9. If there had been a single incident of lethality rule out couples work.
10. When screening patients, the cultural, ethnic and religious background of the patient needs to be acknowledged, including insuring the confidentiality of the interpreters. Patient behaviors such as smiling, minimizing danger, stoicism, and lack of trust in health care staff can easily be misinterpreted.
11. Use power and control wheel to assess areas and severity of abuse.
Interview Process
During an individual session uncover the violence between couple. Gather facts and data such as frequency, severity of abuse, and physical consequences.
1. If he or she discloses violent behavior, explore the motivation behind the change.
2. Use the scale system, 1 to 10, to gauge commitment to relationship.
3. Is he or she willing to take responsibility for change?
4. If he or she discloses being victim of abuse: validate his or her feelings (hurt, fear, shame).
5. Advice the victim no therapy would guarantee safety or protection.
6. Present yourself with...