Introduction to family Counseling

on midnight Central Time.

You are conducting an initial family counseling session with the Robertsons. The family includes Dan Robertson (the father), Marie Robertson (the mother), and Peter Robinson (the 10-year-old son). The family has been referred to you for counseling. Dan is an alcoholic as well as a drug addict. His substance abuse has contributed to many family problems. You notice in the session that the only person talking is Dan. You also notice that when you encourage Peter and Marie to speak, they look at Dan prior to responding. Dan often interrupts and speaks for them.

Answer the following questions in 3–4 paragraphs:
•Can you identify any possible signs of domestic violence from this initial session?
•What subjective and objective measures would you take to identify whether domestic violence is occurring?
•Describe the prevention methods that you would implement if domestic violence is not occurring, although you suspect that it could be.
•Describe the interventions that you would implement if you confirm that domestic violence is occurring.