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Family and Child Abuse Prevention Center to Begin Batterers
Intervention Program
Special to The Truth
Family and Child Abuse Prevention Center in Toledo is
announcing the formation of the Batterers Intervention
Prevention Program in an effort committed to
addressing the problem of domestic violence where it starts;
with the batterer.
When the video emerged of NFL star Ray Rice delivering a
knock-out punch to his then girlfriend, the issue of
domestic violence was thrust into the cultural spotlight.
The ensuing debate unfortunately has focused more on what
the NFL should do about its players rather than how society
should address the pervasive issue of domestic violence.
The statistics are sobering and worth focusing on in
October, which is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
It is estimated that one in four women will be a victim of
domestic violence in her lifetime. On average, about four
domestic violence cases are filed each day in Lucas County
and each of these cases represent a fractured family or
relationship, police involvement, visits to emergency rooms
and hospitals and traumatized children.
Family and Child Abuse Prevention Center will offer a 26
week program which treats offenders referred from the
courts or various children serving agencies. The program is
specialized and utilizes all the guidelines established by
the Ohio Domestic Violence Network to hold batterers
accountable and prevent further abuse. Participants in the
group are challenged on their belief system that supports
abusive behavior. In the process they learn new skills on
how to handle conflict.
The program is co-facilitated by psychologist, Dr. Carol
Smith and Rod Lockwood, CT. Dr. Smith has facilitated
batterer treatment groups for 18 years and has presented
trainings at local, state and regional conferences regarding
many aspects of violence in society and the family.
For further information or questions with regard to this new
program, including making referrals please contact Dr. Carol
Smith at 419-292-2927 ext. 300 or email
csmith@fcapc.org
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