Editor’s Note: A program attendee’s name has been omitted to protect their privacy.
To provide service members and their families another way to overcome domestic violence and child abuse, Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Community Services has been utilizing a powerful program for the past 12 years.
POWER Workshop is a MCCS Counseling Services program that involves open discussions with spouses who have fallen victim to domestic violence or have witnessed child abuse.
Attendees discuss how domestic abuse has impacted their home, said Amanda Hinkle, prevention and educational specialist, Counseling Services, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. Subjects such as anger management and effective communication are addressed, and special tips that could assist participants manage challenging situations effectively, are provided at the sessions.
The Uniform Code of Military Justice defines domestic violence as an offense that involves the use, attempted use, or threatened use of force or violence against a person of the opposite sex who is a former or current spouse.
“The POWER Workshop is offered as a way for our staff to provide in-depth education in areas of domestic violence and child abuse outside a command setting,” said Hinkle.
During the meeting, part-takers speak to one another about their specific issues and give helpful advice to each other. Attendees must come unaccompanied to ensure that individuals striving to end domestic violence, within their family, are not pressured or intimidated by their partner.
“(POWER Workshop) has helped my family by bringing us closer together, allowing us to get back on track,” said a recent participant of the workshop. “I’ve seen a big change in the way my family communicates and interact towards one another.”
Over the years, the curriculum has seen some updated material, but the core purpose is virtually the same, said Hinkle. POWER Workshop continues to be an effective and valuable part of the services offered by Counseling Services.
If you, or someone you know, has been a victim of domestic assault, there are many options to seek help. Counseling services are available in Bldg. 1122 or call (760) 725-9051 and Bldg. 520512 or call (760) 763-6940.