The S.A.F.E. Program
The S.A.F.E. program is a counseling/education program aimed at stopping the generational cycle of domestic violence. It is a group therapy program that serves domestic violence abusers who are either self referred or referred by the court system.
Why Do Men Come Into the S.A.F.E. Program?
We believe that working on an intimate relationship can only happen when both people are equal, open, and can freely share their thoughts, perceptions and feelings. If relationships have a chance to survive, abuse must stop. The program accepts referrals from a variety of sources including self-referral, mental health professionals, Social Services, the legal system, etc.
What Happens in the S.A.F.E. Program?
The 17-week group is a combination of education, therapy and support. The groups are co-facilitated by a male and female therapist. It is our goal that each man learns to identify all the controlling and abusive behaviors, while encouraging assertive/respectful approaches to handing his feelings, thoughts and conflicts.
We ask that he consider the impact of how each of the following abusive behaviors have affected his partner, his child(ren), and himself. Abusive behaviors such as: Physical abuse, emotional abuse, isolation, intimidation, threats, male privilege, economic abuse, sexual abuse, and using children. As the group progresses, the men also consider other important issues, such as feelings behind their anger, their dysfunctional beliefs and attitudes about women, their role as a man and partner and more. It is our goal that he stop all the abusive behaviors listed above, become a better listener, respect the differences of others, give more support and praise to others, learn to relax and be more patient, understand himself better and treat his partner as an equal.
We believe that each man has a capacity of changing his actions and reactions within his relationships. As a result, men will discover more satisfying relationships and be more comfortable with who they are. Taking responsibility for his actions is the first and biggest step towards change. What happens after that depends on his motivation level and commitment to working on his own problems.
This program is funded in part by the United Way of Marathon County.
The After Care Program:
The after care program and support group is designed for men who have either succesfully completed the S.A.F.E. Program, or individuals who simply want to learn better ways to cope with life, and to learn how to heal from past hurts and move forward.
Description of Services
Julie Gruenwald offers Individual, couples, and family therapy. Therapy services designed to help children and adults deal with a variety of issues affecting their lives. Issues such as anxiety, depression, life changes, behavior problems, trauma ADD/ADHD, sexual abuse, physical abuse, relationship difficulties, divorce adjustment problems. Julie Gruenwald specializes in play therapy with young children. We accept and submit claims to most private insurance plans and medical assistance for our services.
"You must be the change you wish to see in the world..." M.G.
