Facilitated Dialogue

Facilitated Dialogue Program

Facilitated Dialogue brings together a victim or survivor of a violent crime and the individual responsible. It provides an opportunity for victims and survivors to share how the crime has impacted their lives and to ask questions they may have never had answered.

It also allows the individual who committed the offense to recount the crime in their own words, hear firsthand the impact of their actions, and take responsibility.

The Facilitated Dialogue Program is victim-initiated and victim-driven. The process can only begin when a victim contacts the Oregon Department of Corrections Victim Services Office.

All requests are carefully reviewed in collaboration with an advisory committee to determine whether a case is appropriate to move forward.

Participation is voluntary, and either party may stop the process at any time.

• The process is initiated and guided by the victim or survivor.
• Participation is voluntary for all parties.
• Participation does not impact an individual's sentence or privileges.
• An advisory committee provides oversight and guidance throughout the process.
• Dialogues are facilitated by trained professionals and supported by a DOC program coordinator.
• The process is confidential unless all participants agree otherwise in writing.
• Preparation includes careful screening, safety planning, and identifying support systems.
• Follow-up support and after-care resources are provided after the dialogue.

The Facilitated Dialogue process is thoughtful and carefully planned. Preparation can take months or even years to ensure the safety, readiness, and well-being of everyone involved.