The Healing Path

A Guide to Surviving Domestic Violence

The Healing Path Guide was created through a partnership of the Polk County Medical Society, Polk County Medical Society Alliance, Healthy Polk 2000 and the Polk County Board of Supervisors. Revised 2004.

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“The Healing Path: A Guide to Surviving Domestic Violence” (840K)

Cover (188K)

“The Healing Path,” broken up by sections:

Section 1

Introduction–You are not alone!
Terms use in this booklet
How do I know if I am abused?
Questions to ask yourself
Power and Control Wheel
Sexual abuse, marital rape and AIDS

Section 2

Could I be killed? Yes!
Why do men batter?
Why do I stay?
Crisis plan–To get out now
Safety notes
Action plan–To plan ahead
What to do if you are being stalked
Family Violence Center services

Section 3

What about counseling?
Equality Wheel
What about the children?
People with special needs
If the batterer uses alcohol or other drugs
If you are using alcohol or other drugs
If you are a woman of color
If you are an older woman
If you are physically disabled
If you are an immigrant
If you are lesbian or gay
Introduction to the Justice System
The Criminal Justice System

Section 4

Legal terms
When the police are called
If an arrest is made
If no arrest is made
When an assailant is charged
No-contact order
Simple misdemeanor charges
Indictable misdemeanor and felony charges
Crime Victim Rights Act

Section 5

Crime Victim Compensation Program
Personal Protection Orders
Divorce, custody, visitation
Summary of Iowa violence laws

Section 6

The Life Stages and Relationships Wheel
Resources available in Polk County
Iowa domestic abuse resources
In conclusion