Vision International College & University Presents
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is there a need for more Domestic Violence Counselors?
A. In America, an individual is battered by his or her partner every 12 minutes of every day; 40% of all marriages will experience incidents of domestic violence, and 10% experience continuing violence.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. Are these courses applicable to any problems other than domestic violence and abuse?
A. The "Save Our Families" program was originally a discipleship program, and has resulted in the salvation of 100's, but, has been found to be effective in the abatement of family violence and abuse, chemical dependency and other addiction recovery (i.e., gambling, sexual, etc.), and family relationship restoration and building.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. Are the lessons Biblically based, or based on psychology?
A. All lessons are Biblically based and include generous amounts of Scriptural references; and, the lessons include sound, practical psychological principles where research demonstrates that the two fields, properly understood, are compatible.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. How long will it take me to complete each course?
A. This varies, depending on how much time you have to devote to study. We have had students complete a course in weeks while others take as long as three of four months.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. Do I need to purchase course texts or other reference materials?
A. No. The lessons and referenced net links provide all the information that you will need to successfully complete the course.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. Can I obtain the lessons in hard-copy or audiocassette format to supplement the online studies?
A. Each course will soon be available in book form and on audiocassette -- watch for the announcement.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. Does my Domestic Violence Specialist Certificate qualify me to work in the field?
A. Completion of the Domestic Violence Specialist I Certificate Program will qualify you to serve as a facilitator intern in most domestic violence abatement programs; completion of the D.V. Specialist II program will qualify you to serve as a co-facilitator in most programs; and, completion of the D.V. Specialist III program, together with the completion of an appropriate internship program, will qualify you to serve as a facilitator in most domestic violence abatement programs.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. What is required to complete an internship for domestic violence facilitator?
A. This varies from State to State. In California, one must co-facilitate at least one group per week for one year, or two groups per week for six months under a certified domestic violence counselor.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. Why is this domestic violence abatement program more successful than other D.V. program curricula?
A. Most other D.V. programs focus solely on behavior modification using intensive, confrontational intervention. The "Save Our Families" program begins with behavior modification, but also incorporates deep insight and reality techniques that facilitate personhood healing and relationship restoration. The program uses an educational format vs. confrontation, thereby respecting the dignity of the counselee.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. How successful is the program in stopping domestic violence and abuse?
A. In nearly 15 years of use, program graduates have demonstrated a recidivism rate of less than 10% in the first year following treatment; more than 90% stop using all mood-altering substances -- although this is not the program focus; a significant number of graduates complete long-delayed educational and/or career goals; and, a high percentage of relationships are healed -- with couples reuniting and re-marrying, even after years of separation and/or divorce. All this is evidence of deep healing and restoration.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. Does completion of the full D.V. Specialist program insure that I can open a private D.V. counseling practice?
A. No. Each political subdivision (County or State) has its own specific program certification requirements that must be met. Author and instructor, Dr. James V. Potter, provides assistance in the preparation of program certification documents. For additional information, see: www.jubileeenterprises.com/consulting
 
 Back to Top
    
Q. Does this program result in long-term, meaningful change or merely a temporary 'quick-fix'?
A. In their clinical practice, Dr. and Mrs. Potter administered pre and post-treatment testing using standardized self-assessment inventory tools. Based on this testing, the Potters ascertained that more than 85% of those referred to D.V. counseling had substance abuse problems and/or personality disorders, while 90% of program graduates evidenced no chemical dependency or personality disorder.
 
 Back to Top
  
Q. What if the program stirs up unresolved issues in my own life -- does this mean that I am unqualified to counsel in this field?
A. Nearly every student will find that there are certain unresolved issues in their lives. When you become aware of an unresolved issue in your life, take time to work the program exercises. Remember, that resolving your own issues is a prerequisite to effective counseling since -- we cannot lead another person down a path that we, ourselves, have not successfully traveled.
 
 Back to Top
  

For answers to additional concerns not covered here, address your questions to jpotter@vision.edu

©2004 Vision International College & University.  All rights reserved.