Dealing with Domestic Violence in Couples Counseling Assess Domestic Violence Interview as Couple and Separately Conflict Tactics Scale Assess Current Risk of Lethal/Injurious Violence History and Nature of Violence (e.g., verbal, physical, weapons used?) Fear of Recurrence Recent Threats of Violence Has violence occurred only or mostly when alcoholic is/was drinking?

Dealing with Domestic Violence If Risk of Lethal/Injurious Violence is High: Provide Separate Treatment for Alcoholic and Spouse Make a Safety Plan If Risk of Lethal/Injurious Violence is NOT High: Treat with Caution and Address Violence

Dealing with Domestic Violence Address Violence in Couples Counseling: Commitment to nonviolence (“No angry touching.” “No threats.”) Review at each session successes and challenges to keeping nonviolence commitment “Time Out” to reduce escalating conflict Communication Skills Training Written agreement for at least temporary separation if violence occurs Address risk of violence if relapse occurs