COURSE GDV

Guiding Domestic Violence Victims: Safety Concerns and Considerations

This course reviews considerations regarding the use of technology when offering intervention and support to victims of domestic violence.

The primary goal of this course is about learning strategies that will keep victims safe as they are guided out of their abusive relationships and into a brighter future.

Proper client screening for online services is addressed. Technology typically utilized by stalkers is discussed and considerations about online interventions are offered.

Included in the course is a Workbook for Women Ending Abusive Relationships as well as a Group Leader Guide. The workbook can be used in-person or online as a self-help tool or with a coach or therapist. The Group Leader Guide includes step-by-step, session-by-session guidance and instruction for leading a group of domestic violence victims who have left their abuser and are embarking on a journey of personal growth.

This course is designed for anyone who is assisting victims of domestic violence and is suitable for mental health, human resource and EAP Professionals, advocates, coaches and paraprofessionals; and includes:

Technology tips for providers of services
Informed Consent regarding technology concerns
Screening the client for online intervention
Client Workbook
Group Leader Guide

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to inform victims of domestic violence about privacy and protection from digital stalking.
Participants will be able to properly screen victims to determine technological safety and online intervention.
Participants will learn strategies for guiding a domestic violence victim along their journey out of an abusive relationship.

Note: Please be sure to download the Welcome Letter when you register as it contains the link for your class, so you can begin as soon as you are ready.

Course Prerequisites

None

Register for this course

Testimonials

The resources provided (sample client workbook, peer-reviewed studies, supporting documentation, etc.) were very informative and beneficial. I found that being required to read and analyze the accompanying materials was extremely helpful in grasping the importance of careful attention to methods, procedures, and client safety.

- J.B.

This course really emphasized the importance of exercising great care and attention to the safety of clients who may be experiencing abuse of any kind in their relationships. I am aware now that I need to communicate with them carefully and clearly in order to make sure that I do not contribute to the cycle of abuse, enable the abuse to continue, put them at risk in our communication, or coach beyond my scope of expertise.

- S.J.

What I found most valuable in this course was the way the stages of leaving an abusive relationship were explained. This gave me clarity and a deeper understanding of where a person may be on their journey, and how best to support them at each stage. The algorithm provided a helpful visual map that made the process easier to grasp. Another key learning was the exploration of technology-related risks to victims. While I had considered these before, the course highlighted just how significantly technology can be weaponised by someone with harmful intentions. This expanded my awareness and will help me remain alert to these risks when offering support. Overall, I found the course very practical and highly applicable to real-life situations. It also connects directly to my role as an ADHD coach, as many clients may face vulnerabilities or challenges in relationships. Understanding the stages of leaving, recognising risks, and being equipped with practical tools allows me to offer more informed, empathetic, and safe support when coaching clients who may be navigating these circumstances.

- V.S.