Archived Webinars


Title: Jails and Justice Support Center: A Vital Resource for the Nation's Jails
Date: Wednesday, September 18, 2024 | 2:00 PM ET
Description: The Jails and Justice Support Center (JJSC) assists jails in creating and sustaining safe, humane, and effective environments for their populations, including incarcerated individuals, staff, and visitors. The JJSC engages directly with jurisdictions in the delivery of training and technical assistance on the identified core topics. In addition to providing technical assistance and resources for jails, the JJSC also serves as a hub for other federally funded programs and resources. This session will include leaders from the National Institute of Corrections and the JJSC to discuss the current and future services available through the JJSC; facilitate discussion on core topic areas; and allow participants to share their perspectives on core challenges jails face today.

 

View the recording of this webinar - Coming Soon
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Title
: Therapeutic Communities: Reviewing the Theory Behind the TC Model
Date: Wednesday, July 24, 2024 | 2:00 PM ET
Description: Join us for a webinar reviewing the theoretical basis for the therapeutic community (TC) model. This webinar will review BJA’s RSAT program definitions for the therapeutic community and how the Promising Practices Guidelines for RSAT Programs adds to this definition. The webinar will explore the theoretical underpinnings of the TC and establish the four perspectives used in TCs. Participants will look at some of the more practical theory, including “acting as if” and the role of staff as “rational authority”. Geoff Henderson, MS will participate in a moderated discussion speaking about his years of experience with the therapeutic community model across different settings. This webinar is appropriate for all levels of familiarity with the TC model, whether you have never worked within one before or are an experienced practitioner looking to review.
Learning Objectives: After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:

  • List the four perspectives of the modified therapeutic community.
  • Identify three differences that make a therapeutic community “modified”.
  • Practice “acting as if” in regular interactions with community members.
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Title
: Rehabilitative Technologies in Corrections: Problem, Solution and Roadmap

Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2024 | 2:00 PM ET
Description: This webinar explores the introduction and integration of advanced telecommunications in correctional facilities. It focuses on strategies for successfully introducing and integrating tech solutions into the correctional facilities’ existing ecosystem of infrastructure, policies, and rehabilitative programs. Participants will learn about the necessities, benefits and challenges of implementing new and rehabilitative technologies, best practices for change management, and first-hand research on the impact of rehabilitative technologies, such as no-cost video conferencing and on recidivism. Using a series of case studies, the session will provide insights into overcoming challenges in correctional settings and the positive impact of digital tools on reducing recidivism and enhancing post-release outcomes.
 

Upon concluding this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Address challenges posed by evolving technology such as staff burden, security risks, and cost.
  • Navigate evidence-based technology for improved outcomes in education and recidivism.
  • Identify and improve on other technology limitations such as Wi-Fi networks, hardware demands, and digital literacy.
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Title: 
Recognizing and Treating Alcohol Use Disorder in Correctional Settings

Date: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 | 2:00 PM ET
DescriptionAccording to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), alcohol-related problems—which result from drinking too much, too fast, or too often—are among “the most significant public health issues in the United States.” Join us for a webinar focusing on correctional alcohol use disorder (AUD) treatment. This webinar will present updated research and resources that RSAT programs can utilize to provide evidence-based treatment for individuals with alcohol use disorder. We will also hear from Donna Magee, program director for the TRAILS Program at Sullivan County Department of Corrections in New Hampshire, who will share her experience treating AUD as a part of the substance use and mental health treatment in the RSAT program.

Upon concluding this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify 5 common indicators of an alcohol use disorder (AUD) diagnosis.
  • Understand the impact and prevalence of AUD in the corrections population.
  • Describe three resources or tools that programs can leverage to enhance their treatment protocols for individuals with AUD.
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Title
: Treatment of Individuals with Serious Mental Illness and Co-Occurring SUD Using Long-Acting Injectable Medications

Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2024 | 2:00 PM ET
Description: Join us for a webinar looking the intersection of mental health treatment and substance use disorders (SUD). In this webinar, staff and administration from Hampden County Sheriff’s Office will offer insights into their in-house, multi-tiered mental health services, including how their program has grown to meet community needs and their current utilization statistics. The program will discuss Hampden County’s long-acting injectable (LAI) medications formulary, associated costs, funding sources, and the unique challenges and advantages they present. RSAT programs will learn how the use of LAIs as an integrated treatment can help clients with co-occurring disorders succeed in substance use disorder treatment.
 

Upon concluding this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand how mental health treatment and substance use disorder treatment can be integrated to improve quality of care and outcomes.
  • Identify 3 advantages and 3 challenges associated with the use of long acting injectables in correctional facilities.
  • Explain the importance of continuing and aftercare while providing co-occurring disorder treatment.
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Title: Ethics and Professional Boundaries: Working with Individuals in the Justice System

Date: Wednesday, February 21, 2024 | 2:00 PM ET
Description: Ethical issues related to professional boundaries are among the most problematic and challenging. Although some issues may seem more clear-cut in correctional settings, others may fall into the “gray area” depending on one’s position within the justice system. This training will provide an awareness and understanding of professional boundaries – what they are and why they are important. It will introduce participants to the concept of the Power Differential and how it impacts the relationships between all RSAT Program staff and participants. It will review various boundary violation scenarios that highlight realistic situations and will provide information to develop action planning for prevention, potential boundary dilemmas, and ethical misconduct.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:

  • Define the concept of “power differential”.
  • Identify three types of boundaries and describe their relevance when working with people within the criminal justice system.
  • List three warning signs that boundaries may be at risk of being compromised.
  • Develop an action plan if boundaries are in danger of becoming unprofessional, boundaries have been compromised, and to help prevent boundary violations.
View the recording of this webinar
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Title
: New Guidelines for Managing Substance Withdrawal in Jails
Date: Wednesday, January 17, 2024 | 2:00 PM ET
Description: RSAT programs are well aware that substance use is a major health issue among individuals in custody. For individuals with substance use disorders, withdrawal from substances can be life-threatening. Jurisdictions have a pressing responsibility to save lives by implementing policies and protocol that align with legal, regulatory, and clinical standards related to appropriate withdrawal management. Recently released Guidelines for Managing Substance Withdrawal in Jails sets forth best clinical practices and actionable guidance for jails. This presentation will introduce this new resource, discuss readiness for implementation, and key components of implementation in local communities and jails.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Provide an overview of key components of the substance withdrawal guidelines.
  • Describe the decision process related to the care of an individual at risk of withdrawal in jail.
  • Discuss implementation strategies and resources to support jails and communities.
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Title
: Getting in the Weeds of Reentry Needs: How Community Partners Improve Reentry Outcomes
Presenters: Erin Allain, M.S., Access to Recovery (ATR), Advocates for Human Potential, Inc.
Date
: Wednesday, December 13, 2023 | 2:00 PM ET
Description: Collaboration between prisons, jails, and community providers is essential at every stage of the incarceration process, from initial custody to preparing for reentry and post-release. Establishing partnerships helps ensure a safe and supportive environment, avoids service duplication, facilitates access to essential resources, and ultimately plays a crucial role in preventing recidivism, benefiting both individuals and the broader community. Service providers based in the communities where formerly incarcerated people return know best how to access local resources and the challenges associated with service delivery. This webinar will provide a deeper view into how and why community partners provide critical reentry supports. Using real-world examples from the Access to Recovery program in Massachusetts, we'll explore how community partners work with formerly incarcerated people with substance use disorders to provide wraparound supports for reentry and recovery. RSAT providers will be encouraged to consider the unique reentry support needs in your community and begin to draft a plan for addressing those needs through intentional community partnerships with local service providers.

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Date
: Wednesday, November 15, 2023 | 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Sheriff Peter Koutoujian, Middlesex County Sheriff's Office; Autumn Boylan, California Department of Healthcare Services
Title of Presentation: Medicaid Reentry Section 1115 - Implications and Opportunities for Jails and Prisons
Description: Join us for a webinar on Medicaid Reentry Section 1115, a demonstration opportunity that expands Medicaid benefits coverage for individuals during the 90-day period before their release from incarceration. This discussion brings together experts to shed light on the implications for jails and prisons when waivers are being planned and once approved in their state. The presenters will discuss proactively preparing and adapting to these changes, how jails and prisons can get involved with the 1115 application process, and opportunities to strengthen reentry services and access to care post release. Hear firsthand accounts from California where implementation of their demonstration proposal is beginning and from a Massachusetts sheriff on his important role in the state’s application, offering practical examples of best practices and lessons learned.
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Date: Wednesday, October 25, 2023 | 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Kweilin Waller - Senior Program Manager II, Advocates for Human Potential, Inc.; Dr. Luis S. Garcia - Senior Program Manager, Advocates for Human Potential, Inc.
Title of Presentation: Workforce Development Planning for Successful Reintegration in RSAT Programs
DescriptionFor persons who are currently incarcerated, the bridge to a successful societal reintegration is built upon solid workforce development planning and preparation long before their release. RSAT programs are instrumental in this foundational work. This webinar will offer strategies, resources, and insights for the supports and services needed for those returning to the community from incarceration. We will bring these elements to life through a poignant personal story of reintegration, shedding light on one individual's journey and triumph against the odds, where initial setbacks were surmounted by determination and tenacity. Through this narrative, we emphasize both the critical need for thoughtful reentry planning that includes a comprehensive career pathway plan that goes beyond simply getting a job, important wrap-around supports, and connections to social capital.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List at least two promising practices to prioritize and tailor employment services specifically for persons who are currently incarcerated, ensuring they receive the specialized assistance they require for their return to the community.
  • Identify the need to develop strategies to significantly improve the workforce outcomes for persons who are currently incarcerated, maximizing their potential for successful employment.
  • Develop a plan to master the provision of comprehensive assistance, from skills training to job matching, that justice-involved individuals need to secure employment in the current job market.
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Date
: Wednesday, July 26, 2023 | 2:00-3:00pm EST
Presenter: Roberta C. Churchill, LMHC - Senior Justice Associate, Advocates for Human Potential, Inc.
Title of Presentation: Promising Practices Guidelines for Residential Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Description: The Promising Practices Guidelines (PPGs) were first published in November 2017 based upon research in the field of substance use disorder treatment and correctional programming. In 2019, the Bureau of Justice Assistance launched a national program to assess Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) program adherence to these guidelines. These Fidelity Assessments are currently underway to determine the strengths as well as the training and technical assistance needs of RSAT programs and grantees.

The PPGs for RSAT was meant to be a dynamic document that would be revised as more outcomes and feedback from jails, prisons, and aftercare programs were obtained. In June 2023, a revised manual was published to assist correctional administrators and practitioners to establish and maintain RSAT programs aligned with existing research and related standards developed for substance use and  co-occurring disorder programming and services. This webinar will review the recent revision of the PPGs for RSAT that are the foundation of outcome-based and effective programming and important for all RSAT administrators, managers, and staff to know.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List the eight Promising Practices for RSAT programs and become familiar with principal subcomponents.
  • Identify those areas within the RSAT program(s) you manage / oversee that are not in alignment with the PPGs for RSAT.
  • Develop a plan for those areas within the RSAT program(s) that need support, training, and/or other assistance to improve alignment with the PPGs for RSAT.
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Date:
 Wednesday, June 28, 2023
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Lisa Lundrigan, Director of Process Improvement/Senior Criminal Justice Associate, Advocates for Human Potential; Sam Kossow, Research Associate, Advocates for Human Potential
Title of Presentation: Ensuring Program Excellence: Strategies for Fidelity in RSAT Programs
Description: This webinar on maintaining fidelity in RSAT programs will delve into strategies for program staff and management to ensure their programs uphold evidence-based standards effectively, utilizing the Promising Practices Guidelines and other tools. During this webinar, we will explore various fidelity measures that play a pivotal role in program success. Topics will include fidelity to technique for motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy, documentation and outcome tracking, the significance of supervision, and the importance of regular and continuous training. The webinar will also describe the Fidelity Assessment Initiative (FAI) process for RSAT programs.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Explain the concept of fidelity in the context of RSAT programs and its importance in maintaining outcomes.
  • Identify three common challenges to maintaining fidelity and proactive approaches to overcome them.
  • Understand how to utilize the Promising Practices Guidelines as a tool for maintaining fidelity.
View the recording of this webinar
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Date:
 Wednesday, May 24, 2023
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Dr. Andrew Klein, Senior Scientist, Advocates for Human Potential; Cedric Love, Research Associate, Advocates for Human Potential
Title of Presentation: The Evidence for Correctional Medication Assisted Treatment
Description: This webinar will summarize current research on the three FDA approved medications for opioid use disorder specifically for justice-involved individuals. It will summarize the research on the effectiveness of the medications as well as the differences among them. Effectiveness will be broken down in regard to recidivism, recovery, retention in treatment, and well-being. The webinar will also present the findings on the impact of when MAT is begun, during or after incarcerations, and with or without concurrent psychosocial treatment. The research will also be described on the diversion of medication in jails and prisons.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe four of the major benefits found for MAT for OUD
  • Analyze at least one benefit and challenge presented by each of the 3 FDA-approved opioid medications
  • Describe the impact of beginning MAT during versus after incarceration for OUD
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Date:
 Wednesday, April 19, 2023
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Shawn MacMaster, Asst. Superintendent, Middlesex County (MA) Sheriff's Office
Title of Presentation: Supporting Families During Incarceration – A New Model and Its Successes
Description: The impacts of jail extend far beyond the people who are incarcerated, having direct consequences for families. From general stress and anxiety, to lost income and support, to concerns about reunification and recidivism, countless families confront the associated burdens of incarceration each year in the United States.

As many jails have a decentralized system for handling family contact -- where family members may be referred to any number of individuals depending on the issue -- correctional responses can vary across employees and by department. This approach may add additional stress on family members, causing confusion, amplifying concerns, and resulting in secondary trauma.

This webinar puts forth a blueprint for how to establish a robust, multipronged family services program, where interactions with families are streamlined through a dedicated unit of civilian and sworn staff. Presenters will explore the development of the “Middlesex Model” through three stages: research/development, planning/preparation, and implementation/evaluation. In doing so, participants will learn how to better respond to the unique needs of families.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Differentiate between the routine and episodic needs of family members
  • Identify the challenges and constraints of establishing a streamlined approach to family contact and recommend concrete action steps to overcome them
  • Discuss the various features of a robust family services approach
View the recording of this webinar
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Date:
 Wednesday, March 15, 2023
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Dr. Andrew Klein, Advocates for Human Potential; Assistant US Attorney Michael Campion, New Jersey District; Curtis Harris, Trial Attorney, DOJ Civil Rights Division
Title of Presentation: Access to MOUD in Jails and Prisons (Part 2) - Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments
Description: On January 14, 2021, the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey announced the results of an investigation of the Cumberland County Jail. The investigation looked at potential violations of the Eighth and 14th Amendments of the Constitution due to failure to screen for or provide adequate treatment to individuals at risk of self-harm and suicide.

This webinar will look at the findings of this investigation, specifically in reference to withdrawal management and medications for opioid use disorder. Two of the attorneys representing the government in this investigation, the Assistant US Attorney from the District of New Jersey and Trial Attorney from the DOJ Civil Rights Division will present on this case and recent developments in Eighth Amendment legal action. This is part 2 of a webinar series looking at access to medication assisted treatment in jails and prisons. View Access to MOUD in Jails and Prisons (Part 1).

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the connection between unmanaged withdrawal and suicide, especially in jail settings
  • Identify at least two ways the Eighth Amendment protects the rights of individuals with opioid use disorder
  • Learn what civil rights violations can be reported under the Eighth and 14th Amendments
View the recording of this webinar
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Date:
 Wednesday, February 22, 2023
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Roberta Churchill, M.A., LMHC
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues and Professional Boundaries: Working with Individuals in the Justice System
Description: Ethical issues related to professional boundaries are among the most problematic and challenging. Although some issues may seem more clear-cut in correctional settings, others may fall into the “gray area” depending on one’s position within the justice system. This training will provide an awareness and understanding of professional boundaries – what they are and why they are important. It will introduce participants to the concept of the Power Differential and how it impacts the relationships between all RSAT Program staff and participants. It will review various boundary violation scenarios that highlight realistic situations and will provide information to develop action planning for prevention, potential boundary dilemmas, and ethical misconduct.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define the concept of “power differential”
  • Identify three types of boundaries and describe their relevance when working with people within the criminal justice system
  • List three warning signs that boundaries may be at risk of being compromised
  • Develop an action plan if boundaries are in danger of becoming unprofessional or boundaries have been compromised
View the recording of this webinar
Download the PowerPoint for this webinar


Date: Wednesday, January 18, 2023
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Robyn Feese, LCADC, CPC, Substance Abuse Program Director, Nevada Department of Corrections
Title of Presentation: Co-Occurring Treatment Services: Contingency Management
Description: Contingency Management is an evidence-based treatment for individuals with substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health disorders. Though traditionally used in outpatient settings, it has been successfully adapted to correctional treatment and RSAT programs. Staff from the Nevada Department of Corrections will share how they have implemented Contingency Management into their RSAT programs, what treatment outcomes they have seen, and challenges with implementation.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define behavioral contingency management
  • Identify three principles of motivational incentives
  • Name five examples of target behaviors and reinforcers
View the recording of this webinar
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Date: Wednesday, December 21, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Thomas Schoolcraft, Minnesota DOC; Lieutenant Christopher Sormanti, Hampshire County (MA) Sheriff's Office; Officer Ashley Evans, Maine DOC
Title of Presentation: The Role of Correctional Officers in RSAT Programs
Description: Correctional officers play a key role in the administration and operations of RSAT programming. However, they are often times are not made aware of the essential role they play in establishing the therapeutic milieu for successful treatment programming in prisons and jails. This requires them to adopt different roles than the average correctional officer in working with general prison and jail populations. This webinar will present a panel discussion with three experienced correctional officers working with RSAT programs. They will discuss their role and how it differs from other corrections jobs, how they work with treatment staff, advice they have for increasing officer involvement, and other important topics.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the role of a correctional officer within an RSAT Program
  • Describe how cross-training between correctional and treatment staff can improve program outcomes
  • List three benefits of correctional officer involvement in RSAT programming
View the recording of this webinar
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Date: Wednesday, November 16, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Roberta Churchill, Advocates for Human Potential & RSAT-TTA; Franklin County (MA) Sheriff's Office; and Sanpete County (UT) Sheriff's Office
Title of Presentation: Co-Occurring Treatment Services: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
Description: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based practice based on cognitive behavioral practices. This webinar will provide an introduction for RSAT staff to DBT and its use with clients with substance use disorder in correctional settings. Licensed Mental Health Counselor Roberta Churchill will provide a brief history and use of DBT. Clinical staff from Franklin County Jail in Massachusetts and Sanpete County Jail in Utah will present on their experience implementing DBT in correctional settings and in RSAT programs.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Name the four DBT skills modules that are included in DBT Skills Training
  • Describe emotion dysregulation and its consequences
  • Develop a plan of DBT training for program staff and join or form a DBT Consultation Team
View the recording of this webinar
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Date: Wednesday, October 26, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Andrew Klein, PhD, Senior Scientist, AHP; Bruce Herdman, PhD, Chief of Medical Operations, Philadelphia Department of Prisons
Title of Presentation: The Impact of Substance Use Disorder in Jail and Prison Suicide Prevention
Description: This webinar will explore the overlaps in substance use disorder and suicide in correctional settings. It will look at recent trends in suicide deaths in both jails and prisons and how they may be tied to substance use disorder. Dr. Andrew Klein will present case studies of suicide prevention efforts in both jails and prisons through substance use disorder treatment. The impacts of access to medication for opioid use disorder and withdrawal protocols will also be considered. Dr. Bruce W. Herdman will join the webinar to speak about suicide prevention at the Philadelphia Department of Prisons.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify two differences between suicides in jails versus prisons
  • Understand the two major differences between SUD and suicide in the general population versus jails and prisons
  • Identify three suicide prevention measures for use in jails and prisons
View the recording of this webinar
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Date: Wednesday, September 28, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Sheila McCarthy, CCI; Spencer Geiger, CCI; Kimberly Green, Albany County Sheriff's Office
Title of Presentation: The Importance of Building Partnerships between Jails and Treatment Courts
Description: Previously, RSAT funding could only target individuals sentenced long enough to complete 90-day programs in jails and six-month programs in state prisons or juvenile correctional facilities. New funding will allow for short-term programs for individuals awaiting trial who need substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. RSAT pretrial services allow programs the exciting opportunity to offer individuals awaiting trial the chance to initiate treatment, access life-saving medications for opioid and alcohol use disorders and begin appropriate psychiatric medications for co-occurring mental health disorders. This expansion in funding creates a unique opportunity for RSAT programs to leverage local treatment courts and create relationships that can easily facilitate referrals. The Center for Court Innovation, along with a Certified Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) from Albany County Corrections & Rehabilitative Services Center, will facilitate this one-hour training on how to build and enhance collaboration between jails, local treatment courts, and community providers to best treat individuals who have SUDs. By building collaborative partnerships, individuals will have access to treatment and continuity of care through the criminal justice system while securing treatment alternatives to prevent further incarceration.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Participants will learn the basics of what treatment courts are and how jail staff can be a part of the team
  • Understand the importance of how jails can ensure access to treatment and continuity of care
  • Learn ways that jails can partner with treatment courts to screen and refer potential participants with substance use disorder
View the recording of this webinar
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Date:
 Wednesday, August 17, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Roberta Churchill, M.A., LMHC; Abby Neer, Clinician, MonDay Community Correctional Center,
Title of Presentation: Implementing Motivational Interviewing into RSAT Programs
Description: Motivational Interviewing (MI) is an evidence-based practice that fosters change by using person-centered communication. This webinar will provide both an introduction for RSAT staff new to the practice of MI and as a refresher for those already familiar with the technique. Motivational Interviewing trainer Roberta Churchill will provide a brief overview of the Spirit of MI specifically for the correctional setting. Treatment staff and correctional officers from the MonDay Community Correctional Institution RSAT program will share information about their program’s MI implementation strategy, community of practice, and immersion training with security staff.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define in their own words the four elements underlying the Spirit of Motivational Interviewing
  • Identify at least two situations in which MI is particularly useful
  • Develop options for ongoing staff training and practice of MI
View the recording of this webinar
Download the PowerPoint for this webinar


