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Each year, the United States releases an estimated 650,000 inmates from prisons and nearly 13 million from jails. Many of these individuals are impacted by mental health disorders, and only some will receive proper discharge planning and information about accessing services after release. Improper care coordination, lack of support, and limited access to resources contribute to high rates of recidivism for individuals after release. This course teaches learners about the challenges faced by individuals upon release from incarceration and how behavioral health professionals can support them as they reenter the community.

Colorado is home to approximately 37,000 licensed lawyers and 390 judges. This course provides judges, district attorneys, public defenders, and private attorneys with insights into the intersection of behavioral health and the criminal justice system. Judges and attorneys will explore mental health conditions and challenges in justice-involved populations, including antisocial personality disorder, substance use disorder, and trauma, while examining how utilizing evidence-based approaches, such as the Risk-Need-Responsivity model, can reduce recidivism.

Learners will gain an understanding of ways behavioral health influences a person’s decision-making, engagement, and rehabilitation; the mental health disorders most seen in justice settings; and how to refer individuals to appropriate services. By recognizing how behavioral and mental health shapes behavior, communication, and compliance, legal professionals can support better overall outcomes for individuals, including reduction in recidivism.

As behavioral health professionals, you play a pivotal role in addressing the complex mental health needs of refugee populations who have fled their home countries due to conflict, persecution, or violence. These individuals and families bring with them not only their hopes and dreams for a safer future but also the profound scars of their traumatic experiences.

Refugees often face unique challenges that can significantly impact their mental health, including language barriers, cultural differences, social isolation, and the stress of adapting to a new environment. Additionally, many refugees have experienced severe trauma, including war, torture, and the loss of loved ones, which can lead to a range of mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. This training will equip you with the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate, effective, and culturally sensitive care.