Research and Clinical Implications of Adapting Dialectical Behavior Therapy
for Justice-Involved Individuals

For many decades, the legal system subscribed to a primarily punishment-based model; however, efforts to effectively rehabilitate individuals who are incarcerated are driving international prison reform. 

The 1990s “positive psychology” movement fostered an interest in building on the strengths of incarcerated individuals and enlisting their motivation and commitment to positive change. Since then, research has consistently demonstrated that using cognitive-behavioral programs to target dynamic (changeable) risk factors for reoffending (e.g., problematic cognitions, peer affiliation, and personality traits) can reduce recidivism rates by up to 55%. In response, implementations of cognitive-behavioral programs in correctional and forensic psychiatric settings proliferated. 

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UPCOMING LIVE PROGRAMS

• Severe Mental Illness and Metabolic Dysfunction | March 21st | 3 Hours, 3 CEs: Individuals with serious mental health conditions typically experience metabolic dysfunction at higher rates than the general population. This program will explore possible causes and contributing factors for metabolic dysfunction in this population, along with their associated consequences. Implications for screening, interviewing, and intervention through an integrated behavioral health lens will be highlighted throughout this program.
  > Offered at 50% Off! Use Promo Code: SevereMI50
  

• Supervision of Forensic Psychological Evaluations | March 23rd | 4 Hours, 4 CEs: Presented in partnership with American Academy of Forensic Psychology (AAFP), this program highlights the need for a conceptual foundation on evidence-based models of supervision along with practical guidance to help supervisors build competency in this important area of practice. Special attention will also be given to meeting the ethical and legal requirements of supervision.
  

• Juvenile Sexual Offender Evaluation | March 24th | 4 Hours, 4 CEs: Presented in partnership with American Academy of Forensic Psychology (AAFP), this program will review the standard of practice for conducting a juvenile sexual offender risk assessment, taking into account cultural and gender differences as well as overall limitations when testifying in Court.
  The program will examine relevant risk assessment tools, their application and limitation, recidivism base rate, report writing, and cognitive biases impacting overall opinions.
  

Wishing you well, 

Patricia A. Zapf, PhD
VP, Continuing & Professional Studies
Palo Alto University
pzapf@paloaltou.edu
concept.PaloAltoU.edu

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