Date:
 Wednesday, July 20, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Dr. Andrew Klein, Assistant US Attorney Amy Romero & Assistant US Attorney Greg Dorchak
Title of Presentation: Access to MOUD in Jails and Prisons (Part 1) - ADA and Legal Considerations
Description: On April 5, 2022, the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division issued a guidance document on how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects people with opioid use disorder (OUD) who are in treatment or recovery, including those who take medication to treat their OUD. This webinar will look at recent legal agreements and cases involving access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) in prisons and jails. Assistant US Attorneys from the Districts of Rhode Island and Massachusetts will present on recent cases and agreements with jails and prisons that did not provide access to MOUD to people incarcerated in their facilities. Part 2 of this webinar will air in September 2022 with a focus on practical implementation of MOUD services in prisons and jails.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand potential legal consequences for denying access to MOUD to individuals who are detained or incarcerated
  • Identify the three FDA approved medications for opioid use disorder
  • Learn how to report potential civil rights violations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
View the recording of this webinar
Download the PowerPoint for this webinar



Date: Wednesday, June 15, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Sheila McCarthy, Spencer Geiger, Fabina Benites & Debbie Boar
Title of Presentation: Reentry Best Practices and Community Collaboration
Description: The Center for Court Innovation will facilitate a panel discussion on how various factors significantly affect successful reentry, tips to overcome barriers, how existing community-based organizations tailor interventions to address those factors and provide recommendations for best practices reentry to follow. Participants will hear from the Deputy Director of the Staten Island Justice Center’s Reentry program and learn how they have built their program, including collaborative efforts in the community as well as overcoming challenges along the way. Participants will also hear from Center staff with a longstanding history overseeing reentry programs on how to implement best practices as well as the importance of measuring the impact of your program and services. There will be opportunity to answer questions from the field and share resources.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the best practices that should be implemented to achieve successful reentry programs
  • Understand the importance and key pieces of pre-release planning for the best transition during reentry
  • Recognize the value and importance of building relationships and forming connections with community providers
View the recording of this webinar
Download the PowerPoint for this webinar
Additional Resources:


Date: Wednesday, April 27, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Lynn Miller & Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Embedding Evidenced-Based Peer Specialist Services From the Inside Out
Description: Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS) offer an evidenced based practice through an innovative approach to address substance use and mental health disorders inside correctional settings and upon community reentry. PRSS’ are recognized as paraprofessionals through a certifying body that follows ethical guidelines and standards of practice. Those involved in the reentry process have helped lower recidivism risk by helping others increase engagement and participation with treatment and court obligations. Individuals involved with PRSS/ self-report reductions in substance use behaviors, including opioid use. Peer support has also shown success helping people reentering the community continue medication-assisted treatment after being inducted on medication for OUD while incarcerated or detained. PRSS’ are a core element of a recovery-oriented system of care built upon a mutually supportive community of peers who support each other by promoting fidelity to peer recovery ethics, values and principles. The PA Department of Corrections has a standout peer program embedded throughout all state prisons which serves to reduce trauma of incarcerations, supplement existing recovery services, provide evidenced based practices to address substance use and co-occurring disorders, and improve reintegration opportunities including support for continued MAT and other treatment. Their model includes establishing a sustainable approach designed to create a community culture transformation through modelling, demonstrating evidence of overcoming behavioral challenges, and empowering all involved to effectuate pro-social change.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe at least three benefits of including peer recovery support specialists in the treatment of individuals with opioid use disorder.
  • List at least three advantages of embedding peer recovery support specialists within correctional settings.
  • Apply information, or contact resources for assistance, provided during webinar in establishing a peer support model within your workplace.
View the recording of this webinar
Download the PowerPoint for this webinar


Date: Wednesday, March 23, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Jac Charlier, Pat Tucker, Siobhan Morse & Benjamin Campbell
Title of Presentation:“A Change is Gonna Come”: The New Diversity Equity and Inclusion Manual for Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) for State Prisoners Program
Description: In June 2021, President Biden penned the Executive Order on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility in the Federal Workforce, building upon the Executive Order he signed on his first day in office. In this updated Executive Order, President Biden directs the federal government, in all its parts, to, “define standards of success for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility efforts based on leading policies and practices in the public and private sectors; [and]…identify strategies to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, and eliminate, where applicable, barriers to equity…” With that in mind, this webinar will describe the forthcoming RSAT DEI manual. We will discuss why this manual is being composed now, the purpose of the manual, and how RSAT programs can benefit from implementing its contents.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define “equity,” “diversity,” and “inclusion”
  • Understand what is included in the RSAT DEI manual
  • State the need for DEI guidance for RSAT programs
  • Understand the benefits that come from implementing DEI initiatives in RSAT programs
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Date: Wednesday, February 23, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues and Professional Boundaries: Working with People in the Criminal Justice System
Description: Ethical issues related to professional boundaries are among the most problematic and challenging. Although some issues may seem more clear-cut in correctional settings, others may fall into the “gray area” depending on one’s position within the justice system. This training will provide an awareness and understanding of professional boundaries – what they are and why they are important. It will introduce participants to the concept of the Power Differential and how it impacts the relationships between all RSAT Program staff and participants. It will review various boundary violation scenarios that highlight realistic situations and will provide information to develop action planning for prevention, potential boundary dilemmas, and ethical misconduct.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define the concept of “power differential”.
  • Identify three types of boundaries and describe their relevance when working with people within the criminal justice system
  • List at least three warning signs that boundaries may be at risk of being compromised.
  • Develop an action plan if boundaries are in danger of becoming unprofessional, boundaries have been compromised, and to help prevent boundary violations
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Date: Wednesday, February 2, 2022
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: New Harm Reduction Resources and Policies: What is on the Horizon?
Description: This webinar will explore the ramifications of the recent significant shift in harm reduction policies that impacts nearly every human service system, especially the justice system. It will outline the scope of harm reduction strategies SAMHSA intends to fund and support, current harm reduction resources that may benefit reentering RSAT participants, and the programs that are likely to become available soon. The interactive portions of the webinar will engage participants in conversations about sensitive issues, and when and if promoting harm reduction sends conflicting messages to clients. It will also address how RSAT program staff can identify and prioritize the elements of harm reduction that align with needs, risks, and goals of reentering individuals in recovery.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Access information on the current harm reduction strategies SAMHSA supports.
  • Identify at least 3 types of harm reduction resources that are relevant to pre-release planning for RSAT participants.
  • Reflect on topics you feel comfortable including in the psychoeducational aspects of RSAT programming and name one or more you’d prefer to exclude.
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Date: Wednesday, September 29, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Dave Lucas & AJ Garcia, Center for Court Innovation
Title of Presentation:  Bridging the Gap: A Practitioner's Guide to Harm Reduction in Drug Courts
Description: Drug court practitioners and harm reductionists have a shared interest in improving public health and community safety. These two fields are also likely to co-exist and confront similar challenges for years to come. As such, this presentation represents a new and necessary conversation— one that will help to bridge the gap between the two contrasting paradigms. The training will provide an overview of what harm reduction is— its origins, evolution, and guiding principles— and highlight the benefits and challenges of integrating harm reduction in the drug court space. Concrete examples will be used to demonstrate how the principles and practices of harm reduction can support the key components of drug courts by providing:
  • additional life-saving responses amid intersecting public health crises;
  • effective engagement strategies for marginalized groups;
  • deeper and more trusting therapeutic relationships;
  • improved treatment retention and long-term outcomes;
  • improved equity and inclusion;
  • the expertise of people with varied lived experience; and
  • adaptability in the face of drug policy reform.
After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the principles of harm reduction
  • Identify opportunities to incorporate harm reduction into their daily practice
  • Recognize relational and programmatic strategies to improve their drug court practice
View the recording of this webinar
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Date:
 Wednesday, September 15, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Alejandra Garcia & Monica Christofferson, Center for Court Innovation
Title of Presentation: Decision Points in Addressing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Treatment Courts
Description: This presentation will provide an overview of racial and ethnic disparities in drug treatment courts. Presenters will outlines decision points to address racial and ethnic disparities using NADCP’s Adult Drug Court Best Practice Standards. Learners will be empowered to be intentional in identifying opportunities to invoke change in practice, procedure, or policies that affect and improve racial equity outcomes in their own professional roles.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Recognize how racial and ethnic disparities appear in the treatment court realm
  • Understand how the adult drug court best practice standards can be seen through a racial equity lens
  • Develop ways to incorporate racial equity decision making into their daily roles and responsibilities
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Date: Wednesday, July 21, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Cassie Branderhorst, Sober Grid & Tyesia WIlliams, Louisiana Department of Corrections
Title of Presentation: Leveraging Technology and Innovation for Reentry Support and Success
Description: In our pre-COVID-19 world, the statistics surrounding addiction and opioid use disorder were already staggering. Now, as communities and providers slowly reopen, we are seeing remarkable increases in behavioral health issues. Many individuals have experienced higher levels of anxiety, depression, social isolation, financial worries, changes at work and home, and a continuous sense of uncertainty. As practitioners, many in the treatment field have asked themselves, “how do we reach people where they are when we are all in isolation from one another?” If there have been any silver linings associated with COVID-19 and the associated quarantine measures, one is the broad expansion and adoption of tech enabled tools for the delivery of support to people in treatment and recovery.

Sober Grid is a national digital health organization providing evidence-based addiction recovery peer coaching via telehealth to help individuals achieve sustained recovery. They are currently partnering with the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections. With funding from the Comprehensive Opioid Abuse Site-based Program (COAP) as part of Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), Sober Grid provides virtual peer support coaching to participants in the Recovery from Opioid Abuse and Reentry (ROAR) Program. Offenders with opiate use disorders entering treatment during incarceration at the Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center (BDCC) are provided a voucher code to access a peer coach to help them navigate systems upon release as well as 24/7/365 Crisis Support.

In this webinar, we will provide an overview of tech tools for treatment and recovery, explore the different opportunities for utilizing tech enabled supports for people at reentry, and discuss best practices for implementation.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the current landscape of tech-enabled tools for supporting people struggling with SUD
  • Recognize and overcome barriers to the implementation of tech-enabled treatment
  • Utilize app-based technology to refer clients to peer coaching support and services
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Sober Grid Peer Support Outcome Data


Date: Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Recent Updates to the RSAT Promising Practices Guidelines
Description: The Promising Practices Guidelines for Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (PPGs for RSAT) were first published in November 2017 based upon research in the field of substance use disorder treatment and correctional programming. In 2019, the Bureau of Justice Assistance launched a national program to assess RSAT program adherence to these guidelines. These Fidelity Assessments are currently underway to determine the strengths as well as the training and technical assistance needs of RSAT programs and grantees.

The PPGs for RSAT was meant to be a dynamic document that would be revised as more outcomes and feedback from jails, prisons, and aftercare programs were obtained. In January 2021, a revised manual was published to assist correctional administrators and practitioners to establish and maintain RSAT programs to align with existing research and related standards developed for criminal justice and co-occurring disorder programming and services. This webinar will review the recent revision of the PPGs for RSAT that are the foundation of outcome-based and effective programming and important for all RSAT administrators, managers and staff to know.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List the seven Promising Practices Principles for RSAT programs and become familiar with principle subcomponents.
  • Identify those areas within the RSAT program(s) you manage / oversee that are not in alignment with the PPGs for RSAT.
  • Develop a plan for those areas within the RSAT program(s) that need support, training, and/or other assistance to help them be in better alignment with the PPGs for RSAT.
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Date: Wednesday, May 19, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Michelle Cleary
Title of Presentation: Specialized Programming and Treatment Issues for Veterans in Jails and Prisons
Description: Working with veterans provides an opportunity to support individuals who have served our country. One of the ways this can be done in corrections is the establishment of special programs for incarcerated veterans. RSAT-TTA's recently developed manual on veterans programming is designed to explore the various considerations in establishing a specialized program for incarcerated veterans. This webinar will highlight these considerations, as well as the variety of health and cultural factors, in establishing programming for veterans.

During their service, service members received rigorous and intensive training to enable them to carry out their military service in challenging and dangerous circumstances. These ingrained skills can also be considered a resource in helping veterans during their incarceration to prepare for a successful transition from jail or prison.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Cite common health issues many veterans face
  • Identify strengths of military culture
  • Name evidence-based tools and/or resources to support veterans in jail/prison settings
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Date: Wednesday, May 5, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Angelia Turner & Benjamin Campbell
Title of Presentation: Eliminating stigma surrounding SUD treatment among clients with HIV/AIDS
Description:This RSAT session will introduce issues surrounding stigma and shame and its relationship to treatment, including addressing how HIV and SUD/OUD are related. Additionally, this webinar will cover the "Two-Pronged Approach" to working against Stigma/Shame and the tools needed to implement a harm-reduction oriented Shame and Stigma Reduction Program. This session will also discuss how to interact with local stakeholders and community members to best serve and support clients with HIV/AIDS.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the problems associated with stigmas and shame specific to clients with HIV/AIDS
  • Recognize how HIV and SUD/OUD are related
  • Understand harm reduction programming in SUD delivery
  • Facilitate greater appreciation for community input and resources surrounding treatment models and HIV/AIDS clients
View the recording of this webinar
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Date: Wednesday, April 21, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Andy Klein, Ph.D.
Title of Presentation: Investigation of the Cumberland County Jail
Description: This webinar will examine the U.S. Department of Justice’s investigation of the Cumberland County Jail in Bridgeton, NJ which was conducted pursuant to the Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA). The investigation focused on whether the CCJ complies with its obligations under the Constitution by taking adequate measures to provide mental health care and to prevent inmate suicides. These types of investigations were severely curtailed during the Trump Administration but are expected to increase during the Biden Administration.

After investigation of the Cumberland County Jail, the U.S. Justice Department found the jail’s failure to provide MAT for opiate withdrawal violated the Eighth and Fourteenth Amendments. The report finds that the lack of medication for opiate withdrawal is linked to preventable jail suicides and provides a list of required reforms, including to “ensure that medication assisted treatment is immediately provided to prisoners who have been identified as having or potentially having Opiate Use Disorder at time of admission.”

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Recognize legal standard for determining constitutional violations of inmate rights in the provision of health care and suicide prevention
  • Identify the association between opioid withdrawal and suicide
  • List at least three remedies to meet constitutionally required intervention for persons entering jail under the influence of opioids
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Date: Wednesday, April 7, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Alex Duncan, Pew Charitable Trusts
Title of Presentation: Opioid Use Disorder Treatment and Reentry Best Practices with Short Jail Stays
Description: To reduce the risk of opioid overdose and death when reentering the community after incarceration, individuals with opioid use disorder who are incarcerated should have access to jail-provided medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) – methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone – and are promptly connected to services in the community upon release. Planning for reentry from jail is challenging under normal circumstances but is even more challenging when people are admitted and released within days. On January 1, 2017, New Jersey implemented criminal justice reform which shifted the state away from cash bail and set deadlines for timely indictment and disposition of criminal charges. Under this new system, people are released from jail quite rapidly, leaving little time to provide OUD treatment within the jail and to plan for continuity of OUD treatment in the community.

Hudson County, NJ recently created the Department of Housing and Community Reintegration to coordinate reentry. The Department houses all county housing resources, including the county Housing and Urban Development office; operates portions of Medicaid; oversees the clinical network of care; and has over 80 intensive case managers. The Department formed the Division of Reentry, moving reentry from a programmatic endeavor to a recognized piece of government armed with all county resources to ensure successful reentry to the community. The goals of the Division of Reentry, under the leadership of its first Division Chief, Jacqueline Jetter, is to help coordinate all community reentry services, including services co-located at critical points of contact for people reentering the community, avoid incarceration, and facilitate diversion.

The purpose of this webinar is to discuss common characteristics of successful MOUD and reentry programs and will highlight the jail reentry program in Hudson County, NJ.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define characteristics of successful jail MOUD programs
  • Describe why continuity of care is important
  • List components of a comprehensive reentry program
  • Identify ways to incorporate aspects of Hudson County, NJ’s reentry program into their facility's reentry program
View the recording of this webinar
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Date: Wednesday, March 17, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Treating Clients with Methamphetamine and Stimulant Use Disorder
Description: In recent years, there has been alarming growth in methamphetamine (meth) and cocaine use and their involvement in overdose fatalities. In 2004, they were the most common illicit drugs used by state and federal prison inmates and convicted jail inmates. However, usage steadily declined among arrestees for more than a decade and was overtaken by opioids. The “meth problem” never really disappeared, and it began to accelerate around 2013, a trend that is expected to continue. There have also been steep increases in cocaine overdose deaths, mainly driven by its use in combination with opioids (75% of the time), whereas half of meth deaths involve opioids, but fatalities attributed to methamphetamine alone are also on the rise. Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications for treatment, nor antidotes that can prevent stimulant overdose fatality.

