|
Most individuals admitted in these programs are usually referred by the judicial system to participate and complete the program. After the initial referral, individuals are clinically evaluated for (1) substance abuse problems (2) domestic violence and chemical dependency problems (3) anger management or (4) given a psychosocial evaluation depending on the type of offense. The evaluations, depending on the type of evaluation requested, are composed of the arrest and court related history (TPO), history of abuse (childhood, prior relationships), the perpetrator's report of the incident, and two measurement instruments for abuse and chemical dependency. In addition, in cases of substance abuse an alcohol/drug history, arrest history, a mental status exam, family history of alcoholism, and two measurement instruments for chemical dependency are part of the evaluation.
The results of these evaluations are usually sent back to the courts or to the referral source. Upon completion of the evaluation process, the individuals (domestic violence only) receive an orientation session to prepare them for group work. Issues such as releases of information, firearms possession, stalking and other related issues, TPO's, alcohol/drug use, grounds for group termination, being late or absent, and other group rules are addressed in this session.
The Domestic Violence Counseling groups composed of men/women (gender specific groups) who have taken responsibility for their abuse and who have made a commitment to change their violent, controlling and abusive behaviors. The DVP consists of attending group sessions for two (2) hours on a weekly basis. The Georgia Commission on Family Violence recommends all domestic violence programs be at least twenty-four (24) weeks in length. The offender is responsible for completing the twenty-four week program. The program only allows for two (2) unexcused absences before the individual is referred back to the court system.
The Substance Abuse Counseling groups are composed of individuals (men and women) who have taken responsibility for their alcohol abuse and who have made a commitment to abstinence and recovery. The length and intensity of the group is determined by the results of the clinical evaluation and follow ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine) and DHR (Department of Human Resources) guidelines. Monthly reports are submitted to probation officers or referral sources to update them on attendance and progress while in group.
All programs, including the Anger Management and Youth Development Program, are highly structured and all individuals are expected to follow their treatment plans and adhere to their contract of services.
|
|
