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Instructions
This week, you will create a brochure that addresses IPV and therapy. Your audience includes professionals that work with relationships from any human services approach.

Think of this brochure as having at least five parts:

1.    Define IPV (including the cycle of violence).

2.    Discuss safety (e.g., safety contracts and how people are experiencing IPV and link to resources in their area).

3.    Reflect on Ethics and ethical challenges that therapists might experience when working with IPV cases.

4.    Discuss the pros and cons of working with both partners together in therapy when there is a history of IPV.

5.    Provide some key ways that therapy could address IPV.

Length: About 2 -3 pages (depending on how you format the brochure)

References: Include a minimum of 4 scholarly resources.

The completed assignment should address all of the assignment requirements, exhibit evidence of concept knowledge, and demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the content presented in the course. The writing should integrate scholarly resources, reflect academic expectations and current APA standards, and adhere to Northcentral University’s Academic Integrity Policy.

When applicable, conduct a Turnitin pre-check and then upload your completed assignment and click the Submit to Dropbox button.

Hurless, N. N., & Cottone, R.R. (2018). Considerations of conjoint couples therapy in cases of intimate partner violence. The Family Journal, 26(3):324-329.
This article explores the challenges and benefits of conjoint therapy for couples when IPV has been part of the relationship.

Rouleau, E., Barabe, T., & Blow, A. (2019). Creating structure in a time of intense stress: Treating intimate partner violence. Journal of Couple & Relationship Therapy, 18(2), 148–169.
This article highlights the use of EFT with couples and discusses some of the background for conjoint therapy with couples experiencing IPV.

Bates, E. A. (2020). “No one would ever believe me”: An exploration of the impact of intimate partner violence victimization on men. Psychology of Men & Masculinities, 21(4), 497–507.
Explores the voices of male victims of IPV.

Maharaj, N. (2017). Perspectives on treating couples impacted by intimate partner violence. Journal of Family Violence, 32(4), 431–437.
This article lays out the debate between conjoint therapy and individual therapy when seeing couples experiencing IPV.

Messing, J. T. (2019). Risk-informed intervention: Using Intimate Partner Violence Risk Assessment within an evidence-based practice framework. Social Work, 64(2), 103–112.
This article considers the safety of those seeking therapy when there is a history of IPV.

Define IPV

Creating an informative and engaging brochure involves clear sections and concise information. Here’s a structure for your brochure on Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) and therapy:


[Brochure Title: Addressing Intimate Partner Violence in Therapy]


1. Understanding Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)

Definition of IPV:

  • Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) refers to physical, sexual, or psychological harm by a current or former partner or spouse.
  • IPV can occur among heterosexual or same-sex couples and does not require sexual intimacy.

Cycle of Violence:

  • Tension Building: Stress and strain increase, leading to a potential conflict.
  • Incident: The abusive partner releases tension through violent or aggressive behaviors.
  • Reconciliation: The abuser apologizes, promises change, or denies the violence occurred.
  • Calm: A period of peace and apparent harmony before the cycle repeats.

2. Safety Considerations

Safety Contracts:

  • A safety contract is an agreement between the therapist and the client, outlining steps to ensure the client’s safety.
  • These contracts may include emergency contacts, safe places to go, and steps to take in case of immediate danger.

Resources:

  • National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
  • Local Shelters and Support Services
  • Legal Assistance for Protection Orders

3. Ethical Challenges in Therapy

Ethical Dilemmas:

  • Confidentiality vs. Safety: Balancing client confidentiality with the need to report imminent danger.
  • Dual Relationships: Avoiding conflicts of interest and maintaining professional boundaries.
  • Bias and Prejudice: Being aware of personal biases that may affect the therapeutic relationship and interventions.

4. Therapy for Couples with a History of IPV

Pros and Cons of Conjoint Therapy:

Pros:

  • Improved Communication: Therapy can provide a safe space to develop healthier communication patterns.
  • Mutual Understanding: Partners may gain insight into each other’s perspectives and behaviors.
  • Structured Environment: A therapist can mediate discussions, ensuring they remain productive and non-violent.

Cons:

  • Re-Traumatization: The victim may feel re-traumatized by discussing their experiences in the presence of the abuser.
  • Power Imbalance: The abusive partner may dominate the session, undermining the therapeutic process.
  • Safety Risks: There is a risk of escalation in violence after sessions.

5. Therapeutic Approaches to Address IPV

Individual Therapy:

  • Focuses on empowering the victim, building self-esteem, and developing coping strategies.

Couple’s Therapy:

  • Should be approached with caution. Structured models like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) can be effective if both partners are committed to change and safety is ensured.

Group Therapy:

  • Provides support from peers who have had similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and shared healing.

Evidence-Based Practices:

  • Risk-informed interventions use IPV risk assessments to tailor therapy to the individual’s needs and ensure safety.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps in addressing thought patterns and behaviors associated with IPV.

References:

  1. Hurless, N. N., & Cottone, R.R. (2018). Considerations of conjoint couples therapy in cases of intimate partner violence. The Family Journal, 26(3): 324-329.
  2. Rouleau, E., Barabe, T., & Blow, A. (2019). Creating structure in a time of intense stress: Treating intimate partner violence. Journal of Couple & Relationship Therapy, 18(2), 148–169.
  3. Bates, E. A. (2020). “No one would ever believe me”: An exploration of the impact of intimate partner violence victimization on men. Psychology of Men & Masculinities, 21(4), 497–507.
  4. Maharaj, N. (2017). Perspectives on treating couples impacted by intimate partner violence. Journal of Family Violence, 32(4), 431–437.
  5. Messing, J. T. (2019). Risk-informed intervention: Using Intimate Partner Violence Risk Assessment within an evidence-based practice framework. Social Work, 64(2), 103–112.

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