Following definitions of battering and factors contributing to it, the characteristics of men who batter are considered. The treatment goal of eliminating all battering behavior is discussed, and specific treatment objectives are presented. A three-phase assessment process then is outlined. Phase 1 involves gathering initial information for crisis intervention, and considers intake, motivation to change, child abuse and neglect, incest, and lethality. Phase 2, designed to provide information for treatment, requires consideration of alcohol/drug abuse, psychosis, victim needs, intellectual and neurological assessment, and use of standardized tests. Phase 3 requires ongoing assessment throughout treatment. The importance of clear and consistent goals, client accountability, use of confrontation, psychoeducational approaches, the counselor's role, and groups in treatment of this population is examined. A model counseling program illustrates the foregoing treatment considerations. The programs uses a social learning approach in a residential setting and focuses on stopping battering and developing alternative means for coping with stress. Therapeutic, agency, and staff issues also are discussed. Appendixes include an annotated reference/resource list, practice principles for helping battered women/victims of spouse abuse, and a group information sheet which delineates group goals, guidelines, and procedures.