Most individuals admitted in these programs are usually referred by the judicial system to participate and complete our programs. However, we also accept self-referrals. After the initial referral, individuals are clinically evaluated for (1) substance abuse problems (2) anger and/or violence or(3)submitted to a psychosocial, psychological or psychiatric evaluation depending on the type of referral. The evaluations, depending on the type of evaluation requested, are composed of a mental status exam, an alcohol/drug history, medical and mental health history, work and education history, family history of substance abuse and two measurement instruments to test for chemical dependency are part of the evaluation. In some instances, an alcohol/drug urinalysis is also a part of the initial substance abuse 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 participants (domestic violence) receive a group 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 absentiism, and other group rules are addressed in group orientation.

The Family Violence Intervention Program is delivered in a group modality. Groups are 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/or abusive behaviors. The FVIP consists of participating in group sessions for one and a half (1.5) hours on a weekly basis. The Georgia Commission on Family Violence mandates all domestic violence programs be at least twenty-four (24) weeks in length and be completed withing a twenty-seven (27) week period. The offender is responsible for completing the twenty-four (24) week program during the allowed time frame. The program only allows for three (3) absences before the individual is referred back to the court system.

The Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment groups are composed of individuals (men and women) who have taken responsibility for their alcohol and/or drug 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 referral sources to update them on the participant's attendance and progress while in group.

All of our programs are highly structured and all participants are expected to follow their individualized treatment plans and adhere to their contract of services.