ABOUT US
The mission of the Domestic Violence Intervention Academy (DVIA) is to save lives by breaking the cycle of abuse through education, accountability, and healing. We provide evidence-based intervention classes, trauma-informed support, and restorative guidance for individuals who have caused harm, while empowering survivors and strengthening families.
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The Domestic Violence Intervention Academy (DVIA), approved by the North Carolina Domestic Violence Offender Management Committee, is dedicated to breaking the cycle of abuse by working directly with domestic violence offenders. Our state-approved 26-week Domestic Violence Intervention Program (DVIP) promotes accountability, respect, and nonviolent behavior in relationships.
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We offer services to men and women in Guilford County, NC, and our certified facilitators follow state standards for group treatment, documentation, and ethical practice. DVIA also provides preventive education through Teen Relationship Workshops and separate Survivor Support Services under a different department.
At its core, DVIA believes that prevention is possible, change is real, and every life is worth protecting. Our 26-week Domestic Violence Intervention Academy is designed to provide court-mandated defendants with re-education on the dynamics of domestic violence. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of their behavior and learn healthier, more respectful ways of interacting with intimate partners and family members.
PROGRAM LEADERSHIP & STAFF
DVIA is operated and managed under Portia Shipman Enterprises, LLC, led by humanitarian, advocate, and community leader Dr. Portia LaJoy Shipman.
The program is staffed by two dedicated professionals:
Torri Johnson is responsible for program coordination, curriculum delivery, group facilitation, client progress monitoring, and DVIP compliance. Torri brings professional experience in behavioral education, community wellness, and trauma‑informed support.
Stacie King leads the victim support component (operated separately from offender services as required by DVIP guidelines). Stacie provides survivor safety planning, referrals, trauma support, and ensures full compliance with victim confidentiality protocols.