RSAT programs, especially in eastern states, may be faced with growing meth use among clients with opioid use disorder (OUD), including those receiving MAT, as well as growing numbers of chronic meth users. However, successfully treating individuals in RSAT programs who use meth and other stimulants is not only possible, it also can be achieved without separate dedicated programs or drastic departures from evidence-based behavioral interventions already in place.

This webinar will introduce the new RSAT manual designed to help staff integrate specific approaches that have been successful with clients involved with meth and other stimulants – building upon the experience of many correctional systems west of the Mississippi.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify at least one reason RSAT clients with OUD may initiate methamphetamine and/or other stimulant use and integrate approaches to mitigate the associated risks
  • Explain the profound psychological and cognitive consequences of chronic meth use and list at least two accommodations staff may need to apply to the delivery of RSAT programming
  • Locate three examples of manualized treatments, evidence-based interventions, or correctional programs that offer resources to help RSAT programs integrate best practices
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Date: Wednesday, March 3, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Angelia Turner
Title of Presentation: History of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Corrections - Part 2
Description: Diversity continues to serve as both a challenge and opportunity for society to reach its fullest potential. American communities continue to face issues that have an impact on individual and collective growth – including issues specific to diversity, justice-involved groups, and RSAT service providers. Corrections personnel consistently play a role in the application of justice and treatment. The purpose of this webinar is to provide a guide for understanding the history and development of diversity programming, the underlying causes of implicit biases, and the related consequences of misguided or nonexistent diversity policies. This webinar will delve into equity, diversity, and inclusion strategies useful for corrections personnel, and (more specifically) to programs targeted to individuals with substance use disorders. As the criminal justice system and corrections field continues to expand, it is important to expand diversity programs, provide training, and implement policies that incorporates diversity, equity, and inclusion as its central theme.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the impact that Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion programs have on recidivism rates
  • Identify programs that are designated as national models for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, per correctional program models
  • Describe current EDI policies and future legislation
View the recording of this webinar series
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Date: Wednesday, February 17, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Angelia Turner
Title of Presentation: History of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Corrections - Part 1
Description: Diversity continues to serve as both a challenge and opportunity for society to reach its fullest potential. American communities continue to face issues that have an impact on individual and collective growth – including issues specific to diversity, justice-involved groups, and RSAT service providers. Corrections personnel consistently play a role in the application of justice and treatment. The purpose of this webinar is to provide a guide for understanding the history and development of diversity programming, the underlying causes of implicit biases, and the related consequences of misguided or nonexistent diversity policies. This webinar will delve into equity, diversity, and inclusion strategies useful for corrections personnel, and (more specifically) to programs targeted to individuals with substance use disorders. As the criminal justice system and corrections field continues to expand, it is important to expand diversity programs, provide training, and implement policies that incorporates diversity, equity, and inclusion as its central theme.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the history of diversity programming in corrections and recognize the contemporary population shift(s) among justice-involved groups
  • Describe the need for diversity and equity programming today in corrections in comparison to past decades
  • Explain RSAT and its relationship to diversity tools
View the recording of this webinar series
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Date: Wednesday, January 6, 2021
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Trauma & Resilience amid COVID-19: Recognizing and Responding to Increased Stress among Correctional Workers
Description: It’s been about 10 months since the first cases of Covid-19 started showing up in US jails and prisons. Since that time, correctional facilities have been recognized as “hot-spots” for the spread of the virus with nearly 300,000 incarcerated and detained people becoming infected with the virus. There have also been close to 70,000 cases of Covid-19 among correctional workers with over 100 deaths. The strain of working with others who are sick or potentially sick, in an environment that is short of staff with officers pulling two and three shifts at a time, and with the thought of bringing home an infectious virus to family members, has become almost unbearable for some. This webinar will remind us what to look for in our colleagues and ourselves when it comes to increased depression, grief and other warning signs of increased stress. We’ll also review what we can do to respond in healthier ways to take care of ourselves personally and as a community of criminal justice professionals.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify at least three descriptions of increased stress that can be observed in colleagues and yourself as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic effects within the workplace
  • Describe at least two other variables that can add to increased stress within the workplace as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic
  • Develop at least two ways to respond and increase resilience for yourself and colleagues during times of increased stress
View the recording of this webinar series
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Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Kate Price & Abigail Judge
Title of Presentation: Residential Substance Abuse Treatment for Juvenile Justice-Involved Youth
Description: Addressing substance use disorders (SUDs) in juvenile corrections is essential. Not only do half of juveniles involved in the justice system have problems with drugs and alcohol (compared to only 10 percent of juveniles in general), but research confirms that effective intervention during adolescence has the potential to offset or mitigate the long-term course of SUDs. Like programs for adults, Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) programs for juveniles must be, to the extent possible, evidence-based, addressing substance use disorders as well as mental health disorders, including the effects of trauma. These requirements are particularly important for programs serving adolescents: adolescents with SUDs frequently have co-occurring mental health disorders, traumatic histories, and other risk factors that present unique challenges for the juvenile justice system.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand major issues that must be recognized and addressed in treating juvenile justice-involved youth with SUDs, including intergenerational trauma and substance use; gender responsiveness; cultural competencies; and neurodevelopment
  • Identify core components of juvenile RSAT programs, and corresponding best practices
  • Describe evidence-based SUD treatment programs for juveniles, including examples of juvenile RSAT programs throughout the United States
View the recording of this webinar series
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Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: Angelia Turner, TASC 
Title of Presentation: Addressing the Special Needs of Clients based on Gender, Race, and Culture - Practitioner Tools
Description: While addressing the needs of female clients, screening and assessment are critical steps for ensuring that individuals receive services and clinical support. Ethnicity, race, and gender plays an important role in treatment and therapy modalities. Cultural dynamics impact communication, screening, referrals, interventions, and substance use disorders and its relationship to diversity issues.

This webinar will address several assessment instruments that can be useful resources for RSAT program servicing diverse populations, including the Cultural Competence in Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT) and the Women’s Risk Needs Assessment (WRNA) models. Additionally, several diagnostic tools for identifying alcohol and other substance use disorders will be shared including CAGE questionnaire, CRAFFT quiz, Drug Abuse Screening Tool, TWEAK, T-ACE, and Jellinek Chart, as well as SMART Interactive practitioner resources. 

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify assessment instruments and protocols for diverse communities
  • Determine diagnostic tools that best help identify alcohol and other substance use disorders within your RSAT program and jail/prison
  • Understand acculturation and language issues in screening, assessment, and treatment
View the recording of this webinar series
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Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenters: David Lucas, MSW, Center for Court Innovation; Tamara Beetham, Yale University; Dawn Patrick, Affinia Healthcare; Rachel Winograd, Ph.D, Missouri Institute of Mental Health 
Title of Presentation: The ‘Medication-First’ Model & Barriers in Accessing Treatment
Description: This webinar will focus on the principles of the Medication-First model (individuals with OUD receive treatment as quickly as possible; maintenance pharmacotherapy is delivered without arbitrary tapering or time limits; individualized psychosocial services are continually offered but not required; and pharmacotherapy is discontinued if it is worsening the individual’s condition), and an open discussion on promoting equity in MOUD treatment opportunities, as well as, special considerations for those with criminal legal system involvement.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify and describe the range of barriers individuals face in accessing opioid agonist therapies
  • Explain how these barriers reproduce existing disparities in healthcare and treatment access
  • Recognize how the Medication-First model of care is responsive to these challenges
View the recording of this webinar series.
Download the PowerPoint for this webinar.


Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:15 PM ET
Presenters:
  • Jim Carroll, Director, Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP)
  • Katharine Sullivan, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Justice Programs (OJP)
  • Siobhan Morse, Director of Clinical Services/Research-Special Projects, Behavioral Health Division, Universal Health Services (UHS)
  • Andrew Klein, RSAT TTA Project Director, Advocates for Human Potential, Inc.
  • Jac Charlier, COSSAP TTA Executive Director, TASC Center for Health and Justice
  • Elizabeth Burden, Senior Specialist/Technical Assistance Director, Altarum
Title of Presentation: NATIONAL RECOVERY MONTH WEBINAR - Assisting Communities to Incorporate Recovery Initiatives and Medication Assisted Treatment at all Intercept Points of the Criminal Justice System
Description: In recognition of National Recovery Month, OJP is pleased to host a webinar today featuring OJP’s Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Katharine Sullivan, and Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, Jim Carroll, two agencies that have helped make Recovery Month a year long, committed endeavor. OJP and ONDCP will discuss their efforts to continue promoting the adoption of medication assisted treatment to treat opioid use disorders in community and corrections settings. The webinar will focus on Office of Justice Program initiatives that expand and enhance the quality of evidence-based addiction treatment, including access to life-saving medication with continuing care in the community.

View the recording of this webinar series.
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Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenter: Michelle Cleary & Sheriff Peter Koutoujian
Title of Presentation: Improving Outcomes: Working with Military Veterans in Correctional Settings
Description: Some veterans struggle with substance use and mental health disorders as well as harm to self and/or others. Many of these men and women are within the justice system in jails and prisons. Understanding their complex and unique issues is essential for both justice treatment and security staff. Having a working knowledge of the military culture, a trauma-informed and military-informed approach to services increase the likelihood of engagement in treatment. Units that serve only veterans within correctional facilities use peers as agents of change. This webinar will review the special needs of veterans, services that support them within the justice system and an overview of a veteran’s unit within a county correctional facility, Middlesex House of Correction and Jail.

The Housing Unit for Military Veterans (HUMV) opened in January 2016 and was conceived and designed as a collaborative effort of the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office together with incarcerated Veterans with a goal of treating and preparing them for successful reentry. HUMV’s barracks-style layout, combined with wellness and treatment programs, as well as guest speakers allow Veterans to call on their camaraderie and their shared military experiences to address the challenges which have led to their incarceration. HUMV is similar to a modified therapeutic community, and participants also have regular meetings with state and federal Veterans affairs representatives, substance abuse treatment, vocational and employment readiness training and have access to optional physical training. HUMV staff work with offenders to create individualized comprehensive reentry plans which address the specific needs of each Veteran and regularly works with the Veterans Court to divert appropriate cases.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify three common characteristics of justice involved veterans
  • Recognize at least three elements of military culture awareness
  • Outline the benefits to the staff and participants of veterans specific programming in correctional settings
View the recording of this webinar series.
Download the PowerPoint for this webinar.


Date: Wednesday, July 29, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenter: Eve Weinberg & Jac Charlier, Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC)
Title of Presentation: 2-Part Series: High-Intensity Case Management (PART 2)
Description: Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC), an Illinois non-profit that specializes in case management services independent of the treatment system for people referred by legal systems and family services in Illinois, such as jails and courts, the Illinois Department of Corrections (DOC), and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Through decades of specialized case management experience, TASC helps people (women, men, and youth) who are struggling with drug/alcohol use, family issues, and other concerns obtain services that are right for them.

As part of its core functions to ensure continued focus on the needs of the clients, distinct from the needs of service providers for example, TASC conducts reviews of its client-involved critical incidents. As a result of this type of forensic review process, TASC identified common high-risk situations that preceded the client’s critical incident.

In the second part of this two-part webinar series, the discussion will continue on High Intensity Case Management (HICM) Services. The services described in part I will now be covered in greater detail, with benchmarks for each high risk category of clients. Participants will learn when clients can be moved (back down) to regular case management service levels. Also, specific methods of case management using remote technology will be identified and discussed.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify the client populations at highest risk for crises
  • Determine when clients can be stepped down from HICM to regular case management service levels
  • Identify methods of engagement using remote technology
View the recording of PART 2 of this webinar series.
Download the PowerPoint for this webinar.

Date: Wednesday, July 22, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenter: Eve Weinberg & Jac Charlier, Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC)
Title of Presentation: 2-Part Series: High-Intensity Case Management (part 1)
Description: Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities (TASC), an Illinois non-profit that specializes in case management services independent of the treatment system for people referred by legal systems and family services in Illinois, such as jails and courts, the Illinois Department of Corrections (DOC), and the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Through decades of specialized case management experience, TASC helps people (women, men, and youth) who are struggling with drug/alcohol use, family issues, and other concerns obtain services that are right for them.

As part of its core functions to ensure continued focus on the needs of the clients, distinct from the needs of service providers for example, TASC conducts reviews of its client-involved critical incidents. As a result of this type of forensic review process, TASC identified common high-risk situations that preceded the client’s critical incident.

In the first of this two-part RSAT webinar series, participants will learn the High-Intensity Case Management (HICM) protocol developed in order to decrease the frequency and severity of the types of crises’ clients were involved in.. The two-part webinar series will review clients identified as high risk (not used in the criminogenic understanding of the phrase “high-risk” but an exposure to events and activities that endanger the client’s success), how to screen for these clients, what services should be provided in order to decrease their risk of being involved in critical events,, the frequency with which services should be provided, and concrete measures to determine when clients can move (back) to regular case management services. The webinars, a two-part series, will provide pragmatic, concrete descriptions of HICM service delivery.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define High-Intensity case management
  • Screen clients in need of HICM
  • Identify service goals for HICM
View the recording of PART 1 of this webinar series.
Download the PowerPoint for this webinar.


Date: Wednesday, July 15, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenter: David Lucas, Michael Hines & Jeff Smith
Title of Presentation: Beyond Drug Courts: Two Alternative Court-Based Strategies for Preventing Overdose Post-Arrest
Description: For decades, drug courts have been the leading model serving justice-involved individuals with opioid use disorders, and they continue to play a role in combating the overdose crisis. Drug courts alone, however, are not enough. New courtroom and community-based strategies are needed to ensure swift linkages to evidence-based treatments — including medications for opioid use disorder — wraparound supports, and harm reduction services.

This presentation will provide an overview of the 10 Essential Elements of an Opioid Intervention Court and the take an in-depth look at two unique justice system strategies that approach overdose prevention differently. It will feature presentations from Jeff Smith, co-founder of Buffalo’s “Opioid Court” and Michael Hines, co-creator of Connecticut’s “Treatment Pathways Program” and will be followed by a facilitated conversation between the discussants and audience.


After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the opioid overdose risks uniquely associated with arrest and court system involvement and the key components of an effective response
  • Identify the essential court and community-based partnerships needed to address this risk effectively
  • Envision a court-based overdose prevention strategy tailored to local needs, available resources, and stakeholder buy-in
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenter: Roger Allen & Roberta C. Churchill
Title of Presentation: Trauma & Resilience amid COVID-19 (part 2): Increasing Resilience for People Housed Within Jails/Prisons
Description: There are a variety of mental health concerns that have arisen among people housed in jails and prisons due to heightened stress and anxiety brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. Men and women with histories of trauma and substance use disorders have experienced exacerbated symptoms due to social distancing and other limitations brought on by this unprecedented public health crisis. This webinar will provide information and resources for staff to help incarcerated and detained people develop coping skills, reduce stress and manage fear. Mindfulness, meditation, stress reduction and grounding techniques are some of the ways that RSAT participants and others housed in jails / prisons can reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms and increase emotional regulation and resilience.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe at least three of the ways that mindfulness meditation can help and is valuable for people in prisons and jails
  • Name three of the ways that mindfulness meditation can support treatment for substance use disorders, anxiety, and trauma
  • Identify at least four of the cautions of facilitating mindfulness mediation sessions with incarcerated/detained clients
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
*The CEH quiz is not accessible through the recording. Please complete a TA Request to RSAT-TTA to receive the link.
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: Wednesday, June 17, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenter: Roberta C. Churchill
Title of Presentation: Trauma & Resilience amid COVID-19 (part 1): Recognizing and Responding to Trauma and Increased Stress Among People Housed Within Jails/Prisons
Description: It is well known that the prevalence of mental health disorders among people housed in jails and prisons is significantly higher than the general population. Post-traumatic stress disorder is also much higher for men and women incarcerated and detained compared to people not involved in the justice system. People with substance use disorders such as RSAT participants are even more likely to have a co-occurring disorder. Most correctional facilities recognize this and have programs and classes in place to address and treat these issues. However, the pandemic of covid-19 that has spread like wildfire throughout US prisons and jails has resulted in not only serious physical illness but increased stress for our the most vulnerable of the people we serve. This webinar is the first in a four-part series that addresses trauma and resilience amid Covid-19 for people in jail and prisons as well as for correctional workers who are on the “front lines”.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe at least three of the effects of trauma on people who are incarcerated and detained in jails and prisons
  • Name two of the ways that the Covid-19 pandemic could have increased stress, triggered, and/or re-traumatized individuals housed in prisons and jails
  • Develop at least two ways to increase resilience and/or social support for the people detained and incarcerated in your facility
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: Wednesday, May 27, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenter: Dr. Bruce Herdman & Kungchiha Joebaham, Philadelphia Department of Prisons
Title of Presentation: Jail Health & Safety Protocols Due to COVID-19
Description: The Philadelphia Department of Prisons (PDP) sees approximately 23,000 persons enter their facilities each year and completes an extensive intake and screening within 4 hours of entry. This includes screenings for opioid use disorders and the first steps for reentry planning and continued care. The PDP opened its doors to RSAT TTA inviting us to film a documentary on this nationally recognized 4-hour intake process in addition to their extensive Medication Assisted Treatment program. The film focuses on the importance of an expedited intake, screening for opioid use disorders, administration of buprenorphine, and the avoidance of diversion through partnerships with the City of Philadelphia’s Centers of Excellence.

However, since filming, an even greater challenge has fallen on the PDP and all jails and prisons around the country, COVID-19. This pandemic required immediate screening not only for the protection and care of entering persons but the entire population of incarcerated persons and all corrections staff, including correctional officers, medical personnel, etc. Not surprisingly, the PDP has been able to embed new COVID-19 screening procedures and policies to respond to this new challenge within its existing 4 hour intake and screening program as well as continue to offer opioid treatment to its detainees in need.

During this webinar, we will be premiering a video on Philadelphia Department of Prisons' innovative intake process and MAT programming as well as their protocol and procedure changes related to the pandemic!

