Finding Accountability and Change Through the SA Batterers Intervention Program

For one participant, that we’ll call Mary for confidentiality purposes, involvement in The Salvation Army Batterers Intervention Program (SABIP) began after a life-altering moment. Following intense arguments with an ex-partner that escalated into physical violence, she was arrested on a misdemeanor battery charge and placed on probation. As part of the court’s requirements, attendance in SABIP became mandatory—a condition initially viewed as an obligation rather than an opportunity.

What unfolded over the course of the program, however, was a profound shift in perspective. Rather than one single lesson, Mary describes the entire experience as eye-opening. “Accountability was an impactful theme of the program,” she said. Entering the program, Mary believed her actions were justified by being triggered or antagonized. Through honest reflection, guided by three counselors who challenged denial and encouraged self-awareness, Mary came to a difficult realization: “I was responsible for my choices. Walking away had always been an option.”

Many clients come into the SABIP program with blinders on, purposely avoiding identifying with their unhealthy and toxic relationship traits,” said Cle Wilkerson, SABIB program manager and instructor. “After several BIP classes of learning the Power and Control wheel, they begin to recognize that their past actions are consistent with the pie chart. Once clients show some accountability for their past abusive behaviors, we then have a point of reference to build and grow from.”

The group setting, once met with skepticism, became a powerful source of growth for Mary. Hearing others’ stories and viewpoints encouraged deeper self-reflection. She likened the counselors to a “village,” helping rekindle a sense of light and hope that felt dim at the beginning of the journey. By the end, that light felt brighter than ever before.

Practically, the program offered tools for managing anger and conflict. Instead of reacting aggressively, Mary learned to pause, assess situations, and communicate feelings calmly. Listening—rather than over-speaking—became essential, along with recognizing that everyone’s emotions matter and deserve respectful expression.

SABIP also challenged long-held beliefs about power, control, and relationships. Mary recognized how much power she had unknowingly given to others and made a conscious decision to reclaim it. What was once mistaken for love was identified as manipulation and control. In relationships, she learned to stop expecting others to give what they themselves offered and to recognize red flags early rather than forcing connections that were unhealthy.

These personal changes reflect the broader mission of The Salvation Army Batterers Intervention Program. For more than three decades, the program has worked to reduce intimate partner violence by focusing on accountability, education, and behavioral change. According to longtime SABIB facilitator Levi Washington, the goal is not to excuse abusive behavior but to confront it directly.

“This program is an intervention for people who have battered their partners,” Washington said. “We teach men and women how to have healthy relationships without using power, control, or any form of domestic violence.”

SABIP is one of the longest-standing programs of its kind in the city and one of the few that continues to offer in-person sessions post-pandemic, including both men and women. Participants typically enter the 29-week program through court or Department of Children and Families referrals and follow the Duluth Model, an evidence-based approach addressing power, control, respect, and nonviolence.

The program’s impact is measurable. A Duval County domestic violence fatality report showed an 83 percent success rate, with participants not reoffending within three years. For Washington, accountability is the cornerstone of that success.

“Change happens by choice or by force,” he said. “We give them the opportunity to choose change.”

For Mary, that choice has led to greater self-awareness, stronger boundaries, and a commitment to peace. While growth is ongoing, she now understands that not every action requires a reaction—and that sometimes, walking away is the most powerful response of all.