Our 26-week group session, using an Illinois Department of Human Services-approved curriculum, aims to empower participants to recognize and identify abusive behaviors, promote non-violent conflict resolution, foster assertive and non-aggressive communication, develop healthy and non-abusive parenting skills, and raise awareness about domestic violence.
Our Program Philosophy
We believe that abusive and controlling behavior is learned over time, and as such, it can be unlearned. At DrinkWater, we encourage clients to take responsibility for their choices, thoughts, and feelings, promoting accountability. We teach alternative skills in stress management and conflict resolution. Additionally, we address socialized gender/sex role stereotypes and family-of-origin experiences that influence the learning of abusive and controlling behavior. We offer assistance and support to our clients in identifying and taking responsibility for their emotional needs, promoting healthy communication within interpersonal relationships.
Is this Program for you?
- Do you intentionally frighten your partner or family?
- Do you fear or get angry thinking that your partner could leave you?
- Have you slapped, hit, or pushed your partner?
- Have you threatened your partner with violence?
- Have you been emotionally abusive to your partner?
- Have you broken items in your home or your partner’s home out of anger or as intimidation?
- Have you been arrested or charged with a domestic-related offense?
- Have you attempted to control your partner?
- Have you heard your partner complain that you are too bossy or jealous?
If you answered “yes” to any of the following questions, our program can help you!
The DrinkWater Partner Abuse Intervention Program is designed for adult individuals, both men and women, who have engaged in violent and abusive behavior with their adult intimate partners. Our program prioritizes the safety of victims and children, focusing on fostering accountability for abusive choices and working towards reducing and preventing ongoing domestic violence through education and raising awareness. Rest assured, our program has received approval from the Illinois Department of Human Services, ensuring its adherence to recognized standards.
Have questions?
Frequently asked questions
01 Who is this program for?
The DrinkWater PAIP is designed for individuals who are ready to make positive changes in their lives by addressing violent and controlling behavior choices. Our program provides a supportive community of honesty and accountability. Participation is a combination of voluntary and court-mandated.
02 Is this approved protocol?
The Partner Abuse Intervention Program is an Illinois State Protocol Approved Program. To learn more about the protocols and the process, please visit this link. Clients who are court-ordered (criminal court or DCFS) must attend a protocol-approved program.
03 Are you certified & trained?
PAIP Facilitators are certified and trained through Illinois Certified Partner Abuse Intervention Professionals as recommended by ICDVP.
04 Where is the program located?
Our program is located at 616 Bridgeport Terrace, Unit E-F, Lindenhurst, Illinois, 60046. Please note that all appointments must be scheduled and an intake assessment has to be completed first.
05 What is the program schedule?
Intake Assessments take place on Monday evenings at 6:30pm.
Weekly Groups are held on the following days:
- Mondays from 6:30pm – 8:30pm
- Tuesdays from 6:30pm – 8:30pm
- Saturdays from 10:00am – 12:00pm
06 What are the program expectations?
To participate in our program, clients are expected to complete the Intake Assessment (a fee of $25) and attend 26 weekly group sessions. The sliding fee is determined during the intake session. After completion, clients have the option to continue attending aftercare sessions free of charge, as long as they remain non-violent.
07 What is the Intake Assessment?
Each client receives a private two-hour intake session with a DWFS Partner Abuse Intervention Counselor. During this session, the details of the program, expectations, and requirements are explained. We discuss client rights and responsibilities, confidentiality, determine and agree upon the weekly fee, and conduct an in-depth interview. The interview covers topics such as history of abuse, family and marital history, work information, living situation, and substance use history.