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Explain how to adhere to guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) and the Bureau of Prisons (BOP)
  • Identify strategies to continue offering treatment and services to persons with substance use disorders
  • Implement practices and procedures required to promote a safe and healthy environment within a correctional facility
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: Wednesday, May 20, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenter: Eve Weinberg & Jac Charlier
Title of Presentation: Tele-RSAT: The Time is Now
Description: Using telehealth technology to connect with and provide services to criminal justice clients – especially those with behavioral health issues- is an opportunity, challenge and necessity all at once. This webinar will help professionals who work with this population:
  • Identify various methods of connecting with clients via telehealth;
  • Discuss barriers you or your criminal justice client may experience in using telehealth;
  • Identify strategies to overcome those barriers;
  • Review the ways that telehealth services can aid in clients’ re-entry into the community;
  • Provide an overview of some privacy issues related to providing telehealth services.
The webinar will discuss how professionals around the country have adapted and broadened their service delivery model to include telehealth services, both before the current pandemic and in the face of COVID-19. We’ll discuss the relative strengths of these services and their application in the criminal justice and behavioral health fields. We’ll focus on practical tips on how to prepare for, provide and document services via telehealth. Including helpful talking points and preparation checklists.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Recognize at least 3 ways to connect with clients via telehealth that protect their privacy
  • Identify at least 3 things necessary for a telehealth session
  • Create at least 5 topics appropriate to discuss at a telehealth session
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenter: David Lucas
Title of Presentation: Court-Based Overdose Prevention Strategies
Description: The overdose crisis is a front and center issue for justice system practitioners as is understanding the complex efforts to address it. Responses to this epidemic vary depending on local needs and resources but typically include medications for opioid use disorder, psychosocial counselling, telehealth, naloxone distribution, syringe exchange programs, peer support, and a range of wraparound supports. While drug courts have been a leading model in serving court-involved individuals with opioid use disorders, preventing overdose requires drug courts and other court-based interventions to incorporate new strategies alongside their existing best practices. This presentation will outline these approaches as well as take a close look at the “opioid intervention court” model and its unique approach to preventing overdose. Lastly, this webinar will discuss how drug courts are responding to the evolving COVID-19 pandemic and its intersection with the overdose crisis. The webinar will discuss how professionals around the country have adapted and broadened their service delivery model to include telehealth services, both before the current pandemic and in the face of COVID-19. We’ll discuss the relative strengths of these services and their application in the criminal justice and behavioral health fields. We’ll focus on practical tips on how to prepare for, provide and document services via telehealth. Including helpful talking points and preparation checklists.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Implement targeted overdose prevention strategies for drug court clients
  • Identify the essential elements of the “opioid intervention court” model
  • Adapt treatment, risk reduction and supervision practices to align with COVID-19 directives
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Time: 2:00 PM ET - 3:00 PM ET
Presenter: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Reducing Stigma in the Workplace: Addressing Personal & Professional Bias
Description: Stigma can be defined as a mark of disgrace or infamy, a stain or reproach. Substance use disorders carry a high burden of stigma and can result in many people not seeking treatment or asking for help. The most effective pharmacological treatments available are also stigmatized by the public, many helping professionals and some people in recovery. Society’s perspective of people with a history of incarceration is yet another heavy weight to bear. The way to start making changes in reducing stigma for clients, however, is by beginning to address our own personal and professional biases.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify at least three negative consequences of stigma related to substance use disorders and pharmacological treatment
  • Describe why language matters in reducing stigma towards incarcerated and detained people with substance use disorders
  • Identify one change you are willing to make to reduce your own bias in your professional workplace
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date:
April 15, 2020 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Preparing People for Reentry from Jails and Prisons During the COVID-19 Epidemic
Description: RSAT-TTA recognizes the challenges jails and prisons are facing throughout the country in the wake of coronavirus (COVID-19). Not only are health and safety protocols affecting treatment schedules behind the wall, many jail and prison systems are taking measures to reduce the incarcerated population via expedited scheduled releases by moving up release dates, and because RSAT programs generally serve inmates in the last few months of their sentence they are likely candidates for early release. This poses challenges related to reentry planning and reintegration into the community, especially when the continuation of substance use disorder treatment is an integral part of an individual’s plan.

This webinar will explore the added tasks and considerations of reentry planning during the COVID-19 epidemic, as well as the increased risks associated with drug and alcohol use upon release. RSAT-TTA recently released a manual to address these issues and concerns which includes essential practices to maintain and additional measures to consider that will limit the transmission of COVID-19 during the reentry process.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Implement practices for their RSAT program to decrease the likelihood of COVID-19 transmission and spreading
  • Prepare inmates for early release, if necessary, that includes essential reentry planning for continuation of SUD treatment
  • Discuss strategies with their RSAT clients to best prepare for a healthy and safe reintegration back into the community while also supporting their treatment plan and recovery goals
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation
Click HERE to download the formalized Q&A from this webinar 


Date: January 29, 2010 1:00 PM ET
Presenters: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Reentry Strategies to Reduce Recidivsm and Sustain Recovery
Description: This month's webinar will focus on strategies and best practices for reentry services in both prison and jail RSAT programming, as outlined in the recently developed RSAT manual, Reentry Strategies to Reduce Recidivsm and Sustain Recovery. The purpose of the manual is to provide useful tools and information to assist with prerelease planning for RSAT clients, including continuing care for SUDs and linkages to community-based transitional and recovery supports that pave the way for reentry success. Additionally, there are steps correctional staff and administrators can take to reduce the risk of post-release opioid and other drug overdose, including facilitation of the referral/warm handoff procedures RSAT programs can employ with collaborations community agencies.

Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation



Date: December 11, 2019 1:00 PM ET
Presenters: Allison Lin, David Moore & William Morrone
Title of Presentation: Leveraging Telehealth for Justice-Involved Individuals: Expanding Access to Mental and Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Description: Many communities are adopting telehealth as one way to address gaps in access to treatment for mental and substance use disorders for justice-involved populations. This webinar hosted by SAMHSA’s GAINS Center in partnership with Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Training and Technical Assistance (RSAT-TTA) will present ways to incorporate telemedicine into treatment programming for substance use and mental health disorders, including how to expand access to medication-assisted treatment using telemedicine, types of telehealth provider settings, and implementation best practices and barriers. Several program examples will be reviewed, including a program using telehealth to improve services to tribal members.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: October 16, 2019 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues and Professional Boundaries with Justice-Involved Individuals
Description: Ethical issues related to professional boundaries are among the most problematic and challenging. Although some issues may seem more clear-cut in correctional settings, others may fall into the “gray area” depending on one’s role / job description. This training will provide an awareness and understanding of professional boundaries – what they are and why they are important. It will introduce participants to the concept of the Power Differential and how it impacts the relationships between all RSAT Program staff and their community members. It will review various slippery slope scenarios that highlight compromised boundaries and will provide participants responses they can call upon if they are in danger of crossing a professional boundary within their program.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define the concept of “power differential”
  • Identify three types of professional boundaries and their relevance when working with RSAT community members and all justice involved individuals
  • List at least three warning signs that boundaries may be at risk of being crossed/compromised
  • Develop a plan of action if boundaries are in danger of becoming unprofessional/boundaries have been crossed
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: September 25, 2019 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Prevention, Detection & Current Clinical Guidelines: HIV/AIDS & Viral Hepatitis
Description: RSAT staffs are hardly expected to attend to the medical issues facing clients in treatment. However, research shows certain health risk behaviors cluster among offenders with SUD. Because RSAT programs play a significant role in promoting behavioral change, they offer a unique opportunity to help modify behaviors that can reduce the risk of HIV infection and transmission of viral hepatitis among an extremely high-risk population. Addiction professionals also have an important role in informing clients about the benefits of testing and early identification and ensuring inmates living with HIV/AIDS and/or viral hepatitis take responsibility for protecting others from exposure. RSAT staff can also support clients diagnosed with these conditions by making them aware of advances in effective treatments. RSAT programs that provide clients with up-to-date information on prevention, screening, testing, and treatment help improve public health and public safety. This webinar outlines recent changes in HIV clinical care guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It presents current surveillance data on sharp increases in hepatitis C (HCV) prevalence, and data that suggests unlike HIV, HCV infection appears to be spreading within secure facilities. It also reviews recent reports on hepatitis A outbreaks in several states and identifies at-risk populations. Advances in prevention and treatment, guidelines to ensure staff safety, and resources relevant to re-entering RSAT clients are included.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe the major changes to clinical care guidelines for people living with HIV/AIDS and discuss the implications for RSAT clients
  • List the challenges of educating clients in custody settings about the benefits of testing and reducing high-risk behaviors for transmission of HIV infection and viral hepatitis
  • Explain at least two co-infections that commonly occur among HIV positive with SUD individuals in custody settings
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: July 17, 2019 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Nixon Camilien, Ph.D.
Title of Presentation: Aftercare Planning and Community Corrections
Description: Aftercare is an important component of Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) because it plays a significant role in the recovery from substance use disorders. Whether on probation or on parole, RSAT graduates rely on their community corrections officers to facilitate access to treatment and recovery resources in the community, including mental health, medical services, housing, employment, family relationships, transportation, or personal identification. This webinar will focus on the role of community corrections for access to treatment and other services in the community. We highlight some strategies that officers can use to enhance community supervision and rehabilitation of RSAT clients from the pre-release phase to the final discharge. Ultimately, participants will be more efficient in saving lives, promoting public safety and reducing recidivism.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe the role of the community corrections officer in aftercare planning for RSAT clients
  • Provide examples of how community corrections can work with community service providers to optimize the recovery of RSAT clients
  • Integrate best practices strategies in the supervision of RSAT clients in the community
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: June 19, 2019 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Dr. Andy Klein
Title of Presentation: Detoxification vs. Withdrawal Management: The Jail Challenge
Description: Today, by default, jails have become the primary institutions for detoxifying individuals on opioids and other addictive drugs and alcohol. While there is agreement that detoxification is not treatment, there are no agreed upon protocols or standards for detoxification in hospitals and facilities in the community, much less in correctional institutions. There is even disagreement on whether persons with substance use disorders (SUD’s) should undergo detoxification or managed withdrawal and induction of opioid medications. This webinar will discuss the challenges jails and prisons confront with entering individuals suffering withdrawal from drugs and alcohol, including withdrawal related deaths and legal liability, as well as emerging jail and prison protocols for detoxification and withdrawal management.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify the challenges jails and prisons face with increased incarcerated individuals suffering from withdrawal
  • Describe treatment options for individuals with SUD’s in corrections facilities
  • Understand and be able to implement necessary protocols to properly treat incarcerated individuals in need of detoxification services
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: May 15, 2019 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Dr. Audrey Kern
Title of Presentation: Technology in Treating Opioid Use Disorders
Description: Every day, approximately 115 Americans experience a fatal opioid overdose. The misuse of opioids has become a major public health crisis. While various forms of medication addressing opioid use disorders have expanded from orals to injectables, Pear Therapeutics has developed the first technology-based prescription treatment to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

reSET-O is described as a prescription digital therapeutic (PDT) and is a 12-week cognitive behavioral therapy intended to be used in addition to outpatient treatment. It has been clinically proven to increase the likelihood that a patient will remain in treatment, while also providing a way for patients to access treatment anytime, anywhere, under clinician supervision. This webinar will explore the ins and outs of reSET-O, how it can be prescribed, and the ways in which it can be accessed.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe the referral and supervisory process of the prescription digital therapeutic, reSET-O
  • Identify the collaborative treatment planning between a patient, clinician and prescribing physician
  • Understand the intended use of reSET-O as a mobile medical application to increase treatment retention
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: April 17, 2019 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Michelle Cole
Title of Presentation: Family Reunification in Corrections
Description: Reuniting with one's children and family can me a very difficult and stressful part of release and re-entry. The RSAT program at the West Tennessee State Penitentiary in Henning, TN contains unique men’s and women’s programs focusing on family reunification. The Men’s Residential Center (MRC) and the Women’s Therapeutic Center (WTRC) offer programs to train participants to become Certified Peer Recovery Specialists, advancing post-release employment prospects as well as reinforcing their own recovery. The WTRC provides live-in weekend visitation for participants’ children to maintain crucial parental ties and provide motivation for long term recovery upon release. The MRC similarly arranges family visits prior to release that includes group counseling to address issues of concern in a safe, supportive and substance-free environment. These and the model therapeutic communities that house them will offer visitors opportunities to see practices and programs in operation that they can take home to their own facilities.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe the benefits of family reunification as part of re-entry planning.
  • Identify best practices for developing a comprehensive program that encompasses family visits, employment and recovery
  • Understand the importance of peer recovery specialists and the impact it they have in therapeutic communities
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: February 27, 2019 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Tommie Bower
Title of Presentation: Re-Entry: Issues & Opportunities
Description: Re-entry planning is a critical component of an incarcerated individual’s time behind the wall. Clients in RSAT programs rely on program staff for assistance with a long list of possible issues: housing, transportation, work, finances, medical/psychiatric services, recovery supports, family relationships and even food. Any of these factors can influence an individual’s ability to reenter the community and to sustain recovery.

This webinar will offer a series of strategies for using the reentry time to consolidate treatment gains, and to evaluate priorities by using a contextual assessment. A plan for managing the critical post-release first day and first week will be covered. Other approaches to preparing for reentry such as predicting barriers, updating motivation for recovery, and a review of treatment needs such as medication assisted treatment will be shared. Research is emerging about the value of recovery navigators. As community and family supports are vital to this population, we will discuss efforts to improve “warm handoffs”, and engagement strategies.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the importance of assessing a client’s needs and priorities for re-entry
  • Develop and review a transitional treatment plan for release supports
  • Describe the importance of continuing treatment in the community
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: January 30, 2019 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Overdose Risk Reduction and Relapse Prevention
Description: Justice-involved individuals with addiction issues are particularly susceptible to relapse and overdose. This webinar will cover ways RAST programs can integrate overdose prevention and risk reduction into relapse prevention groups and release planning, including but not limited models of providing access to naloxone upon release. Attendees will have access to patient educational materials and other practical resources to utilize with clients.

Having a plan in place to prevent relapse and mitigate its duration and intensity is a critical recovery maintenance task, and often essential to reducing recidivism among offenders whose criminal activity is primarily related to substance abuse. This webinar encourages clients have an action plan in place, from a prevention perspective, without implying the inevitability of relapse or minimizing the consequences of a return to drug use.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify which substances and combinations are most commonly involved in overdose incidents and the emergency response to each
  • Describe important safety tips to minimize the risk of unintentional staff exposures to toxic substances
  • Understand basic relapse and overdose prevention and implement response objectives clients can incorporate intro aftercare planning
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: December 19, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Phil Barbour
Title of Presentation: Synthetic Drugs
Description: While the opioid crisis in the U.S. has taken center stage in recent years, we can’t forget there are still a number of “other drugs” that continue to plague our nation. This webinar will focus on some of those substances and includes an overview of synthetic drugs, including substances known on the street as K2, Spice, and Bath Salts. The presentation defines key terms, describes the main classes of synthetic drugs commonly available, presents available data on the extent of use, provides information on identifying and assessing individuals who are using synthetic drugs, and concludes with some clinical implications of synthetic drug use.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify the key characteristics and effects of synthetic drugs, most notably synthetic cannabinoids and synthetic cathinones
  • Describe the current information available on availability and patterns of synthetic drug use in the United States
  • List at least three strategies for communicating the dangers involved with synthetic drug use
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: November 14, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues in Offender Treatment (Part 2): Ethical Dilemmas and Tools for Working Through Them
Description: Eventually, a correctional professional will face an ethical dilemma – a situation where they are unsure of the right thing to do. Many times, there IS no obvious right or wrong decision to make. However, there are many tools that can help people work through difficult situations and come to a decision they can live with. Several of these tools will be reviewed in this webinar as well as several video-clip scenarios that provide ethical dilemmas that people working in the criminal justice system are apt to face. This webinar will also review some basic ethical principles for RSAT Program staff to consider and keep in mind while doing such important work.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Provide the definition of “ethical dilemma”
  • Describe five out of six Ethical Principles for Treatment Professionals
  • Identify at least two decision making tools to help with ethical dilemmas
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: October 17, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues in Offender Treatment (Part 1): Professional Boundaries
Description: Ethical issues related to professional boundaries are among the most problematic and challenging. Although some issues may seem more clear-cut in a correctional setting, others may fall into the “gray area” depending on one’s role / job description. This training will provide an awareness and understanding of professional boundaries – what are they and why they are important. It will introduce participants to the concept of the Power Differential and how it impacts the relationships between all RSAT Program staff and their community members. It will review various slippery slope scenarios that highlight compromised boundaries and will provide participants responses they can call upon if they are in danger of crossing a professional boundary within their program.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Explain the concept of “power differential”
  • Identify three types of professional boundaries and their relevance when working with RSAT community members and all justice involved individuals
  • Describe at least three warning signs that boundaries may be at risk of being crossed/compromised and a plan of action if boundaries are in danger of becoming unprofessional/boundaries have been crossed
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date:September 19, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Tommie Bower, Lisa Talbot-Lundrigan & Steve Valle
Title of Presentation: Double Trouble: Working with the Complications of Addiction and Trauma
Description: Separately Substance Use Disorder (SUD)/addiction and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder(PTSD)/trauma are difficult, chronic disorders. Research and experience show that when they co-occur, the complications double. Both conditions hijack the executive functions of the brain and return it to survivalist mode of chronic alarm followed by attempts to sedate that alarm. Unfortunately for this population, efforts at recovery, even in the best of circumstances, can fail because of recounting traumatic memories and unexpected returns of unhealthy influences, i.e. encountering former drug use partners.

