In-Custody Treatment Begins the Change Process Before Release
GEO Reentry Services offers correctional agencies in-custody treatment programs for individuals nearing the end of their jail or prison sentences. Starting treatment before they are released back into the community facilitates consistency in treatment and helps individuals be better prepared for their transition to the community. By assessing an individual’s risk and needs and initiating programming while in prison, the transition to a community-based program is seamless and behavior change is expedited.
The Challenge
When individuals enter the criminal justice system, each person comes with their own unique set of traits, risks and needs. They also fall into different categories of the prison population: women, those with mental health or addiction issues, parents, the elderly, and much more. Most do not receive tailored training and treatment while incarcerated, which is a lost opportunity and increases the likelihood of failure upon release.
Our Approach
Correctional agencies that employ our in-custody treatment services carefully select candidates for the program, and GEO Reentry staff perform a risk/needs assessment to make sure treatment plans are responsive to the individual. Throughout the program, individuals work closely with their case manager, who holds them accountable and helps identify and address negative behavior patterns. Services include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Treatment (CBT). Within institutions, our staff deliver treatment designed to address criminal thinking. CBT is offered through group and individual counseling, and participants learn strategies for prosocial interaction and de-escalation strategies, employment readiness, life skills training, and anger management.
- Motivational Interviewing. Our staff are trained in this cognitive behavioral communication style that promotes positive reinforcement, using open-ended questions and reflective listening.
- Self-Directed Journaling. Individuals not permitted to attend group sessions due to security, classification, and/or movement concerns can work with staff and utilize The Challenge Journal series.
- Substance Use Treatment. The Cognitive Behavioral Interventions for Substance Abuse (CBISA) program promotes life balance, and provides interventions in personal development, employment, family and peer relations, anger management, and motivation for change.
- Life Skills. Programming for participants within 60 to 90 days of expected release.
- GED Preparation. Staff operate a Mobile Computer Lab to assist individuals with GED prep.
- Release Plans. Developed prior to expected release, individuals and their case manager define realistic and achievable goals for community success.
- Programming for Female Prison Populations. GEO Reentry offers a gender-responsive and trauma-informed treatment program specifically for women.
- Confinement in Response to Violation. GEO Reentry operates a program specifically for technical violators. This short-term, in-custody program delivers cognitive behavioral and substance use treatment, life skills, and more.
Outcomes with In-Custody Treatment Programs
Correctional agencies that partner with GEO Reentry are reaching the individuals under their supervision at a crucial time. By offering specific populations evidence-based reentry treatment and training while they are still incarcerated, individuals have the chance to address antisocial thinking patterns and behaviors before they are released into the community. And, these programs seamlessly bridge to community treatment and training upon release.