Supporting Clients Who Have Been Justice-Involved-View Presentation

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Video Summary

Dr. Debra Pinals led a webinar focusing on supporting individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) who are involved with the justice system. The discussion covered challenges faced by clinicians, such as lack of understanding of the criminal justice system, handling complex patient dynamics including personality styles and transference issues, and managing high demands with limited resources. Additional barriers include stigma, fear, and information sharing across systems.<br /><br />The webinar also explored criminal justice approaches to reduce recidivism, emphasizing the understanding of criminogenic risk factors like antisocial behaviors and substance misuse. Dr. Pinals highlighted cognitive behavioral strategies for correctional populations, noting these may not fully suit those with active symptoms of SMI without adaptations.<br /><br />Trauma, as a significant factor among justice-involved individuals, was discussed with strategies for trauma-informed care being part of the treatment approach. Dr. Pinals emphasized intentional coordination between treatment professionals and supervisory parole or probation officers, understanding each other's roles, and focusing on building resilience.<br /><br />The session encouraged clinicians to gain skills in trauma awareness and systems knowledge to better support their patients’ recovery goals, while recognizing the unique and rewarding nature of working with this population.

Keywords

serious mental illness

justice system

criminal justice

recidivism

cognitive behavioral strategies

trauma-informed care

treatment coordination

resilience building

systems knowledge