This presentation offers a practical description of the way executive functions are diverted to a chronic alarm state. We will use that lens to discuss the missing skills of self-management, such as the ability to predict and plan for triggers or the ability to manage intense feelings without sedation. We know that recovery from both disorders require learning and practicing a similar set of skills which lead to self-mastery. Strategies to help develop self-management skills necessary to the healing of both disorders are offered. Finally, we will discuss the predictable, normal stressors of reentry and approaches to educate and prepare inmates for that challenge.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Determine how substance use disorders (SUD) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) interact and amplify each other
  • Identify the impact of long-term stressors on autonomic alarm system and the implications for impairments in executive or self-regulation functions
  • Utilize strategies to improve executive and self-regulation functions during phases of incarceration
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: August 15, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters:Desmond Lomax & Eric Barker
Title of Presentation: Release and Reentry Strategies Utilizing Integrated Technology and Effective Collaboration among Institution, Field Supervision, and Community Partners
Description: In this month’s webinar we will be discussing ways the Utah Department of Corrections is utilizing integrated electronic tablet technology to enhance the release and reentry process. This webinar will also provide an in-depth overview of ways the Utah Department of Corrections, Adult Probation and Parole, Treatment Resource Centers and community partners are collaborating to provide structure for the offenders returning back into our communities. The Utah DOC will describe the ways in which they designed and created a Focused Reentry Tablet Program which includes specific and individual needs for each offender designed to create a wraparound treatment performance objective to optimize transition.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify ways utilizing integrated tablet technology can assist with treatment programming and enhance the release and reentry process
  • Utilize effective tools to motivate and engage incarcerated individuals to become an active participant in their release and reentry planning
  • Determine ways to minimize the gap in services between incarceration and community supervision
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: July 18, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Lauranne Howard & Andy Klein
Title of Presentation: Naloxone Education and Distribution in RSAT Programs
Description: This month's webinar will describe the naloxone education and distribution program in the Rhode Island Department of Corrections (RIDOC) to address the state-wide opioid crisis. Re-entry from incarceration is one of the most, if not the most, vulnerable times for an opioid user. In their jail system, the RIDOC has begun offering education to its inmates, in addition to distributing naloxone upon release. The state of Rhode Island has seen a decrease in overdose deaths since the implementation of this aspect of their Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) program.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  •  Describe prospective procedures of naloxone distribution programs for individuals leaving prisons and jails
  •  Identify potential issues in the distribution of naloxone and strategies to avoid them
  •  Explain strategies to reach family members of inmates to educate them about naloxone
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: May 16, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Philip Barbour
Title of Presentation: How to be a Good Facilitator
Description: This month’s webinar will focus on the importance and strategies for being a good facilitator for peer support groups of individuals receiving aftercare treatment and/or support programs. This subject matter will be a follow-up to January’s webinar on the Winners’ Circle cirricula, originating from the Therapeutic Community Model (TC) for formerly incarcerated men and women in recovery from addiction. It will focus on the purpose, structure, and implementation of forming such a community-based support group, with an emphasis on the role of facilitators. Interested and prospective facilitators will be able to confidently lead support groups using this model and be able to aid participants in need of recovery support.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  •  Develop a low-cost, sustainable recovery support system in a community especially where treatment resources may not be readily available
  •  Understand how to become a Facilitator for Winners’ Circle groups
  •  Empower participants and promote "peer coaching" and recovery through best practices
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: April 25, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Steve Keller and Andy Klein
Title of Presentation: Pre-trial Medication Assisted Treatment for Jail Populations
Description: Over 10 million pretrial detainees pass through our nation’s jails, a majority suffer from substance use disorders and many of those individuals have an opioid use disorder. During the period an individual with a substance use disorder is awaiting trial for a drug-related crime, they are often in dire need of detox services and addiction treatment. Drug court sentences and pre-trial diversion programs help address this need, and treatment options can include medication assisted treatment (MAT). Specific diversion programs have been implemented a several county jails already and have been instrumental treating individuals with opioid use disorders and allowing diversion from long-term sentencing. This webinar will discuss the importance and need for pretrial treatment programs and highlight county corrections departments who have successfully installed MAT options as part of the programming.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand the importance of pretrial diversion for individuals with opioid use disorders  
  • Identify treatment options, specifically medication assisted treatment, for pretrial diversion programs  
  • Explain the types of programming that make for a successful pretrial program, including peer-led programming and therapeutic communities  
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: March 21, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Perspectives: Mental Health Concerns for RSAT Programs & Participants
Description: Many individuals incarcerated for substance use related crimes also suffer from a mental health disorder, and many of those are undiagnosed at the time of incarceration. This month’s webinar will address concerns for RSAT programs regarding mental health and approaches that can be taken to better understand these diagnoses. Supporting inmates with co-occurring disorders (COD’s) is a challenging endeavor any RSAT program. Furthermore, individuals with COD’s are more likely to face challenges post-incarceration, such as homelessness, relapse and recidivism. Recognizing these challenges can help program staff better support and treat their clients, so the clients are better prepared for re-entry.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Understand how to prioritize substance abuse treatment goals for clients with mental health disorders  
  • Identify RSAT clients with mental health needs 
  • Recognize specific drugs of abuse that affect mental health disorders and medications that support recovery  
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: February 21, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Lisa Talbot Lundrigan & Steve Valle
Title of Presentation: Staff Burnout
Description: Professional burnout rates among both human service and correctional staff members are significantly higher than in many other professions. In this webinar we will identify some of the most common signs and symptoms of burnout, explore some of the factors that are most predictive of burnout, and discuss strategies for minimizing the risk of burnout. At the conclusion of the webinar each participant will have a template for a self-care and supervision plan that can be completed individually and used in his or her individual program.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify at least three common indicators of burnout and at least three characteristics of the correctional setting that contribute to burnout.
  • Recognize at least three characteristics of justice-involved individuals that are likely to increase the likelihood of burnout in criminal justice settings.
  • Create at least three strategies for lowering the risk of burnout.
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: January 17, 2018 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Phillip Barbour
Title of Presentation: Winners' Circle: Peer Support Groups
Description: Winners’ Circles are peer support groups, originating from the Therapeutic Community Model (TC) for formerly incarcerated men and women who are in recovery from addiction and are in the process of restoring their citizenship. The webinar outlines the purpose, structure, and implementation of forming such a community-based support group, with a focus on facilitation and building the Winners Circle network. Here, recovering ex-offenders "walk the walk" in leading crime-free and drug-free lives through community meetings and activities. Membership is open to formerly incarcerated individuals as well as their families, friends, and allies. The only criteria are a desire to participate in one’s own healing and recovery and to aid in that of others by providing encouragement and support.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Develop a low-cost, sustainable recovery support system in a community especially where treatment resources may not be readily available.
  • Understand how to become a Facilitator for Winners’ Circle groups.
  • Empower participants and promote "peer coaching" and recovery through best practices.
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: December 20, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Linda Frazier
Title of Presentation: Marijuana Legalization: Potential Implications for Criminal Justice and RSAT Programming
Description: This month’s webinar will focus on the effect marijuana legalization will have on criminal justice. Currently 29 states and the District of Columbia have legalized cannabis for recreational use. What impact will recreational marijuana legalization have on Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) programming? Because legalization is relatively new, and policy and regulations are evolving, broad generalizations about the impact on criminal justice, law enforcement and RSAT programs are difficult to identify at this point in time. This presentation will provide an overview of marijuana legalization with a preliminary analysis/overview of the anticipated effects on criminal justice and RSAT programming.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify key issues, concerns related to the impact cannabis legalization is having in states that have legalized medical and recreational cannabis markets.
  • Explain the importance of surveillance data collection and analysis in monitoring and responding to emerging issues.
  • Describe three key areas of potential impact on criminal justice, law enforcement, and prison based programs related to cannabis legalization.
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: November 29, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Andrew Klein
Title of Presentation: HIV, AIDS and RSAT
Description: Substance abuse negatively impacts HIV/AIDS outcomes and multiplies a person’s risk for HIV infection nearly 12 times. The adverse impact of untreated substance use disorders on the criminal justice system and the prevalence of HIV among incarcerated populations make it critical to integrate knowledge about HIV detection and prevention into RSAT programs. RSAT staff are in an ideal position to respond to both epidemics, coordinating substance use & mental health treatment, medical care, case management, and support as well as transitional planning and reentry referrals. The rate of HIV among prisoners is 5 to 7 times that of the general population, and most people who enter jail/prison already infected. This webinar will explore the prevalence of HIV and AIDS and how it can be addressed, tested and treated within RSAT programming.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Develop increased awareness of relationship between HIV infection and substance use in correctional settings.
  • Define strategies for delivery of specialized care coordination for infected individuals enrolled in RSAT programs.
  • Understand preventing HIV infections or transmission among RSAT clients both inside and outside correctional institutions.
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: October 25, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues in Offender Treatment: Professional Boundaries
Description: This month’s webinar will focus on ethical issues related to professional boundaries are among the most problematic and challenging. Although some issues may seem cut and dry in a correctional setting, others may fall into the “gray area” depending on one’s role/job description. This training will provide an awareness and understanding of professional boundaries – what are they and why they are important. It will introduce participants to the concept of the Power Differential and how it impacts the relationships between all RSAT Program staff and their community members. It will review various slippery slope scenarios that highlight compromised boundaries and will provide participants responses they can call upon if they are in danger of crossing a professional boundary within their program.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify at least three warning signs that boundaries may be at risk of being crossed/compromised.
  • Explain three types of professional boundaries and their relevance when working with justice involved individuals.
  • Develop a plan of action if boundaries are in danger of becoming unprofessional/boundaries have been crossed.
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: September 27, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Lisa Talbot Lundrigan, Steve Valle & Frank Cousins
Title of Presentation: Clinical Supervision
Description:This month’s webinar will focus on clinical supervision within a corrections department. A panel of professionals with both behavioral health and corrections backgrounds will discuss the importance of clinical supervision and training of corrections officers, particularly in RSAT programs, and the impact it can have on staff burnout rates. The shared vision and collaboration between a vendor and a correctional leader creates the necessary conditions for truly exemplary and innovative programs. Lisa Talbot Lundrigan will moderate a discussion with panelists highlighted by Dr. Steve Valle, President of AdCare Criminal Justice Services, and Frank Cousins, Former Essex County (MA) Sherriff.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Explain the importance of clinical supervision for RSAT program staff.
  • Provide training ideas to further educate treatment and corrections staff on how address the needs of inmates with substance use disorders.
  • Develop strategies for creating a collaborative relationship between clinical staff and corrections officers to provide a healthy environment for inmates.
Click HERE to view a recording of this presentation
Click HERE to download the PowerPoint for this presentation


Date: August 30, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Ben Ekelund
Title of Presentation: Role of a Corrections Officer in Jail/Prison SUD Programming
Description: The purpose of the Role of a Corrections Officer in Jail/Prison SUD Programming Webinar is to enhance correctional officers understanding of RSAT programs and their role in contributing to the goals and objectives of the RSAT program, namely breaking the cycle of drug use and contributing to public safety by releasing justice-involved individuals who are poised to maintain their recovery when returned to the community. Correctional officers play a key role in the oversight and operations of corrections-based SUD programming but often times are not made aware of the concepts around forming corrections-based therapeutic communities and how this differs from other corrections facilities containing general population inmates.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Explain the role of correctional officers in RSAT programs to facilitate and reinforce RSAT treatment objectives
  • Provide guidelines on what a correctional officer’s role should be, including sanctioning and rewarding behaviors of participants
  • Propose strategies for encouraging collaboration between treatment and correctional officer staffs
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 
 

 
Date: July 19, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: James Steyee
Title of Presentation: RSAT Performance Measures
Description: The purpose of the RSAT program is to provide assistance to state and local correctional and detention facilities developing and implementing substance abuse treatment programs within their systems. This webinar will cover several topics related to the data collected used to assess performance on Residential Substance Abuse Treatment programs funded by the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA). This webinar will cover an overview of what the statistics reveal about RSAT programs. These topics will include performance measures, such as completion rates of various programs, utilization of evidence-based screening and treatment programs, and a review of data categories where RSAT programs need to make improvements. Additionally, this webinar will discuss how performance measures are used by the Bureau of Justice Assistance and the purpose they serve.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify pharmaceutical and illicit opioids that have affected our communities and medications used for treatment
  • Describe various performance measures the data categories being assessed
  • Understand the purpose of performance measures and how they benefit the future implementation of RSAT programs
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 


 
Date: June 21, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: The Anatomy of an Epidemic: How did we end up here?
Description: This month’s webinar examines historical trends in U.S. opioid use, sentinel events, important laws and regulatory measures, and recent changes in prescribing practices. It unpacks the unique factors that have resulted in an unfolding tragedy that continues to devastate communities and families. It highlights the impact of pharmaceutical and illicit opioids such as fentanyl and fentanyl analogues, as well as successful and failed mitigation strategies. It explains the neurological adaptations that accompany habitual opioid use, the pharmacokinetics of each medication used for treatment, and research on effectiveness. Lastly, it highlights the paradigm shift taking place in the U.S., adoption of internationally accepted harm/risk reduction approaches and introduces a variety of resources.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify pharmaceutical and illicit opioids that have affected our communities and medications used for treatment
  • Describe how the opioid epidemic has impacted change in laws and regulations
  • Understand the adoption of harm reduction approaches and what strategies have been implemented successfully
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 


 
Date: May 17, 2017 2:00 PM ET 
Presenter: Maureen McDonnell
Title of Presentation: Post-Release Substance Use Disorder Treatment - The Role of Insurance in Creating Access to Care
Description: This month’s webinar explores the need for substance use disorder treatment post-release and the insurance coverage necessary to receive it. More than 700,000 men and women leave prison and return to the community each year in the US. More than 60% have substance use disorders requiring treatment. Without needed services in the community, many will return to use. Death due to drug overdose is not uncommon in the weeks after release. One barrier to accessing necessary community services is lack of funding.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe how community substance use disorder treatment is paid for today and what major forms of public and private insurance are accessible
  • Identify how RSAT programs can help people gain insurance coverage prior to release
  • Understand how federal funds from the 21st Century CURES Act and the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA) advance community treatment services
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: April 19, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Phillip Barbour
Title of Presentation: Treatment Modalities
Description: This month’s webinar explores several evidenced based treatment modalities, many you have heard of, but some maybe not. These approaches to treatment for SUD, Mental Health, and Trauma have proven to be effective in reducing negative behaviors (i.e. drug use, angry outburst, criminality, etc.) and are widely used in both criminal justice programs and the public sector. Due to the wealth of research and development of new treatment approaches, this webinar only scratches the surface of what is available. You are encouraged to explore the resources provided at the end of this presentation for additional information.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe the most popular evidence-based treatment modalities for SUD and mental health disorders
  • Understand why certain modalities are more effective than others for the criminal justice population
  • Identify the main characteristics of cognitive behavior therapy
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: March 15, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation:  RSAT Design, Implementation, and Outcomes: Components of Program Success
Description: This presentation applies the RSAT Promising Practices Guidelines to a discussion of program design and implementation, and includes updates on relevant outcome research. Justice professionals working in addiction treatment programs in custody settings face many of the same challenges that their counterparts in the community face. This webinar is aimed at reviewing the program components and practices that work best with the population RSAT programs serve. It also examines the research on target outcomes and looks at ways programs define treatment ‘success.’

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Summarize the two overarching mandates that guide RSAT program design.
  • List at least two target outcomes that RSAT programs prioritize
  • Identify three program components that can enhance the effectiveness of RSAT
  • Name one or more steps RSAT programs take to ensure implementation fidelity
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: February 15, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: The Risk-Need-Responsivity Model of Assessing Justice Involved Clients
Description: Ensuring public safety by reducing criminal behaviors can best be achieved by providing justice involved clients with services that match their level of risk as well as addressing their criminogenic needs. More effective correctional programs follow a cognitive behavioral and social learning approach. In addition, programs that address specific responsivity issues that take into account individual factors that might influence the effectiveness of treatment services are correlated with better outcomes as well. Current research documents significant reduction in recidivism when the principles of risk, need and responsivity are adhered to in criminal justice programming. But how do correctional professionals determine a client’s risk level, treatment needs and the best way to deliver services?

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Learn the role of intake, screening and assessment in the identification of service and treatment need.
  • Receive a review of the Risk–Need–Responsivity (RNR) Model and understand the role of the RNR Model in the development of offender assessment instruments.
  • Identify the connection between offender assessment, treatment planning and provision of services.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: January 18, 2017 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Lisa Talbot Lundrigan
Title of Presentation: Building Better Programs for Justice-Involved Women
Description: Despite a steady and dramatic rise in the number of justice-involved women over the last several decades, most correctional and criminal justice systems are still built, staffed, and operated according to the norms that were established for male-only correctional facilities/criminal justice systems. Even institutions that exclusively house women have frequently struggled to "retro-fit" their operations to a female population. Our panelists for this webinar will discuss some of their challenges and successes in providing program services to women, from assessment through treatment and discharge planning and into reentry. They are each offering programming within a distinct setting, corresponding to a distinct point of contact with the criminal justice system within the Essex County Sheriff's Department, located in Massachusetts. We will explore some of the needs frequently associated with women's treatment, including co-occurring disorders, trauma, PTSD, safety in relationships, and some methods of engaging justice-involved women as full partners in their treatment process. We will also discuss ways in which women's justice-based treatment programs can be optimally managed in partnership with care and custody staff and other justice-system stakeholders.

Panelists: 
  • Michelle Alsup, Regional Manager, ACJS, Essex County
  • Tommie Bower, Senior Clinician, ACJS-Essex County Sheriff's Department Women in Transition program
  • Janine Belliti, Senior Clinician, ACJS-Essex County Sheriff's Department Detox programs

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify two ways in which standard risk/needs assessment is not a fully accurate reflection of women's risk level and identify at least one risk/needs assessment tool that is gender responsive.
  • Identify at least two need areas which data suggest are more prevalent for justice-involved women than for men.
  • Identify at least two trauma-informed approaches that can be implemented within the criminal justice system.
  • Identify at least two evidence-based resources for planning and implements gender responsive programs.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: December 21, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Kendra Jochum
Title of Presentation: Supporting Offender Reentry Through Tablet Technology
Description: Offenders have a wide range of individual reentry needs that present with an even broader complexity of varying length of time in custody, recidivism risks, and personal readiness for change. Staffing capacity and related facility based resources often do not match the demonstrated needs of the population, and in turn new efficiencies and service strategies are needed. While tablet technology has established a role within correctional education classrooms, such strategies can also be a central tool used within inmate programs and individual reentry case management services. Tablet technology extends the service reach of reentry staff by providing important information, resources, and skill development modules directly to individual inmates. This increased access to services and information is a critical benefit as limited reentry staff resources cannot reach the full scope of needs and complexities of the entire custodial population. This webinar will discuss the Reentry Tablet Program at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility and how it has created a new foundation of contemporary corrections through bridging technology with reentry services and inmate programs within a maximum- security setting.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Discuss challenges of offender reentry and identify at least five evidence base service strategies.
  • Describe the Reentry Tablet Program and at least five benefits of using tablet technology to support offender reentry.
  • Detail at least five considerations for tablet implementation.
  • Identify at least five security features of tablet technology to meet standards within maximum security settings.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: November 16, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Andrew Klein
Title of Presentation: WRAP: A Problem Solving Therapy for RSAT Clients with Co-Occurring Disorders
Description: This webinar will discuss an evidence-based program called Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP). WRAP provides an example of a Problem Solving Therapy (PST) that can help RSAT clients organize lists of wellness tools that help them feel better in response to mental health difficulties; it can also be utilized to prevent the onset of such difficulties. WRAP assists in the creation, in advance, of directives to guide clinicians and other supporters how best to intervene when clients can’t act appropriately on their own behalf. WRAP also helps in the development of individualized post-crisis plans to promote return to wellness. 

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify five activities found in a common wellness tool box.
  • List at least five feelings that can be used to define what a person may feel like when he or she is well and five things to do each day to continue to feel well.
  • Discuss five subtle internal changes that may indicate further action is needed to stay well as well as five things that indicate things have broken down. 
  • Identify five things that can be done when things are breaking down. 
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: October 19, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Pathways to Health Literacy and Health Care Utilization: A Critical Next Step for the Newly Eligible Pre-release Population
Description: Justice-involved populations are starting to reap the benefits of expanded access to health coverage and care for both physical and behavioral health conditions. Recent studies confirm the advantages that health and justice policy makers have predicted since health reform began. Many states and jurisdictions have successfully implemented pathways to enrollment upon release for eligible individuals. However, the real impact these opportunities have on re-entry success and rehabilitation depends on effectively identifying those eligible for coverage, educating and informing them about using their benefits, and helping them navigate the complexities of the health care system. This webinar discusses strategies and resources that promote health and insurance literacy and help newly covered individuals overcome the barriers to utilization they experience. It will focus on how justice professionals can leverage a number of dedicated resources and the supports available to re-entering individuals to help them access appropriate health care services.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Disseminate at least one source of information to RSAT clients that explains the basics of the health care system in understandable terms.
  • Locate and refer RSAT clients to enrollment assistance programs and navigators in local communities that help newly covered individuals make full use of benefits and other health care resources.
  • Identify at least two options that support access to health services for individuals who are not eligible for Medicaid or other public benefit programs.
  • Discuss at least one model of successful collaboration with community health programs that targets the re-entry population.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

Handout 1 - PAPs and Health Literary Resources
Handout 2 - Toolkit for Justice Professionals

 
Date: September 21, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Gabrielle de la Guéronnière
Title of Presentation: Federal Update: Regulatory Developments Important to Accessing SUD Care
Description: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has recently issued final regulations and guidances in a number of key areas. They include people in the criminal justice system, Medicaid managed care, residential SUD treatment, raising the buprenorphine prescriber cap, and proposed changes to Federal confidentiality laws. Tune in and hear an update on how changes in Federal regulations will affect treatment in both residential and outpatient settings.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List three new CMS provisions regarding incarcerated people being screened for Medicaid eligibility and enrolled in coverage.
  • Identify five categories of justice-involved individuals who are eligible for covered Medicaid services.
  • Name four ways continuity of coverage and care for people is being strengthened in the criminal justice system.
  • List four recent and potential upcoming Congressional or Federal agency activities that will impact addiction treatment.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: August 17, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues in Offender Treatment: Professional Boundaries
Description: Ethical issues related to professional boundaries are among the most problematic and challenging. Although some issues may seem cut and dried in a correctional setting, others may fall into the “gray area” depending on one’s role / job description. This training will provide an awareness and understanding of professional boundaries – what are they and why they are important. It will introduce participants to the concept of the Power Differential and how it impacts the relationships between all RSAT Program staff and community members. It will review various slippery slope scenarios that highlight compromised boundaries and will provide participants responses they can call upon if they are in danger of crossing a professional boundary within their program.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define the concept of “power differential”.
  • Identify three types of professional boundaries and their relevance to offender treatment.
  • List at least three warning signs that boundaries may be at risk of being crossed / compromised.
  • Develop a plan of action if boundaries are in danger of becoming unprofessional / boundaries have been crossed.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.  
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: July 20, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - Insights & Tools for Justice Professionals (Part 2)
Description: Distinctive features set CBT apart from therapeutic options that preceded it: time limited, present-day, solution focused. CBT employs a directive approach driven by prioritized client-centered needs. CBT characteristics and outcomes continue to expand its popularity and widen its application, especially to criminal justice populations.

