Second Step is an intervention program for men who are abusive in their intimate partner relationships. This can take many forms. Examples include:

• emotional abuse, physical abuse, threatening, intimidating, isolating, economic abuse, using male privilege, using the children, sexual abuse, devaluing and objectifying their partner

In Second Step classes, participants will learn:

• to face challenges without resorting to violence or abuse.
• the root of violence in relationships.
• impact and effects of abuse.
• new ways to live without abuse and violence.

Each member is treated with respect by the trained professionals who lead the group and is expected to treat fellow group members with respect.

How are the classes run?
The classes are run in an open group format for 20 week cycles. Curriculum includes:

• Non-Violence vs. Physical Abuse
• Trust and Support vs. Isolation
• Non-Threatening Behavior vs. Intimidation.
• Negotiation and Fairness vs. Coercion and Threats.
• Respect vs. Emotional Abuse
• Relationship Partnership vs. Using Children, Male Privilege and Economic Abuse.
• Sexual Respect vs. Sexual Violence.
• Honest and Accountability vs. Minimizing, Blaming and Denying.

What is the Referral Process?
Participants in the program are referred through various referral sources. These can be self-referral, Children and Youth, clergy, counselors/therapists, or through other social/private organizations.

An individual must contact the Family Service intake specialist to schedule a Second Step Assessment. The Assessment is a two hour process that is used to gather important information, make decisions about class participation and complete the necessary paperwork.

What are the Program Fees?

• Second Step Assessment: $75.00.
• Classes: $25 per class for 20 weeks.

We Believe . . .

• You can change.
• Violence is learned and can be unlearned
• Anger and violence are not the same thing. It's okay to feel angry. It's not okay to strike out.
• Violence is a choice we make.
• There is nothing and nobody that makes us be violent or abusive.
• You must take responsibility for your abuse and violence before it can be eliminated.
• Changing yourself takes the time and hard work and is impossible to do alone.