Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse
Domestic violence involves a series of attitudes and behaviors with the purpose of gaining power and control over a spouse, partner, girl/boyfriend or intimate family member. Abuse is a learned behavior; it is not caused by anger, mental problems, drugs or alcohol, or other common excuses.
There are many elements involved in domestic violence dynamics that need to be addressed. Working with victims of domestic violence requires creating a safety plan, addressing the trauma experience and eventually working on self-empowerment. Alejandra has vast experience working with victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse in individual and group contexts. She has also trained therapists in Mexico and Costa Rica considering all the cultural elements that characterizes the Hispanic culture.
Working with the victim is not enough. It is necessary to work with perpetrators of domestic violence. Alejandra is trained in the Battering Intervention and Prevention Program that specifically addresses the dynamics, difficulties and changes necessary in the perpetrator.