1. Significant number of weeks in counseling (individual or group) * 3 - 6 months recommended *Plans for continued counseling following the dialogue session
2. Significant amount of time from last abusive incident * 3 - 6 months recommended, depending upon individual circumstances
3. Level of ability to cope with abuse * Degree of emotional stability (anger, sadness, etc.) * Realistic goals for dialogue *Appropriate and consistent coping skills
4. Level of ability to recognize cycle of violence *A degree of understanding of their abuser's tactics
5. Choice *Voluntary participation at every point during the program *Not an environment of being pressured or persuaded by others
6. Referred by counselor

Teen Survivors

Between the ages of 15 and 20 at the time of the dialogue.
Significant number of weeks in counseling (individual or group) * 3 - 6 months recommended *Plans for continued counseling following the dialogue session
1. Significant amount of time from last abusive incident * 3 - 6 months recommended, depending upon individual circumstances
2. Level of ability to cope with abuse * Degree of emotional stability (anger, sadness, etc.) * Realistic goals for dialogue *Appropriate and consistent coping skills
3. Level of ability to recognize cycle of violence *A degree of understanding of their abuser's tactics
4. Choice *Voluntary participation at every point during the program *Not an environment of being pressured or persuaded by others
5. Referred by counselor

Offenders

1. Significant number of weeks in counseling (individual or group) * 3 - 6 months recommended * Plans for continued counseling
2. Significant amount of time from last abusive incident * 3 - 6 months recommended, depending on individual circumstances
3. Level of ability to cope with questions about their past abuse * Degree of emotional stability (anger, sadness, etc.) * Realistic goals for dialogue
4. Level of ability to discuss cycle of violence * Complete admission and accountability for past abusive acts
5. Choice * Voluntary participation at every point during the program * Not an environment of being pressured or persuaded by others
6. Referred by counselor

Facilitators

1. Background working with survivors or offenders of domestic violence * Knowledge of domestic violence issues critical
2. Confidentiality and respect * Participants must be free to speak without fear of breach or judgment
3. Level of ability to cope with abuse *Witness to frank discussions of abusive acts
4. Listening *Degree of ability to listen and interject only as a last resort
5. Facilitator training * Must complete specific training for DVSD
6. Referred by participating organizations.