Introduction to Correctional Mental Health

1.5 Hours | 1.5 CEs

This on-demand professional training program on Introduction to Correctional Mental Health is presented by Virginia Barber Rioja, PhD, and Ashley Batastini, PhD.

The U.S. incarcerates far more people than any other country in the world. The incarcerated population is overrepresented by people of color, LGBTQ persons, and people with extensive mental health, substance use, and trauma-related needs. In addition, criminogenic needs must be addressed to reduce reoffending risk.

The US correctional system provides opportunities for mental health professionals to contribute their science as clinicians, researchers, and policy advocates. Adequate mental health interventions are essential to prevent suicide and violence, mitigate stress, and overall increase the chances of rehabilitation and recovery. However, the delivery of mental health services in correctional settings is challenging, and resources are often limited. Furthermore, even though mental health practice and research in correctional settings require specialized knowledge, correctional clinicians, administrators, and scholars have few resources to guide their practice.

This introductory program provides an overview of the US correctional system, ethical considerations for clinical practice, best practices in assessment and treatment, and the current state of correctional research.

This program would be appropriate for individuals wanting to work with incarcerated clients in jails or prisons, including Students, early career, or professionals who want more background in correctional mental health.