Acknowledgment of Terms and Conditions

By participating in the Communication Connects program, the participant acknowledges and understands that this program is not appropriate for situations involving domestic violence. The program is not a form of therapy nor a substitute for mental health treatment with a licensed psychotherapist. The participant accepts that this program is intended solely for educational purposes in improving communication skills and is not equipped to handle the complexities and safety concerns associated with abusive relationships. By engaging in this program, the participant agrees to these terms and waives any liability against the program facilitators for any consequences arising from the misuse of the program in contexts for which it was not designed.

Abusive Relationship Disclaimer

This communication training program is not appropriate for individuals currently in an abusive relationship. It is crucial to recognize the signs of an abusive relationship and understand that it is not safe to attempt to work on such a relationship through this program or any form of couples therapy.

Signs of an Abusive Relationship and Domestic Violence

1. Physical Abuse

  • Hitting, slapping, shoving, grabbing, pinching, biting, hair-pulling, etc.

2. Emotional Abuse

  • Undermining an individual’s sense of self-worth, constant criticism, diminishing one’s abilities, name-calling, or damaging one’s relationship with their children.

3. Psychological Abuse

  • Causing fear by intimidation, threatening physical harm to self, partner, children, or partner’s family or friends, destruction of pets and property, and forcing isolation from family, friends, school, or work.

4. Sexual Abuse

  • Coercing or attempting to coerce any sexual contact or behavior without consent.

5. Financial Abuse

  • Controlling or restricting access to money, preventing one from working or attending school, and controlling financial decisions.

6. Stalking

  • Repeated, unwanted attention and contact that causes fear or concern for one’s safety or the safety of someone close to the victim.

If you recognize these signs in your relationship, it is imperative that you do not attempt to work on the relationship through this or any couples therapy program. Your safety and well-being are the highest priority.

For Help

Please contact thehotline.org to connect with a trained professional who can help you and provide access to appropriate local services. You can also reach them by calling 1-800-799-7233 or texting “START” to 88788.

Your safety matters. Reach out to professionals who can offer the support and resources you need.

It’s important to know that this Communication Connects program is not intended to diagnose or treat any known mental health condition. This program is not a substitute for psychotherapy or any other form of professional mental health treatment. If you have any concerns about your mental health, it is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of a licensed mental health professional.

Program Intent

The intention of this program is to provide instruction on the principles of healthy communication. It serves as a basic overview of these principles with the goal of promoting self-awareness, teaching new ideas, and modeling new skills.

It’s also vital to know that your participation in this training is entirely voluntary, and no specific outcomes are guaranteed. By engaging in this training or participating in the exercises, you agree to hold the facilitator harmless for any liability or negative outcomes that may result from your participation. Users are entirely responsible for the outcomes of their participation.