Review
"Reading this book is like taking an intensive course on addressing domestic violence; a great deal of substance is compacted into a relatively small volume. The authors do an outstanding job of taking a reader without firsthand experience of abuse into the mind, body, and spirit of the abused, as well as that of the abuser. The feature that makes this book a stand-out is the comprehensive ready-to-use resource section. This book qualifies as a must-read for every pastoral, counseling, social work, or education student." --The Christian Librarian, 2008
About the Author
Brenda Branson and Paula J. Silva together founded FOCUS Ministries, Inc., a not-for-profit organization that offers help and hope to women who are struggling in dysfunctional relationships, especially those involving domestic violence. Branson is director of FOCUS Women's Center in Madisonville, KY and Silva is director of FOCUS Women's Center in Wood Dale, IL. Both are active members of the American Association of Christian Counselors, and they regularly lead training events, conferences, and workshops on the topic of family violence.
Branson has published over 800 articles and resources on domestic violence, including one she co-authored with Silva in Christian Counseling Today Magazine in 2005.
Silva holds an M.A. in Guidance and Counseling, and serves on the Inter Faith Advisory Committee for Chicago Mayor Daley's Office of Domestic Violence.