Part 2 of this two-part webinar reviews CBT techniques and useful tools applicable to criminal justice programming and addiction treatment (included as Part I “homework” materials). Participants will explore CBT practice and implementation specifics.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Explain at least one example of a CBT tool and explain how it is used in practice.
  • List two approaches that are not appropriate for use during CBT sessions.
  • Name two delivery elements associated with effective CBT group interventions.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.  
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

Handout 1 - Cocaine Refusal Skills
Handout 2 - Functional Analysis
Handout 3 - Real Life Practice for Coping With Cravings
Handout 4 - Real Life Practice Exercise for Anger Management

 
Date: June 15, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - Insights & Tools for Justice Professionals (Part I)
Description: Distinctive features set CBT apart from therapeutic options that preceded it: time limited, present-day, solution focused. CBT employs a directive approach driven by prioritized client-centered needs. CBT characteristics and outcomes continue to expand its popularity and widen its application, especially to criminal justice populations.

Part I of this two-part webinar emphasizes CBT’s central unique elements and the components critical to success. The presentation highlights outcome research and practices from areas where CBT has proven particularly beneficial. Handouts include examples for participants to review in preparation for the next webinar.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify at least three key elements that define all CBT interventions.
  • Name at least two approaches compatible with CBT.
  • Give three examples of evidence-based CBT interventions for substance abuse and/or rehabilitation
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.  
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

Handout 1 - Cocaine Refusal Skills
Handout 2 - Functional Analysis
Handout 3 - Real Life Practice for Coping With Cravings
Handout 4 - Real Life Practice Exercise for Anger Management

 
Date: May 18, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Roberta C. Churchill
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues in Offender Treatment: Professional Boundaries
Description: Ethical issues related to professional boundaries are among the most problematic and challenging. Although some issues may seem cut and dried in a correctional setting, others may fall into the “gray area” depending on one’s role / job description. This training will provide an awareness and understanding of professional boundaries – what are they and why they are important. It will introduce participants to the concept of the Power Differential and how it impacts the relationships between all RSAT Program staff and community members. It will review various slippery slope scenarios that highlight compromised boundaries and will provide participants responses they can call upon if they are in danger of crossing a professional boundary within their program. 

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define the concept of “power differential”.
  • Identify three types of professional boundaries and their relevance to offender treatment. 
  • List at least three warning signs that boundaries may be at risk of being crossed / compromised.
  • Develop a plan of action if boundaries are in danger of becoming unprofessional / boundaries have been crossed. 
 
Date: April 20, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Andrew Klein & Lisa Talbot Lundrigan
Title of Presentation: Treating Men with Substance Use Disorders
Description: This webinar will focus on the special challenges in treating male inmates. Specifically, it will focus on the role their self-definitions of masculinity plays in substance abuse treatment. Masculinity ideologies not only affect how many males think and feel about themselves but influence how they behave. If not considered by therapists, it may compromise the RSAT substance abuse treatment program. 

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List at least three of the major characteristics of masculinity that may influence treatment of male substance abusers.
  • Identify two strategies to address any challenges raised by these characteristics.
  • In addition to masculinity, identify another major issue that should be part of assessing male clients. 
Click here to view part I (45 min.) of this presentation. 
Click here to view part II (15 min.) of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint of this presentation.  

 
Date: March 16, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Debra A. Pinals, M.D.
Title of Presentation: Taking the Next Steps toward Integrated Recidivism Reduction and Treatment Planning for Individuals with Co-Occurring Disorders
Description: This webinar will discuss criminogenic risk and needs and behavioral health, as well as best practices for the integration of information about criminogenic risk, substance use, and mental disorders into treatment plans. Innovative programs, such as MISSION-Criminal Justice, will be highlighted as one example of a framework for behavioral health reentry programming that has aimed to address criminogenic risk factors with a behavioral health and trauma-informed lens. We will present case vignettes to help participants gain a better understanding of these developments in correctional contexts.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe 8 criminogenic risk factors and basic strategies to address them in treatment planning.
  • Describe at least 2 responsivity factors that can be targeted to help individuals adhere to correctional programming.
  • Describe 2 positive strategies to utilize in development of informed treatment planning especially where mental health and substance use treatment needs co-occur.
  • Delineate 3 ways trauma and mental illness can impact success and engagement in substance use treatment planning.
Click here to view a recording of this webinar. 
Click here to downoad a PowerPoint of this presentation.
 
 
Date: February 17, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Phillip Barbour
Title of Presentation: TCU Mapping-Enhanced Counseling (TMEC)
Description: This webinar will introduce you to TCU Mapping-Enhanced Counseling (TMEC) and show you some ideas about how to use it. The TCU/IBR Website (www.ibr.tcu.edu) contains the references, abstracts and other free downloadable manuals that will help you incorporate TMEC into your program. TMEC evolved from earlier work on graphic representation to improve the communication and thinking of teachers and students. The success of visual approaches, in particular node-link mapping, in education led to applications in counseling starting in 1989.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Name the three categories of maps.
  • List the two major functions of mapping enhanced counseling.
  • Identify at least three of the mapping manuals available from the TCU website. 
Click here to view a recording of this webinar. 
Click here to downoad a PowerPoint of this presentation. 

 
Date: January 20, 2016 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Dennis Reilly & Sarah Wurzburg
Title of Presentation: Mobilizing Federal Resources, Collaborating with Other BJA Grantees
Description: RSAT programs continue to struggle to find funding and resources for even the most evidence-based, well run RSAT programs in prisons and jails. Therefore, it is in their interest to collaborate with other BJA funded programs where possible to mutually enhance their services. The Center for Court Innovation is the training/technical assistance provider for drug courts, whose services often dovetail with those of RSAT programs. The Council of State Governments CSG) Justice Center in partnership with the Bureau of Justice Assistance runs the National Reentry Resource Center, which provides user friendly information on substance use and mental disorders. The CSG Justice Center is the technical assistance and training provider for the Second Chance Act and the Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program. Hear from representatives from both BJA funded programs as to how their services might coordinate with those of RSAT programs.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Name four ways the Center for Court Innovation works with state drug courts
  • List three potential areas of collaboration with drug courts
  • Name four activities the Second Chance Act funds
  • List four types of Second Chance Act grant programs
Click here to view a recording of this webinar.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation.

 
Date: December 16, 2015 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Colleen Stoner, Rosa Lazenby, Greg Gonzales
Title of Presentation: Implementation and Impact of the Evidence-based Correctional Program Checklist in California RSAT Projects
Description: Assessing program effectiveness can be challenging. California is using the Evidence-based Correctional Program Checklist (CPC) to help local RSAT projects assess how closely their programs follow known principles of effective intervention. This information helps projects identify the strengths and weaknesses of their programs and provides recommendations for improving the integrity of a program and increasing effectiveness. This webinar will describe the process by which the California Board of State and Community Corrections implemented the CPC assessment tool with local projects, identify the impact the CPC assessment has had on increasing the effectiveness of RSAT projects, and provide firsthand feedback from local projects that were assessed using this assessment tool.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify the five domains measured through the CPC
  • Identify the implementation process for assessing projects with the CPC
  • List five benefits to projects that have been assessed with the CPC 
  • List two obstacles or challenges experienced by projects that have been assessed with the CPC 
Click here to download a recording of this webinar.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation.

 
Date: November 18, 2015, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Mary Lou Leary and Melinda Campopiano
Title of Presentation: Federal Drug Policy for the 21st Century
Description: Deputy Director Leary and Dr. Campopiano will offer a national perspective about the Obama Administration’s 21st Century approach to drug policy regarding opioid use disorders and overdose. With the alarming uptick in opioid overdose deaths and the high rate of overdose deaths among those reentering the community, this webinar will address the importance of having a comprehensive community approach to opioid use disorders; this includes medication assisted treatment (MAT), overdose prevention, and continuity of care. The effect opioids have on the brain and the different types of MAT will also be reviewed.

Click here to download a recording of this webinar.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation.

 
Date: October 21, 2015, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Tim Greathouse
Title of Presentation: Secure Connected Tablet Solution to Enhance Educational Opportunities Behind Bars
Description: This webinar will focus on the implementation of educational technology in a safe and secure manner in an Indiana Department of Correction facility. We will discuss programming and how technology has been used to enhance services and opportunities for inmates. Emphasis will be place on security of the device and systems in place to prevent unwanted access or communication.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List three features that make tablets a security delivery vehicle.
  • Describe four advantages of using tablets in a correctional setting.
  • Identify three correctional programs that would profit by the use of tablets.
  • List three benefits of the “Virtual Classroom”.
Click here to download a recording of this webinar.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation.

 
Date: September 16, 2015, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Christopher Mitchell, Mark Waitkevich, Earl Warren
Title of Presentation: Medication Assisted Treatment: Changing Correctional Paradigms
Description: This webinar will describe the processes employed by the Massachusetts Department of Corrections in implementing its Medication Assisted Reentry Initiative (MATRI). Attendees will learn about the best practices used in developing the program, engaging stakeholders and community programs, and overcoming obstacles such as bias, funding, and correctional culture. Attendees will also see the results and outcomes of this program after one year of operation.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe the three basic components of a correctional MAT program for re-entering inmates.
  • List the three FDA approved medications for opioid use disorder. 
  • Identify at least one risk or obstacle to using medication assisted treatment in a correctional facility. 
Click here to download a recording of this webinar.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation.

 
Date: August 19, 2015, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Kristin Stainbrook
Title of Presentation: RSAT Reentry Challenges
Description: Research indicates that effective substance abuse treatment programs include an aftercare component. There is no single definition of aftercare, but common components include: relapse prevention and continued treatment and/or peer support, combined with other health and human services that promote a stable lifestyle. The evidence also suggests that aftercare is critical immediately after release from prison or jail, and that it is beneficial to concentrate resources during this period, when individuals are most likely to commit new crimes or to violate the conditions of their supervision. This webinar will present some early findings on the types of aftercare services funded by RSAT, from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) - funded Residential Substance Abuse Treatment (RSAT) Study. The presentation will describe the sample of RSAT-funded aftercare programs and present preliminary data on program services, challenges, and innovations.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define the general purpose of aftercare programs.
  • Describe at least three typical components of aftercare programs. 
  • Identify three common challenges to providing transitional/aftercare supports.
  • List at least three approaches that could strengthen aftercare service strategies.
Click here to download a recording of this webinar.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: July 8, 2015, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Darby Penney
Title of Presentation: Trauma-Informed Approaches to Substance Abuse Treatment in Criminal Justice Settings
Description: While the vast majority of people with substance abuse histories are trauma survivors, implementing trauma-informed approaches with inmates receiving services in criminal justice settings is extremely challenging. For example, the ability to exercise control over one’s life is key to healing from trauma, but the realities of correctional institutions make this difficult. This presentation will provide an overview of trauma and its impact, and will discuss the prevalence of trauma among people with substance abuse diagnoses and criminal justice involvement. It will describe the hallmarks of trauma-informed approaches to service delivery, and examine ways that these practices can be adapted for implementation in criminal justice settings.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Enumerate three characteristics that are part of the definition of “trauma.”
  • Describe three ways that the experience of trauma may affect the health of trauma survivors.
  • Describe three principles of trauma-informed approaches.
  • Discuss two ways in which trauma-informed approaches can be adapted for implementation in correctional settings.
Click here to dowload a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download a PDF of this presentation. 
Click here to download Manualized Trauma-Specific Treatment Handout. 
Click here to download Hawaii Program Brief. 

 
Date: June 17, 2015, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues in Offender Treatment: Ethical Dilemmas and Tools for Working Through Them
Description: Eventually, a correctional professional will face an ethical dilemma – a situation where they are unsure of the right thing to do. Many times, there IS no obvious right or wrong decision to make. However, there are many tools that can help people work through difficult situations and come to a decision they can live with. Several of these tools will be reviewed in this webinar as well as several scenarios that provide ethical dilemmas that people working in the criminal justice system are apt to face. This webinar will also review some basic ethical principles for RSAT Program staff to consider and keep in mind while doing such important work.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Provide the definition of “ethical dilemma”.
  • Describe the six Ethical Principles for Treatment Professionals.
  • Identify at least three tools of decision making to help with ethical dilemmas.
  • Describe one tool of decision making in detail.
Click here to download the recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the slides used for this presentation.

 
Date: May 20, 2015, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Viral Hepatitis Among Inmate Populations: Detection, Prevention, and New Hepatitis C Treatment Options 
Description: The prevalence of viral hepatitis among prison and jail inmates is substantially higher than that of the general population. Hepatitis C infection is particularly common among prison inmates with a history of drug use. An estimated 16%–41% of prison inmates have ever been infected with HCV and 12%–35% are chronically infected, compared to 1%–1.5% of the general population. This webinar offers vital information about measures that can prevent the spread of viral hepatitis and protect correctional staff from exposure. It also includes information and resources for helping at-risk RSAT clients access testing and treatment during institutional stays and upon release. 

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Name the two types of hepatitis that are prevalent among inmate populations.
  • List three risk factors associated with Hepatitis C infection.
  • Discuss three reasons to encourage RSAT clients to be tested for viral hepatitis.
  • Identify at least two resources where justice professionals can learn more about Hep C and measures to help reduce its spread. 
Click here to download the slides used for this presentation.
Click here for a handout on Hepatitis C & Incarceration referenced in the webinar.

 
Date: March 18, 2015, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Andrew Klein
Title of Presentation: Medication Assisted Treatment & Reentry
Description: This webinar will describe the concept of medication assisted treatment and its effectiveness when combined with counseling, behavioral therapies, and aftercare. Attendees will learn about the most effective medications currently available and how MAT is being utilized at one RSAT program.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List the three FDA approved medications for opioid use disorder and the three for alcohol use disorder.
  • Identify at least one benefit of MAT as a supplement to other treatment modalities as well as at least one specific challenge and risk posed by each medication. 
  • Describe the three basic components of a correctional MAT program for re-entering inmates, including linkage to community aftercare.  

Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation. 

 
Date: February 18, 2015, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Redonna K. Chandler
Title of Presentation: The Neurobiology of Addiction and Effective Treatment
Description: This webinar will provide an overview of the scientific basis for viewing drug addiction as a disease that affects the brain and behavior. Evidence-based interventions and principles for addressing substance use disorders, including psychosocial treatments and medications will be discussed.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List the three factors involved in the definition of addiction.
  • Identify three functions of the dopamine system that play a role in the development of addiction.
  • List three evidence-based drug treatment interventions for adults in the criminal justice system. 
  • Identify three non-evidence-based practices traditionally used with adults in the criminal justice system for substance use.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation.

 
Date: January 21, 2015, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Victor Ortiz, MSW
Title of Presentation: Problem Gambling: The Hidden Addiction (Part 2)
Description: Part 2 of this webinar will focus on identifying, assessing, and treating gambling disorders. We will introduce various screening tools, review best practices, and treatment trends. The webinar will highlight a guest speaker who will provide firsthand experience on the issues related to gambling.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List two theories of gambling addiction.
  • Identify two treatment best practice approaches to gambling disorders.
  • List two screening tools used to identify gambling disorders.
  • Identify three common triggers experienced by problem gamblers in recovery.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.

 
Date: December 17, 2014, 2:00 PM ET
Presenter: Victor Ortiz, MSW
Title of Presentation: Problem Gambling: The Hidden Addiction (Part 1)
Description: This webinar is aimed at identifying the relationship of problem gambling and addiction, as well as effective strategies in integrating problem gambling services. The training is aimed at exploring the new diagnostic criteria of Gambling Disorders, as well as explore the challenges and opportunities within the correctional system. This webinar will identify strategies for managing treatment barriers, as well as explore best practices.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify three factors in the association of gambling disorders with other addictive and mental health disorders.
  • Describe four risk factors associated with gambling disorders.
  • List three DSM-5 criteria for gambling disorders.
  • Identify two effective steps in establishing integrated systems of care.
  • List two resources on gambling treatment. 
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.

 
Date: November 19, 2014, 2:00 PM ET
Presenters: Darcy Edwards, Robyn Feese
Title of Presentation: Implementing Evidence-Based Practices for RSAT Programs
Description: This webinar will share methods the Nevada Department of Corrections used to implement some of the evidence-based practices for RSAT Programs.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Discuss a dynamic risk/needs assessment system that can be used with offenders at any point in the criminal justice system.
  • List at least two practical ways to enhance intrinsic motivation.
  • List at least three issues that are critical to any cognitive-behavioral curriculum.
  • List at least two practical quality assurance methods.
  • List at least one instrument that can be used to measure offender change.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.

 
Date: October 15, 2014, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenters: Andrew Klein
Title of Presentation: Evidence-Based Practice (Part 2)
Description: This webinar is part 2 of a 2-part series defining what is evidence-based practice. The eight principles for effective evidence-based intervention will be discussed in depth. We will list and talk about five qualities an organization must have in order to implement evidence-based practice. There will also be discussion about how an agency should find and then choose an evidenced-based program. Attendees who didn’t attend Part 1 can listen to it and download the PowerPoint at: http://www.rsat-tta.com/Webinars/Archived-Webinars.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify the eight principles for effective evidence-based intervention.
  • List five qualities an organization must have in order to implement evidence-based practice.
  • Identify five criteria an agency should utilize when choosing an evidence-based program.
  • List three requirements for an agency to successfully implement a new evidence-based program. 
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.  
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.

 
Date: September 17, 2014, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenters: Andrew Klein
Title of Presentation: Evidence-Based Practice (Part 1)
Description: This webinar will define evidence-based practice, focusing on the fact that it requires more than the adoption of one or more evidence-based programs. Such programs must be implemented not only with fidelity to the specific components of the programs as validated by the research, but they must be embedded in an environment that is consistent with evidence-based practices.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify four major challenges that must be met to incorporate an evidence-based treatment program into their correctional facility.
  • Identify three national sources where they can find evidence-based programs for substance abuse treatment.
  • Identify five common and widely use practices that will not promote evidence-based practices.
  • Determine whether or not their RSAT program is engaging in evidence-based practices
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.

 
Date: August 20, 2014, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenters: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Vicarious Trauma and Self-Care

Description: Criminal justice workers often assist people who have been victimized and this work can be extremely challenging. They themselves are sometimes the targets of violence. As a result, they are likely to experience lasting psychological and spiritual changes in the way that they see themselves and the world. Vicarious trauma is the process of change that happens because you work with other people who have been hurt, and feel committed or responsible to help them. Over time this process can lead to changes in your psychological, physical, and spiritual well-being. If you work with criminal justice clientele, it is important to understand the process of vicarious trauma, because it will almost certainly impact you in some way. But that’s not all. It will also impact your family, your organization, and the people you are working to help. This training will provide an awareness and understanding of vicarious trauma, its impact on corrections professionals, their families and their clients. It will help to identify and manage the manifestations of vicarious trauma and review implementation of methods to prevent and/or decrease it in the workplace and within the individual service provider.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List three of the four descriptors of Vicarious Trauma.
  • Identify three manifestations of Vicarious Trauma.
  • List three consequences of Vicarious Trauma.
  • Identify three ways they can protect themselves from experiencing secondary trauma throughout the course of their work.  
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.

