Corrections Community

I am looking for a jurisdiction that has experience in operating a forensic unit for women offenders with acute mental health issues.  Can someone point me in a new direction?

Thank you

Maureen Buell, Correctional Program Specialist

National Institute of Corrections

mbuell@bop.gov

Hello!

Currently my facility has a program set up for males with acute mental illness and I am working on getting the female housing unit on the same "page".  The males attend mini-treatment/counseling sessions, most have single cell rooms (there are a few double bunked), but when they are considered "stable" they get to come out for most of the days and the staff in the building have specialized training.  There is a "gradual step" as the inmates improve and maintain.  Although, our female housing unit is not there yet, we are working toward the same type of set up.  It has helped many of the males and I see it helping the females when/if I can get it up and running.  Sorry I don't have any more information for you, but I'm still in the early stages.

Thank you Sgt.  Towne for your response.  Please keep me informed about your progress with female inmates. 

Maureen Buell, NIC

You should have a look at Bedford Hills (maximum-security prison for women), Westchester County, NY. This a mental health level one facility, meaning that it has de capability to provide mentally ill inmates with the most intensive mental health services available in the state prison system.

That was one of the facilities that I recently rec'd more detail on with regard to mental health services.  Thank you for your recommendation as well.

Maureen Buell, NIC