Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Treatment (CBT) programming is based on research demonstrating that antisocial thoughts and cognitive deficits are directly related to criminal behavior.
The goal of CBT is to identify situations, thoughts and feelings that may lead to criminal behavior and replace them with rational thoughts, problem-solving skills, coping skills and social skills that will help the residents to live a pro-social life. The residents participate in group treatment that involves cognitive restructuring and role plays to allow the residents to think through situations, make pro-social decisions and respond appropriately.
CBT Group Interventions
1. Thinking for a Change
Thinking for a Change is a group intervention that targets three main areas: (a) Cognitive Restructuring (b) Social Skills Training and (c) Problem Solving Skills. All RCCC residents must successfully complete this curriculum.
2. Substance Abuse (University of Cincinnati Curriculum)
Most residents of RCCC have a recent history of substance abuse that is connected to their criminal behavior. For residents with a need in this area, RCCC provides a CBT group that target specific thoughts and behaviors related to substance abuse. Residents are also required to complete a detailed relapse prevention plan prior to release.
3. Moving On
For female offenders, gender-responsive treatment is necessary to provide effective interventions. The Moving On curriculum is a treatment program designed specifically for women involved in the criminal justice system. The program targets risk factors in a way that is effective for women.
4. Education
Each resident’s educational abilities and needs are assessed upon entry into the program. When educational needs are identified, residents work with an Education Specialist to improve skills and may work to increase skills and if possible earnning a GED.
5. Employment
Job readiness classes are offered to all residents The HELP program Employment Specialists work with residents to help them obtain sustainable employment.
6. Anger Management (Texas Christian University curriculum)
Anger management groups are provided for residents who have a history of aggressive behavior or demonstrate other indicators of difficulty regulating feelings of anger.
7. Parenting (Texas Christian University curriculum)
Programming in the area of parenting is another treatment option for residents who have not developed adequate parenting skills.
8. Additional Interventions
RCCC offers additional group and individual treatment for residents based upon their needs.
9. Trauma Informed Care
Trauma-informed care shifts the focus from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What happened to you?” A trauma-informed approach requires teams to have a complete picture of a person’s life situation — past and present. Trauma-informed practices can potentially improve a resident’s engagement, treatment adherence, and outcomes, as well as provider and staff wellness.
The Culinary Arts Program (CAP) is a nine week course in food preparation and service. Residents who complete the program will receive a certificate in Culinary Arts and will be referred to job leads in the local food service industry. The program features a working partnership with Frisch's restaurants and the River City Correctional Center. Participants in the program prepare all meals served at RCCC.
The River City Correctional Center's Maintenance Assistance Program (MAP) offers participants the opportunity to learn basic maintenance skills that can be used in job seeking as well as in their everyday lives. Residents in this program provide assistance to the maintenance staff in the daily upkeep of the facility. Skills learned include general building maintenance, custodial care, grounds keeping and the basics of electrical, plumbing and HVAC maintenance. The program is a minimum of 100 hours.