Our Services
ARC Programme offers 3 services mainly: The intervention programme, pastoral counselling, and workshops
The Programme
Cognitive transformation is required for long-term behavioural changes. The programme is essentially vested in the following core elements, namely, it is (a) grounded in the Christian faith; (b) it is trauma focused; (c) it has various psychoeducational components; (d) it has a cognitive behavioural component that emphasises emotion; and (e) it has a dialectical behavioural component that focuses on validation, acceptance and change. Dialectical behavioural therapy which was developed by the seminal work of Marsha Linehan is one of the strongest contenders in the domain of treatment for perpetrators of intimate partner violence.
Pastoral Counselling
Although we focus on a Christian perspective, the universal richness of religion and spiritual diversity is respected and recognised. Integrating faith in a remedial strategy for intimate partner violence affords a platform to detoxify shame and disconnection. It opens a gateway for validation, where clients are seen, heard, valued and empowered to heal in a space of trust, safety and without judgement. Faith can play an instrumental role in enhancing feelings of worthiness and self-compassion which is often a precursor to empathy and self-control.
Workshops
Workshops or training on intimate partner violence, commonly referred to as gender-based violence, is offered as part of a primary prevention strategy, to create an awareness of this problem and how to address it.
For instance, organisations or state enterprises such as police services and schools can benefit. Teenage dating violence is on the increase and often develops into full-blown partner abuse. Moreover, in South Africa, the new Domestic Violence Amendment Act, No.14 of 2021 deals more stringently with perpetrators of domestic violence in terms of mandatory arrests. However, stereotypes and pro-arrest policies could reduce police discretion when responding to violence between couples. Training, for example, for first responders such as the police is essential in efforts to eradicate abusive behaviour and to avoid possible revictimisation.
FAQ
Can anyone apply?
No. This intervention is a Christian-based programme for perpetrators of intimate partner violence. Biblical themes are referred to and prayer is an important aspect of the ARC Programme.
Is this programme for men only?
No. The Programme accommodates both men and women.
Can I attend as a victim?
Yes. Partner abuse is often bidirectional. Also, sometimes victims may want to support their partners.
Are there any pre-requisites to attend
Yes. It is compulsory to do an assessment with us for the in-person groups to evaluate your situation – to see if this is the right programme for you.
Can you issue a donation certificate for funding the ARC Programme?
We offer an opportunity for your investment that it will be recognised as your contribution toward social development in South Africa. The ARC Programme will issue you with an official thank you letter and certificate acknowledging your contribution to social development through your funding / donations.
ARC Programme is a (Pty) Ltd and not an NPC currently. We will be registering as an NPC within a year as a requirement for SARS – for ARC to issue a Section 18A certificate.
Is there a fee involved for an assessment?
Yes. R1200 (ZAR) for those attending the in-person closed group sessions.
Is a court report issued for court-referred clients?
Yes. The fee is R600.00 per emailed report.
What are the costs for the in-person closed group sessions?
R5000.00 per person. This includes eight sessions which are two and a half hours in duration, and a tea break where light refreshments are served. This group is held on a Saturday from 10:00AM – 12:30PM in Pretoria, South Africa.
Is pastoral counselling different from psychological counselling?
Yes. This platform does not intend to infer or make any diagnoses, nor is it a substitute for professional help from the healthcare professionals such as physicians, clinical psychologists or counselling psychologists, particularly for individuals who are struggling with physical or mental health issues.