 
Date: July 16, 2014, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenters: Phillip Barbour
Title of Presentation: The Winners' Circle Model

Description: Winners' Circles are peer-led support groups for people striving to remain free from past drug use and criminal justice involvement. Winners’ Circles offer safe environments for former offenders to develop healthy lifestyles, learn and practice social skills, address problems that previously led to criminal activity, expand their networks of recovery associates, and offer encouragement and support to others. This presentation highlights the history, structure, and training on starting a Winners' Circle in your community.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify three benefits of starting a Winners’ Circle.
  • Describe how a Winners’ Circle is helpful where treatment services may not be readily available.
  • Identify two ways a Winners’ Circle improves treatment retention and sustained recovery for former offenders.
  • Describe two characteristics of an effective Winners’ Circle recovery support system
Click here to view a recording of this webinar.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 

 
Date: June 18, 2014, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenters: Gabrielle de la Guéronnière 
Title of Presentation: Understanding the Affordable Care Act and the Opportunities the Law Presents for the Criminal Justice System

Description: This presentation will inform participants about the Affordable Care Act’s major opportunities to expand coverage for services and to improve access to care for justice-involved individuals. The presentation will highlight the law’s provisions related to expanding access to substance use disorder and mental health care and will discuss how Medicaid applies to people involved in different parts of the criminal justice system.  Participants will also learn about steps certain jurisdictions have taken to enroll justice-involved people in health insurance and link them to care.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify how Federal Medicaid can pay for an incarcerated individual’s inpatient community-based care.
  • Describe four major requirements of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act.
  • Identify whether the participant’s state is a Medicaid Health Home state.
  • Identify three steps to take to determine which substance use disorder and mental health services are covered through the state Medicaid plan and whether the coverage complies with the requirements of the Federal parity law.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation. 

 
Date: May 21, 2014, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenters: Earl Warren and Jacqueline Chowaniec 
Title of Presentation: Mentoring for Success: Completing the RSAT Continuum of Care

Description: This presentation will provide participants with an inexpensive yet highly effective option for providing aftercare and post-release treatment for RSAT clients. It will describe the model developed by Spectrum Health Systems in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Correction under a Second Chance Act grant program. It is designed to use volunteer peer mentors to bridge the gap between pre-release treatment and coordination of post release services to assist RSAT clients to quickly stabilize in the community. Finally, the webinar will provide outcomes for the peer-mentoring program demonstrating the high rate of client engagement and significant reduction in recidivism.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify four community reintegration risk factors following release from prison.
  • Describe the four essential elements of peer mentoring programs.
  • Describe three strategies used by peer mentors to mitigate criminogenic needs.
  • Identify the three primary roles peer mentors serve in offender community reintegration.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation.

 
Date: April 16, 2014, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenters: RSAT Staff from Barnstable, Berkshire, Middlesex, and Norfolk County Jails 
Title of Presentation: Voices from the Field: Innovations in RSAT Programming (Massachusetts Jail Consortium)

Description: The four Massachusetts programs were selected as Mentor Host Sites for their evidence-based institutional programming.  They are also recognized for their first in the nation adoption of medication assisted treatment as a re-entry component to both prevent drug overdose deaths, all too common among recently released inmates, as well as promote successful long term recovery in the community.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify 2 medications used to treat alcohol addiction.
  • List 2 methods in identifying suicidal inmates.
  • Describe 2 approaches to integrating an RSAT after program into the community.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.  
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.

 
Date: March 19, 2014, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Kenneth Osborne
Title of Presentation: Addressing Father Absence in Substance Abuse Treatment

Description : Among today’s prominent health concerns, father absence underscores a number of child risk and endangerment factors and is identified as a primary feature among many recovering persons, including criminal justice populations. This workshop explores some of the reasons for father absence, the WAR (World of Abnormal Rearing) Cycle of Addiction, and what can be done to address this issue in treatment for offender populations and for those in community settings.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List at least three reasons for father absence
  • Define the "WAR Cycle" of Addiction 
  • Identify four major life areas impacting the World of Abnormal Rearing
  • Be able to list at least three traints of the "man box".
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation. 

 
Date: February 19, 2014, 2:00 PM EST
Presenters:

1) Bartholomew County Community Corrections Center
Rob Gaskill, Director of Residential Services


2) Utah Department of Corrections 

Greg Hendrix, Program Director, Con-Quest 
Clark Holladay, Program Director, Hope


Title of Presentation: Voices from the Field: Innovations in RSAT Programming (Indiana and Utah)

Description #1: Women’s Programming at Bartholomew County Community Corrections Center

The Community Corrections Center in Columbus, Indiana provides therapeutic, residential treatment and case management services to non-violent female offenders who have substance abuse and often co-occurring disorders and a high risk of repetitive criminal behavior. Not only are evidence-based treatment approaches utilized but gender specific programming is emphasized as well. Learn what gender specific programming entails as well as the principles of connecting female offenders coming from an institutional setting to community-based services. 

Description #2: Men’s Programming at Utah State Prison

The Utah Department of Corrections has put in place a continuum of services to address the cognitive, social, behavioral, and vocational needs of their offenders. The program features extensive evidence-based treatment approaches taking into account the effect of trauma and its impact on substance use disorders. Learn about the range and variety of incentives used to reinforce pro-social behavior in the program and the extensive transition program to aid offenders moving back into the community. 

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify four elements of gender specific programming that are beneficial to female offenders.
  • Discuss three evidence-based treatment practices that are geared towards addressing women’s issues. 
  • Describe four rewards offered to offenders as incentives for positive behavior at Utah State Prison.
  • Identify three services provided to offenders at Utah State Prison to ease the transition from incarceration to community living.  
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation. 

 
 
Date:
 January 15, 2014, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues in Offender Treatment: Professional Competence
Description: Treatment professionals have a responsibility to their correctional clients and must be accountable for their welfare and rights. Furthermore, all criminal justice staff have a responsibility to the public, to other professionals, to the agencies and institutions in which they work, and to the counseling / corrections profession. In addition to respecting differences among clients, staff must be competent, respect client autonomy, maintain appropriate boundaries and promote pro-social behavior. This training will review some basic ethical principles for RSAT program staff to consider and will emphasize the understanding and importance of Professional Competence. It will present various scenarios that highlight ethical dilemmas and will provide participants some helpful options from which to choose if they recognize unprofessional or incompetent behaviors in themselves or their colleagues.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define the concept of “power differential”.
  • Describe the six Ethical Principles for Treatment Professionals.
  • List at least three areas of Professional Competence.
  • Develop a plan of action if Professional Competence or any Ethical Principle is in danger of being / has been infringed upon.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.
 
 
Date: December 18, 2013, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Joan Gillece
Title of Presentation: What is Trauma and Why Must We Address it
Description: SAMSHA’s Promoting Alternatives to Seclusion and Restraint through Trauma-Informed Practices promotes trauma-informed practices in the delivery of services to people who have experienced violence and trauma and are seeking support for recovery and healing. This presentation will address the prevalence of trauma and suggest techniques to reduce the likelihood of re-traumatization. Participants will learn what trauma is, how it affects individuals – psychologically, developmentally, and neurobiological. Self-regulation strategies will be explored.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define trauma and explain its effect on the brain.
  • Discuss four strategies to reduce the likelihood of re-traumatization.
  • Describe two ways trauma affects people developmentally, psychologically, and physiologically.
  • Develop two action steps to implement trauma-informed practices in their work.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation. 
 
 
Date: November 20, 2013, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Earl Warren and Jacqueline Chowaniec
Title of Presentation: Mentoring for Success: Completing the RSAT Continuum of Care
Description: This presentation will provide participants with an inexpensive yet highly effective option for providing aftercare and post-release treatment for RSAT clients. It will describe the model developed by Spectrum Health Systems in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Correction under a Second Chance Act grant program. It is designed to use volunteer peer mentors to bridge the gap between pre-release treatment and coordination of post release services to assist RSAT clients to quickly stabilize in the community. Finally, the webinar will provide outcomes for the peer-mentoring program demonstrating the high rate of client engagement and significant reduction in recidivism.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify four community reintegration risk factors following release from prison.
  • Describe the four essential elements of peer mentoring programs.
  • Describe three strategies used by peer mentors to mitigate criminogenic needs.
  • Identify the three primary roles peer mentors serve in offender community reintegration.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation.
 
 
Date: October 16, 2013, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Andrew Klein and Jon Grand
Title of Presentation: Prevalence of Drug Overdose Deaths upon Release from Prisons and Jails
Description: This webinar will provide the latest research on the incidence of drug overdose from inmates immediately upon release from correctional institutions. It will describe post release inmate deaths within the context of the problem of drug overdoses in general. Information will be presented on which inmates are most at risk for drug overdose upon release, why they overdose, and on what drugs. Finally, the webinar will describe counter measures that have been developed to address such drug overdoses, including specifically the role of RSAT programs in this effort.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Cite the three major drugs responsible for drug ODs.
  • List at least four major reasons why inmates are at particular risk for drug overdoses.
  • Name six states with 911 Good Samaritan Laws.
  • List three specific steps RSAT programs can take to reduce post-release ODs.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 
 
 
Date: September 18, 2013, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: PREA Basics: What RSAT Sites Need to Know
Description: This webinar will familiarize participants with the history of the Prison Rape Elimination Act of 2003 (PREA). Since the passage of the federal law, implementation efforts have focused on developing standards at the national level and policies at the state and local levels. PREA law was universally supported by bipartisan effort; however, the controversy begins when facilities and jurisdictions need to define, develop procedures and policies to prevent, and address it. This webinar will outline progress we have made in implementation and standards over the last 10 years. The presenter, a former PREA administrator, will discuss the PREA basics and the impact they may have for RSAT programs.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe at least three categories of individuals who have contact with inmates and are subject to PREA law.
  • List three characteristics of male inmates associated with an increased risk of becoming a victim of prison sexual assault.
  • Discuss the two methods used to collected data on the prevalence of sexual assault and abuse in custody.  
  • Identify at least three services that must be offered to PREA victims.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint used for this presentation.
Click here to download a handout for the PREA webinar. 
 
 
Date: August 21, 2013, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Rebecca Starr and Beth Fraster
Title of Presentation: The Access to Recovery (ATR) Program: Working with the Re-entry Population
Description: This webinar will familiarize participants with the federally funded Access to Recovery program and how it has been implemented in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Access to Recovery (ATR) seeks to expand the range of recovery support services available to individuals with substance use disorders. A major focus of ATR is individual choice. The grant requires that individuals are provided “genuine, free, and independent choice” among eligible recovery support providers. In Massachusetts, a big focus has been on providing employment services in order to help clients become ready and able to secure jobs, as well as on the relatively new service of Recovery Coaching. Both of these services and their outcomes will be highlighted in the webinar.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe two of the basic premises of the ATR program.
  • Discuss how the ATR payment system differs from typical grant based funding mechanisms and explain why this payment system was chosen.
  • Name three of the recovery support services that Massachusetts ATR offers to its participants. 
  • List two of the positive outcomes of the ATR program.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.
 
 
Date: June 19, 2013, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Andrew Klein
Title of Presentation: Domestic Violence and RSAT
Description: Although substance abuse is the universal common denominator among RSAT inmates, many share another common challenge, domestic violence (DV). Among RSAT populations are a high proportion of both domestic violence victims and perpetrators. In fact, some RSAT inmates’ substance abuse may have been the result of self-medication to deal with the stress of domestic violence. It also plays a major role in post-release recidivism. Studies indicate that after release, the second largest number of rearrests for RSAT graduates after substance abuse crimes is domestic violence. 

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe five activities that constitute what is typically described as “domestic violence.”
  • Identify the major three risk factors associated with being both a high risk abuser and being most vulnerable for domestic violence victimization.
  • Identify criminal and civil court histories that indicate domestic violence abuse and domestic violence abuse victimization.
  • Identify a community resource available to augment RSAT treatment to address domestic violence for both perpetrators and victims.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation. 
 
 
Date: May 15, 2013, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenters: Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office, Bourne MA
Roger Allen, Director of Inmate Services
Jessica Burgess, Assistant Director of Health Services
Title of Presentation: Educating Inmates on Medication-Assisted Recovery
Description: Barnstable County Sheriff’s office and correctional facility in Bourne, Massachusetts has been educating inmates on Medication-Assisted Treatment for the past year. This training will outline the purpose of educating inmates on different substance abuse treatment options. The training will also describe the appropriateness to the RSAT program at the facility. The PowerPoint and presentation used directly with inmates will be explained.  There will also be a brief description of Barnstable County Correctional Facility’s use of Medication-Assisted Treatment behind the walls using the medication Vivitrol. 

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify 2 medications used to treat alcohol addiction.
  • Identify 3 medications that treat opioid addiction.
  • Identify 1 difference between alcohol misuse and alcohol dependence.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.
 
 
Date: April 17, 2013, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Patti Butterfield
Title of Presentation: Residential Substance Abuse Treatment in the Federal Bureau of Prisons
Description: The Federal Bureau of Prisons (Bureau) has a lengthy history of offering residential substance abuse treatment to its offenders. Originally implemented in 1989, the Bureau's Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP) has evolved and expanded over time. This training will briefly review the history of RDAP in the Bureau, highlighting key periods of growth and change. The Bureau's current RDAP treatment model, which includes cognitive behavioral therapies delivered within the context of a modified therapeutic community environment, will be described. In addition, this training will focus on "lessons learned" from the Bureau's efforts to rapidly expand services and implement new evidence-based treatment models. 

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify 3 critical developments in the history of residential substance abuse treatment in the Bureau.
  • Identify the 10 core elements of the Bureau's current evidence-based model for the delivery of residential substance abuse treatment.
  • Name 5 components of the Bureau's drug treatment services organizational structure and the positive contributions of each component.
  • Describe 3 "lessons learned" regarding the effective implementation of residential substance abuse treatment programs in the Bureau.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.
 
 
Date: March 20, 2013, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation: Ethical Issues in Offender Treatment: Professional Boundaries
Description: Ethical issues related to professional boundaries are among the most problematic and challenging. Although some issues may seem cut-and-dried in a correctional setting, others may fall into the “gray area” depending on one’s role / job description.  This training will provide an awareness and understanding of professional boundaries – what they are and why they are important.  It will introduce participants to the concept of the Power Differential and how it impacts the relationships between all RSAT Program staff and community members.  It will review various slippery slope scenarios that highlight compromised boundaries and will provide participants with responses that they can call upon if they are in danger of crossing a professional boundary within their program. 

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Define the concept of “power differential”.
  • Identify three types of professional boundaries and their relevance to offender treatment.
  • List at least three warning signs that boundaries may be at risk of being crossed / compromised. 
  • Develop a plan of action if boundaries are in danger of becoming unprofessional / boundaries have been crossed.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.

 
Date: February 20, 2013, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Fred Zackon
Title of Presentation: Choosing and Using Evidence-Based Programming
Description: This presentation grapples with two questions: 
  1. What treatment issues matter most in selecting evidence-based programming (i.e., specific EB content and protocols) for one’s program? 
  2. What matters most for effective implementation of any program? 
These questions loom larger as more EB interventions enter a growing market of tools available to RSAT programs.  Without critiquing or ranking specific products, we will focus on:
  1. Deciding what your program wants a product to accomplish;
  2. Selecting a product with apparent capacity to do the job that might also fit well into your program; and,
  3. Implementing the curriculum/intervention with both rigor and sensible adaptations. 
The webinar is for program decision-makers who want to get the most treatment impact from any given EB programming and it’s for treatment staff who must deliver that curriculum and need to somehow make it their own.  

Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.
 
 
Date: January 16, 2013, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Prevention and Treatment Needs of RSAT Clients at Risk for or Living with HIV/AIDS
Description: Each year, an estimated one in five individuals with HIV passes through a correctional facility. HIV prevention and screening of the offender population represents an opportunity to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS, decrease related healthcare costs, and alleviate a great deal of human suffering. However, a lack of information and training, specifically within the correctional workforce, has been identified as a barrier to reducing the spread of HIV. This workshop is based on a new BJA- approved manual, vetted through the CDC, and available through the RSAT Training and Technical Assistance Center.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Apply increased knowledge of best practices for preventing, detecting and treating HIV/AIDS in correctional settings;
  • Support HIV screening and meet the SUD treatment needs of at-risk and HIV+ offenders; and
  • Help offenders modify health risk behaviors and access re-entry resources.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the PowerPoint for this presentation.

 
Date: December 19, 2012, 2:00 PM EST
Presenters:
1) Minnesota Department of Corrections
Dianne Seger, Associate Director Behavioral Health

2) State Training School for Boys, Eldora, IA

Mark E. Day, Superintendent
Robert A. McCartney, Director/CEO, Addiction Management Systems, Inc.

Title of Presentation: Voices from the Field: Innovations in RSAT Programming (MN & IA)

Description #1: Chemical Dependency Treatment for Release Violators: How to stop the revolving door!

Chemical dependency (CD) treatment programs in prisons are most effective in long-term therapeutic communities that are separated from the general population. While many release violators (RV’s) are re-incarcerated for reasons directly or indirectly related to a chemical use relapse, their shorter sentences don’t allow long-term primary CD treatment. This presentation will describe the development of a short term (90-120 day) relapse prevention treatment model for RV’s who would otherwise not receive treatment services while in prison, under RSAT.

Description #2: State Training School for Boys

The State Training School RSAT program in Eldora Iowa is provided to the adolescent male population that is nearing the end of their involvement in the juvenile justice system. These youth have experienced multiple treatment options in community programs but have not been able to benefit from these previous experiences. The RSAT program works with the youth in a structured setting at the school to help them understand how their use has affected their lives, develop alternatives to the problematic activities that have caused their problems with the law, and support them in the development life-style changes that would prevent involvement in the adult correctional system.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe the characteristics of release violators that make their needs for CD programming unique.
  • Discuss relapse prevention interventions for criminal populations.
  • Understand how to take the fight out of the early therapeutic encounter with adolescent males.support them in the difficult transition period from facility to community.
  • Identify means to provide/maintain a therapeutic relationship with the youth to support them in the difficult transition period from facility to community.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to view the PowerPoint for this presentation.

 
Date: November 21, 2012, 2:00 PM EST
Presenters:
1) Georgia Department of Corrections
Chandra S. Fussell, Program Manager, Risk Reduction Services, Substance Abuse Services
Dawn M. Collinge, Georgia State Director, Spectrum Health Systems, Inc.
2) Franklin County Juvenile Methamphetamine Program (Illinois)
Andrew Belt, Program Manager

Title of Presentation: Voices from the Field: Innovations in RSAT Programming

Description #1: Developing Integrated Treatment Programs for Georgia’s Offenders
The State of Georgia has opened two large dual diagnosis treatment programs, one for men and another for women. Learn what led to the development of these programs and how they are structured. Hear ways the original concept has been refined, means to get staff buy-in, next steps to assure program success, and resources to get similar programs developed.

Description #2: Franklin County Juvenile Methamphetamine Program
The Franklin County program in Benton Illinois is the only evidence-based Craving Identification and Management (CIM) curriculum being used in a locked setting in the United States. The CIM model is an approach to achieving and maintaining sobriety based on a process of analyzing craving and managing it with an individualized program of recovery activities. The Franklin County program works with males and females ages primarily 14-17. Learn about their novel treatment approach, outcome measures, and methods for assisting in the transition back to the community.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify three steps to get addiction professionals and corrections officers to accept treating inmates affected by co-occurring disorders.
  • Describe three obstacles to changing a locked RSAT residential treatment program from an addictions only to a dual-diagnosis treatment approach.
  • Learn three practical methods for implementing the evidence-based Craving Identification & Management (CIM) curriculum in an incarcerated setting.
  • Identify three important methods proven effective in transitioning addicts from in-custody treatment to their homes & communities.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to view the PowerPoint used for this presentation.
 
