O'Brien Counseling Services

Phase I The first phase of treatment is to have the sex offenders accept responsibility for their offenses.  During the first phase, the sex offenders begin to penetrate their denial through the presentation of a Committing Offense Synopsis (COS) Worksheet.  This COS is an autobiographical sketch of the offense for which they received probation/parole.  During this phase, the sex offenders are required to explore their thinking errors, deviant sexual fantasies, as well as grooming and planning behaviors.

Phase II The second phase of treatment is designed to teach the sex offender about their offense cycle. During this phase, the sex offenders begin to personalize their offense behaviors by breaking down chains of events leading to, and identifying precursors of, their sexual offenses.  Once they begin to view their assaultive behaviors as having been planned and taking on certain characteristics, they can then learn to challenge and interrupt those patterns and control their behavior. 

Phase III The third phase of treatment is assisting the offender in the development of victim empathy.  O’Brien Counseling Services, Inc. believes that the development of empathy is crucial if offenders are to stop their assaultive behaviors in the future.  During this phase, which is considered to be experiential, the sex offenders complete several assignments geared toward understanding and respecting others, including their victims. They may participate during the group session in non-invasive role-plays, centering on their assaultive patterns and the outcome of their offenses on others.  

Phase IV The fourth phase of treatment is relapse prevention.  Although the prevention of relapse is a focus throughout treatment, here the sex offenders learn about specific precursors to their criminal behavior, as well as coping skills, avoidance and escape strategies, to avoid relapse. The goal here is to help them adjust to their daily routine while being less dependent on treatment. During this phase they will, at minimum, describe how to interrupt an offense, prepare a relapse prevention plan, and develop a maintenance manual.