Serenity House counselors have long recognized the need to become more diverse in understanding both substance abuse and domestic violence issues, and through a unique opportunity provided by the Division of Alcohol and Substance Abuse (DASA) we are now able to address both. It has been acknowledged that substance abuse and domestic violence are two distinct but interrelated concerns which need to be addressed during treatment. In 2006, Serenity House partnered with Family Shelter Service to share the provision of services in their area of specialization to meet the needs of their respective clients. During the past sixteen months, Serenity House and Family Shelter Service have been working closely together to provide intervention, education, and counseling services to over 100 women from both agencies.

One young woman entered Serenity House for treatment of her alcoholism. As she worked toward her goals of establishing employment, continuing her education, and developing a strong recovery program, an abusive relationship prevented her from completing these goals. She participated in weekly group and individual sessions to learn more about the dynamics of relationships involving domestic violence. As she learned more about healthier relationships, she learned that her present relationship exhibited unhealthy characteristics. With the support of her peers and family she terminated that relationship. Due to the influence of both programs working in conjunction, this young woman has successfully completed treatment, established her own living arrangement, and has continued her education.

Violence against women is often a cycle of abuse that manifests itself in many forms throughout their lives. There is no one single factor to account for violence perpetrated against women, but abuse of alcohol and other drugs has been noted as a factor in both provoking violent male behavior towards women and children, as well as an increased vulnerability in women involved in domestic violence situations. Through the education, intervention, and counseling services offered through the Domestic Violence/Substance Abuse Intervention Program, women are able to maximize their safety and to reach out for support.