 
Date: October 17, 2012, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Alexa Eggleston
Title of Presentation: Reducing Recidivism and Promoting Recovery: Implications of National and State Trends for Improving Treatment Programs
Description: Research indicates that the reentry programs that are most effective at reducing recidivism focus on those that are most likely to reoffend, provide continuing care post-release, and incorporate other key evidence-based treatment practices. Given that scarce resources severely limit the number of individuals who are able to participate in treatment services, corrections and behavioral health practitioners must maximize available resources to improve public safety and promote the health of justice-involved persons with behavioral disorders. This presentation will discuss the implications of national and state trends that are changing the way practitioners and systems work. It will also introduce a framework that synthesizes ‘what works’ in behavioral health and criminal justice in order to help agencies prioritize and address the behavioral health and criminal justice supervision needs of adults in the criminal justice system. In addition, the presentation will identify ‘lessons learned’ from programs funded by the Second Chance Act about how to support successful reentry for individuals with behavioral health needs.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify four essential elements of a successful criminal justice and behavioral health reentry collaboration that can reduce recidivism and promote recovery.
  • Describe three core issues to consider when applying the principles of “Risk-Needs-Responsivity” to a prison-based treatment program post-release population with behavioral health needs.
  • Identify three best practices to inform decisions on how best to prioritize resources to address the needs of justice-involved adults with behavioral health disorders.
  • Describe three key action steps states can take to create effective referrals and linkages between correctional facilities, agencies, and community-based behavioral health treatment providers.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to view the PowerPoint used for this presentation.  
    
 
Date: September 19, 2012, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Lisa Braude
Title of Presentation: RSAT Correctional Policy and Planning: Preparing for National Health Reform
Description: Although many criminal justice programs across the country, especially RSAT programs, do a good job of identifying and developing partnerships with existing treatment and recovery support resources for inmates after release, many of these programs are underfunded, time-limited and stretched to capacity, reaching only a tiny proportion of the population in need. Fortunately, healthcare reform creates an opportunity for RSAT inmates to access primary care and behavioral health services upon release. This webinar discusses reentry from RSAT treatment within the context of health reform and discusses strategies to connect participants with essential treatment to preserve the gains made in RSAT treatment programs.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Discuss the three benefits of national health reform for RSAT inmates;
  • Identify the five steps RSAT staff can take to plan for national health reform for correctional populations and reentering inmates; and
  • Discuss potential benefits and challenges national health reform presents for RSAT correctional administrators and staff.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to view the PowerPoint used for this presentation. 
  
 
Date: August 15, 2012, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Phillip Barbour
Title of Presentation: Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Description: There has been much published in the past 10 years on the advantages of using Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for certain substance use disorders, most notably for opiate and alcohol dependency. Research has shown the benefits of using a combination of medication and psychotherapy outweigh the negative aspects, which have long prevented MAT from being used consistently. This presentation will look at the different types of medication being used in Opioid Replacement Therapy (ORT) and alcohol treatment, their efficacy as an intervention, and several studies being conducted by the federally funded CJ-DATS II project.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify which medications are being utilized in Medication Assisted Therapy (MAT) for opioid and alcohol addiction and how these drugs work;
  • Discuss the basic pharmacology behind MAT for opioid and alcohol addiction; and
  • Describe what MAT studies are currently underway through the CJ-DATS II project for the criminal justice client.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to view the PowerPoint for this webinar. 
   
 
Date: July 18, 2012, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Bruce Emery
Title of Presentation: Partnering with Public Behavioral Health Authorities to Build Effective Aftercare Programs
Description: Aftercare programs are increasingly important to public mental health and behavioral health authorities that are becoming more invested in creating partnerships that serve the needs of the "whole" client, including those with criminal justice involvement. This includes reaching out to service systems with which they have not historically had close ties, including corrections. The goal of this training is to introduce participants to the goals and structure of state systems of public behavioral health care, discuss the partnerships with corrections agencies that have been developed, and review the kinds of aftercare programming activities that these partnerships have produced. Aftercare program theory, research, and practice relevant for people with mental health and substance abuse disorders will be discussed.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List the three key organizational arrangements under which public mental health and substance abuse services are delivered in the U.S. and describe the implications of these arrangements on developing effective aftercare partnerships with authorities for RSAT clients;
  • Name two models of aftercare in wide use by US mental health and addictions authorities that are relevant to RSAT clients; and
  • Describe two effective strategies to reach out to behavioral health state authorities to create effective aftercare partnerships
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to view the PowerPoint for this webinar. 

 
Date: June 20, 2012, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Fred Zackon
Title of Presentation: Running Much Better Treatment Groups
Description: If a car’s not built right, the driver’s skills are secondary.  The same goes for treatment groups and their clinicians.  This webinar is about structural and operational fundamentals that largely determine the serviceability of any given treatment group, be it evidence-based and manualized, or TC-bred or home-made.  Specifically, these fundamentals are the group’s membership criteria, operating structure, and learning content.  At issue is why treatment staff must, and how they can, attend to these variables in order to avoid problems that even the best group therapists face too often and that many group therapists face all the time.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify within any given actual treatment group specific strengths or weakness of each of three fundamental elements at issue (see above);
  • Describe two or more practical steps for improving an actual given group’s therapeutic efficacy; and
  • Describe two or more methods to more effectively impart core program content through current treatment groups. 
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to view the PowerPoint for this webinar.

 
Date: May 16, 2012, 2:00 PM EDT
Presenter: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Co-occurring Disorders and Integrated Treatment Approaches for RSAT Programs
Description: Integrated treatment has become the standard of care for individuals with substance treatment needs and co-occurring mental health disorders (CODs). New research tells us that CODs are more prevalent among people entering substance use treatment than previously assumed, and even more common, still, among those incarcerated in US prisons and jails. The challenge for RSAT staff is to ensure the individuals complete treatment with an understanding of how their substance use and mental health disorders interact and the strategies that will help sustain recoveries from both. Although many professionals tend to label individuals with CODs as resistant or difficult to treat, research has identified effective practices that RSAT staff can successfully employ during treatment and in aftercare planning. The goal of this training is to introduce integrated treatment approaches that RSAT programs can apply at the screening, assessment and intervention levels.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Discuss the prevalence of CODs among RSAT clients and their impact on criminal behavior, addiction recovery and recidivism;
  • Explain the principles of integrated screening and assessment, and give examples of effective interventions for RSAT clients with co-occurring disorders; and
  • List the advantages of identifying mental health issues during treatment and educating clients about sustaining recovery from both disorders.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to view the slides for this presentation.

 
Date: April 18, 2012, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Angela Halvorson
Title of Presentation: The Rules of Engagement - Understanding The Military Experience to Better Treat the Incarcerated Veteran
Description: For many men and women who have risked so much to serve our country, their experiences have left them with post-deployment effects that in some cases can lead to or contribute to substance use disorders, mental health challenges, criminal justice involvement, or harm to self and others. Many of these men and women end up in the jail and prison system. Understanding their often unique and complex issues, including compounded trauma and exposure to violence, substance use disorders, and mental health challenges is essential. To serve this population effectively, RSAT staff need a working knowledge of the military culture and the combat experience, a trauma-informed and military-informed approach to services, and tools for safety and stabilization. This session provides a brief set of suggestions for addressing each of these areas of need. This session will also provide recommendations for the self-care and self-management of staff and clinicians working with this population.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify four characteristics of the “military mindset” and the implications for each in treating this population;
  • Discuss four of the post-deployment affects that can potentially lead to incarceration; and
  • Identify five effective clinical responses to the needs of veterans and five critical knowledge areas for clinical staff.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to view the slides for this presentation.

 
Date: March 21, 2012, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Phillip Barbour
Title of Presentation: Thinking for a Change: Integrated Cognitive Behavior Change Program
Description: Cognitive Behavior Programs have evolved over the last thirty years, impacted by a variety of researchers and practitioners. A number of approaches drawing largely on cognitive-behavioral methods have also been developed to address criminal thinking, the most popular among these being Thinking for a Change (T4C), issued by the National Institute of Corrections (NIC) (Bush et al. 2000). When integrating (T4C) into a therapeutic community program, offenders can learn to recognize thinking errors and to understand how those errors can lead to behavior that gets them into trouble. This webinar will look at the core components of Thinking for a Change (T4C) and review the lesson structure for the curriculum.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Know how many sessions are in the T4C curriculum;
  • Name the three key skills in the T4C curriculum;
  • Know which lessons are best for orientation of new participants; and
  • Know the basic lesson structure for T4C curriculum.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to view the slides for this presentation.

 
Date: February 15, 2012, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Niki Miller
Title of Presentation: Trauma-Informed Correctional Care
Description: Trauma-informed services are becoming the standard of care in behavioral health. Applying trauma-informed care to criminal justice systems is challenging but also logical when one considers the prevalence of trauma in the lives of RSAT clients and the triggering nature of prison and jail environments. The goal of this training is to introduce trauma theory, research and practice relevant to people with addictive disorders who may have histories of exposure to violence and trauma and are in the justice system. Understanding the impact of trauma, the changes that take place among clients who have PTSD, or other trauma-related disorders, will help RSAT staff deal with the significant numbers of offenders with histories of exposure to violence. The principles of trauma-informed care are simple to apply. A few general guidelines can make treatment more effective and correctional facilities safer. Trauma interventions specifically suited for addiction treatment programs have been highly effective. In addition, anyone working with large numbers of traumatized individuals can benefit from the basics of self-care as they work with this demanding population.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • List the three major symptom categories of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and explain how they may manifest themselves in RSAT clients;
  • Identify two foundational principles of trauma-informed care and name one trauma-specific intervention; and
  • Describe two strategies to minimize re-traumatization while screening for trauma in a criminal justice setting.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to view the slides for this presentation.  

 
Date: January 18, 2012, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Phillip Barbour
Title of Presentation: Criminal and Addictive Thinking
Description: Thinking errors in criminals continue to expand into almost all areas of their lives and they regularly fail to deter their distorted thinking which results in regular violence and harm of others. These thinking errors are similar for the addicted offender as well, leading to substance use and criminal activity. This webinar is an overview of the criminal and addictive thinking patterns and their similarities, tactics used by the addicted offender in an effort to mask their criminogenic needs, and "the lack of time perspective" which prevents them from learning from their experiences.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify how many patterns are the same between criminal and addictive thinking;
  • Define at least three criminal thinking patterns; and
  • Identify at least three characteristics of the "lack of time perspective".
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to view the slides from this presentation.   

 
Date: December 21, 2011, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Daniel Ryan
Title of Presentation: Motivational Interviewing
Description: This 45-minute presentation is in large part based on Miller and Rollnick’s text, Motivational Interviewing. It is a succinct interpretation of Motivational Interviewing (MI) philosophy and is not intended to be a fully comprehensive review of the subject.

Participants will learn one of MI’s most important rules, confrontation doubles an inmate’s resistance. The best way to respond to an inmate’s resistance is through non-resistance—hostility and criticism are counterproductive and ineffective.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Describe substance abuse and addiction as it is identified by the National Institute of Drug Abuse;
  • Identify at least two key principles of Motivational Interviewing; and
  • Describe at least seven rules of Motivational Interviewing.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation. 
Click here to view the slides from this presentation. 

 
Date: October 19th and November 16th, 2011, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Ret. Captain Mark Thompson and Roberta C. Churchill
Title of Presentation: Partners in Crime Reduction: Building Stronger Relationships Among Correctional Officers and Treatment Staff to Ensure Program Effectiveness
Description: An often overlooked but very influential factor in ensuring the effectiveness of an RSAT Program is the importance that staff makes in the delivery of effective services throughout the program experience. More specifically, the relationships between security officers (uniformed staff) and treatment providers (non-uniformed staff) within an RSAT Program is essential to the proper functioning of a structured, consistent and successful program. This webinar will bring together a former RSAT Treatment Director and retired RSAT Lead Officer who together created the first RSAT Program in Massachusetts. They bring first-hand knowledge of the keys to successful partnerships and how to avoid potential pitfalls.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify the role of staff relationships within the context of Responsivity and Need Principles;
  • Understand the importance of RSAT Program staff as role models;
  • Identify methods to build relationships between uniformed and non-uniformed staff; and
  • Discuss programmatic techniques to maintain strong relationships among all RSAT Program staff.
Click here to view a recording of part 1 of this presentation.
Click here to view a recording of part 2 of this presentation.
Click here to download the slides from this presentation.   

 
Date: September 21, 2011, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Kenneth L. Osborne
Title of Presentation: Socialization and Change of the Drug Involved Offender
Description: Participants in this webinar will explore the pilgrimage individuals make into the life of crime and addiction. The presenter will cover how social learning impacts addictive choices. In addition, the culture of addiction will be covered, the use of the stages of change as a method of examining pathways in and out of addiction will be discussed as well. Risk reductions and three determinants of change will be reviewed.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Discuss the three pathways in and out of addiction;
  • Discuss the three ways social learning impacts addictive behavior; and
  • List the three determinants of positive change necessary in order to sustain treatment gains.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the slides from this presentation.

 
Date: August 17, 2011, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Deana Evens
Title of Presentation: Gender Responsiveness in Correctional Systems for the Substance Use Offender
Description: Over the years, correctional systems have studied the behavior of male offenders and slowly developed approaches geared towards the male population. While male offenders make up 82% of the adult jail/prison population, incarceration rates of women has tripled in the last 30 years. The needs of the female offender differ from males, yet the system has been slow to alter their approach in working with females. By being gender responsive, and using appropriate strategies for working with female offenders, this will increase safety and can have profound effects on the well-being of families, communities and our society as a whole. This webinar is designed to increase awareness about female offenders in the correctional setting and provide insight on how best to work with this ever-growing population.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify five characteristics to understand and work more effectively with women offenders; 
  • Recognize four behaviors/consequences that women with substance abuse problems have; and
  • State six Gender-Responsive Guiding Principles.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the slides from this presentation. 

 
Date: July 20, 2011, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Linda Gatson-Rowe
Title of Presentation: Community as Change Agent: Incorporating Peer-to-Peer Learning in RSAT Programs
Description: The webinar educates registrants in the many benefits of creating a culture that supports accountability to a peer group that is, in turn, accountable to a “rational authority”. This model of accountability has been implemented and empirically validated in a prison based RSAT as well as in community corrections and sober house settings. The model incorporates elements of the twelve step fellowship, the cognitive-behavioral approach, and the therapeutic community perspective to create an environment that supports change and a peer group that becomes a vital piece of the intervention. As each member becomes more accountable to the group, both the individual and the treatment community become stronger.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify 3 advantages of Therapeutic Community;
  • Identify and discuss therapeutic tools used in Therapeutic Community structure; and
  • Identify infrastructure of Therapeutic Community.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the slides from this presentation.

 
Date: June 15, 2011, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Fred Zackon
Title of Presentation: Core Recovery Goals for RSAT Programming
Description: This webinar aims to help RSAT staff sharpen their clinical focus on particularly important treatment goals. We will draw distinctions between broad objectives (e.g., “begin a strong recovery,” “learn to be drug-free”) and specific and measurable goals that represent foundational achievements of sustainable recovery and that can be well targeted by evidence-based approaches. 
 
Incorporating input from the audience, we will apply the SMART rubric (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound) to define such goals, discuss their importance, show how they can be made measurable, and fit them within the typical resource set of correctional programs.

After completing this webinar, participants will be able to:
  • Identify major achievements of developmental recovery irrespective of treatment interventions;
  • Gauge how appropriately their own services focus on achievable recovery progress;
  • Recognize vital features of practical recovery-based treatment goals; and
  • Link specific evidence-based practices to achievable recovery-based treatment goals.
Click here to view a recording of this presentation.
Click here to download the slides from this presentation. 

 
Date: May 18, 2011, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Roberta Churchill
Title of Presentation:
Offender Assessment Using the Risk-Need-Responsivity Model
Description: Ensuring public safety by reducing criminal behaviors can best be achieved by providing offenders with services that match their level of risk as well as addressing their criminogenic needs. More effective correctional programs follow a cognitive behavioral and social learning approach, however specific responsivity issues such as tailoring interventions to the learning style, motivation, abilities and strengths of the offender are increasingly recognized as significant considerations for treatment planning as well. Current research documents significant reduction in recidivism when the principles of risk, need and responsivity are adhered to in correctional programming. But how do correctional professionals determine an offender’s risk level, treatment needs and the best way to deliver services?

Learning Objectives
  • A brief history of offender assessment
  • A review of the Risk – Need - Responsivity (RNR) Model
  • The role of the RNR Model in the development of offender assessment instruments
  • The connection between offender assessment, treatment planning and provision of services
  • An overview of several 4th Generation RNR assessment instruments  
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Date: April 20, 2011, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Phillip Barbour
Title of Presentation: The Value of Proper Assessments: Selecting the Most Appropriate Assessment Tools to Ensure Effective Treatment Protocols for Your Substance Abusing Population
Description: Sound clinical practice regarding assessment is the key to identifying initial and ongoing treatment needs and services; as well as identifying reentry needs and services. Assessment of the criminal justice population must also address criminal risk factors that can impact treatment progress both within the institution and during community reentry. This webinar will introduce participants to evidence-based tools and practices for the assessment of the criminal justice population in treatment.

Learning Objectives
  • Review of current assessment tools
  • Assessing risk factors for the criminal justice client
  • What tools are right for the job
  • The conveyance of assessment information to providers
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Click here to download the slides from this presentation.

 
Webinar: March 16, 2011, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Phillip Barbour
Title of Presentation: Screening: Making the Most of Limited Resources
Description: The inmates’ need for treatment in jails and prisons far outweighs the resources that are available. Therefore, it is critical for programs to partner with their correctional centers to develop criteria for who they can serve based on available resources and security classification; and develop screening processes to ensure that inmates are matched with the appropriate treatment services. This webinar will focus on the development of program criteria, taking into account both the resources of the treatment program as well as the security classification issues; and screening processes, including evidence-based tools, that can be used to match offenders to institution based treatment programs.
 
Learning Objectives
  • Understanding the resource challenges in the screening process: Who should do it? When it should be done? Where is the best place?
  • Selecting the right AOD tool for screening: e.g. TCUDSII, Simple Screening Instrument, SASSI.
  • Developing and maintaining integrity between the screening process and the actual treatment of the offender.  Consents, agreements and incentives.
  • The importance of sharing information from the screening.
  • Understanding how security classification and good time credit affects treatment.
Click here to download the slides from this presentation.

 
Webinar: February 16, 2011, 2:00 PM EST
Presenter: Fred Zackon
Title of Presentation: Key Elements of Effective Cognitive Behavioral Therapies
Description: No matter its orientation—Twelve Step, TC, or something else—your program probably employs CBT of some sort.  It’s big in our field.  But CBT is what exactly?  And does what exactly?  What’s common to the most proven varieties of CBT?  Could those elements be strengthened in your program?  Does your form of CBT reinforce the other features of your program?  And vice versa?  This webinar will: 
  • Explain clearly the essential theories and strategies of the leading forms of CBT;
  • Identify from research and practice features shared by almost all effective CBT;
  • Offer a simple tool for gauging the health of CBT practices in your program;
  • Explore how to get broader treatment impact from the CBT you do use.
Click here to download the slides from this presentation.