Address the complex intersection of substance use and abusive behavior with a comprehensive, dual-track program. Led by a specialist certified in both addiction and domestic violence, you will use two evidence-based workbooks to achieve abstinence and learn the skills needed for safe, healthy relationships.
Understanding the Goal The Domestic Violence & Addiction Counselling (DVO-AC) program addresses the complex intersection of substance use and abusive behavior. The primary goal is twofold: to assist you in achieving and maintaining abstinence while learning the tools necessary to regulate your emotions in a healthy, safe, and appropriate manner.
By combining addiction recovery with domestic violence intervention, you will learn comprehensive coping strategies, such as stress management and handling triggers, while simultaneously building specific skills to stop abusive behaviors. Key focus areas include “Changing How You Think,” developing empathy, and learning immediate safety tools like “Time Outs” to prevent physical violence, threats, and impulsive reactions.
Professional Guidance (CDVS-I & CCAC) This specialized program is led by a counsellor who is dually certified as a Certified Domestic Violence Specialist-I and a Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor. To ensure both issues are treated effectively, you will be guided through two separate evidence-based workbooks: one dedicated to addiction recovery and the other to domestic violence accountability.
Frequency & Duration of Treatment Because this program addresses two distinct but related issues, the structure is robust.
Structure: A minimum of 12 sessions is required (duration may increase depending on the complexity of your specific situation).
Materials: Two specialized workbooks (Addiction & Domestic Violence).
Focus: Sessions alternate and combine strategies to treat both issues simultaneously.
Program Completion Upon successful completion of the program, a Certificate of Completion will be issued along with a descriptive letter confirming your participation and progress.
Change starts with being honest with yourself. We help you identify the ‘dysfunctional thought patterns’ and justifications that keep you stuck, empowering you to accept responsibility for your actions without shame.
Recovery happens between sessions. We use evidence-based Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) principles to give you concrete tasks, like ‘Time Outs’ and empathy exercises, to practice in your daily life.
Whether it’s substance use or impulsive reactions, we work to interrupt the cycle. You will learn to spot the early warning signs of emotional loss of control and choose a safer, healthier response.
Addiction and conflict damage relationships. We focus on empathy development and consistent, safe behavior to help you repair the past and build a future where you and your loved ones feel secure.
