Psychiatric Services in Correctional Facilities: A Critical Guide for Mental Health Professionals

In the 15 years since the publication of the second edition of the American Psychiatric Association’s task force report on psychiatric services in correctional facilities, the rates of incarceration of mentally ill individuals have continued to rise. This has led to the criminalization of substance use disorders and a lack of accessible and appropriate care in the community.

The new edition, Psychiatric Services in Correctional Facilities, aims to provide leadership in addressing the needs of the often disenfranchised population of the incarcerated and guidance to mental health clinicians working in correctional settings. The work group that authored this report has presented the foundational principles that apply to providing care in correctional facilities, outlining the basic types of services that should be provided, and applying the principles and guidelines previously established to specific disorders, patient populations, treatment modalities, and special needs.

Working with patients in correctional facilities presents particular challenges that clinicians are unlikely to have encountered elsewhere in practice, such as the use of seclusion and restraint and administrative issues. Psychiatric Services in Correctional Facilities provides critical guidance and support for mental health professionals operating in this often frustrating environment, enabling them to provide both effective treatment and informed advocacy for their patients.

About the Book

This 153-page paperback, published by Amer Psychiatric Pub on June 2, 2015, provides essential guidance for mental health professionals working with the incarcerated population. With an ISBN-10 of 9780890424643 and ISBN-13 of 978-0890424643, this book is a valuable resource for those seeking to provide quality care in correctional facilities.

By addressing the unique challenges of working in correctional facilities, Psychiatric Services in Correctional Facilities enables mental health professionals to provide compassionate and effective care to this often marginalized population. This critical guide is essential reading for anyone working in or seeking to work in correctional mental health.