SATOP's Weekend Intervention Program (WIP) is a program level designed for repeat Missouri DWI / DUI offenders or "high risk" first-time Missouri DWI / DUI offenders. The WIP uses intensive education and counseling intervention methods over a marathon weekend of structured activities. The program is conducted in a restrictive environment.
The Weekend Intervention Program (WIP)
The Weekend Intervention Program is an intervention and education program conducted in 48 consecutive hours in a restrictive environment generally over one weekend. This program is designed primarily for second-time DWI offenders or those identified during the screening process as being at risk for abusing substances. WIP activities include assessment, a medical need screen, group education, individual sessions, and other intervention and confrontational activities designed to make the offender assess his/her personal responsibility in the area of impaired driving.This program uses a course curriculum approved by the Missouri Department of Mental Health, Division of Alcohol and Drug Abuse. A WIP fee of $400 paid by the offender covers the cost of this service. These costs can be partially offset for certain individuals who meet financial requirements through the Department's Standard Means Test. Programs must contract through the Department for reimbursement of these services.
The WIP is designed primarily to heighten the offender's awareness of the negative consequences of alcohol/drug usage in their lives. Although some counseling techniques are used during the program, methods to reduce or eliminate the offenders' anxiety related to DUI/DWI behavior are generally not appropriate at this level. WIP is designed to assist the offender to "feel the heat" and motivate them to make change in their lives. Hopefully, many WIP participants will be referred for additional services (counseling and/or self-help programs) after the WIP program.