Adult Groups and Individual Programmes

Programmes are based on, but not limited to cognitive behavioural theory (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI) and strengths perspective. Programmes are primarily delivered from our premises located at 67-69 Riccarton Road Riccarton, Christchurch and Community House, Timaru. However SVS also provides programmes in Rangiora and Ashburton.

Group Programmes

Group programmes are a preferred method of programme delivery as they develop a culture where family violence is openly explored and not "kept behind closed doors". Group programmes are delivered in the evenings over a timeframe of 30 to 55 hours. This includes an assessment and between 10 and 17 three hour sessions depending on need. Clients are expected to attend all of the agreed sessions in order to complete the programme.

Group programmes are co-gender facilitated.

Individual Programmes

Some clients are unable to attend group programmes due to:

• Mental health
• Work commitments
• Language and literacy issues
• Intellectual disability
• Sexual orientation
• Alcohol and drug dependency

When factors are a barrier for clients to attend a group programme, SVS provides individual programmes and brief interventions which consist of an assessment and up to 12 one hour weekly sessions.

Individual and group programmes include:

• Core beliefs
• Conflict resolution and communication skills
• Developing healthy coping strategies by using time-out and safety planning
• The effects of violence on children
• Relapse prevention
• Developing support structures in order to maintain a non-violence life style
• Victim impact and empathy
• Understanding the historical context of family violence
• Alcohol and other drugs
• Mental health
• Power and control tactics
• Emotional regulation