What are the benefits as well as drawbacks and potential challenges of offering therapy in a forensic context?

What types of therapy might be appropriate to offer to male prisoners?

Why do some male prisoners not respond to therapy?

How do you help those who self-harm or hold suicidal ideation or intent?

Evaluate the specific challenges and issues that might be faced by prison staff planning to implement a therapeutic service (as described in the hypothetical scenario provided below).

As a psychological consultant who has been contacted by a local prison. The governor of the prison wants to implement a therapeutic service and offer the prisoners therapy. The prison is for Cat B male prisoners, many have been convicted several times for various crimes.

A recent inspection of the prison reported that there were high levels of self-harm and attempted suicides by the prisoners and it was suggested that a number of the prisoners would benefit from receiving therapy.

• The governor is requesting a report on the issues that need to be taken into consideration in setting up the therapeutic service.
• what are the benefits of offering therapy and also any drawbacks and potential challenges that may be associated with offering therapy in a forensic setting.
• Which of the four therapeutic approaches in the module (attachment therapy, CBT, systemic therapy and mindfulness), should be offered to the male prisoners, with an appropriate rationale and why particular therapies might be beneficial and what are the potential drawbacks associated with them.
• Why male prisoners may not respond to therapy, how to help those who have suicidal thoughts and self-harm.
• How to prevent reoffending, as many have been convicted several times.
• General suggestions and recommendations for the governor rather than specific guidance on how the therapeutic service should be set up in this prison.