Date of Conferral

2-5-2025

Degree

Doctor of Human Services (D.H.S.)

School

Human Services

Advisor

Barbara Benoliel

Abstract

The number of individuals who experience a mental health diagnosis and are incarcerated is growing within the United States. Data also shows that the types of mental health treatment currently being offered within jails are not enough to help those with a mental health diagnosis. The purpose of this qualitative study was to highlight different strategies to assist professionals and administrators of jails in Virginia with providing adequate mental health treatment to those incarcerated. The well-being development model framework was used as a lens through which to explore different strategies that human services professionals can use in correctional facilities to help those needing treatment. The research question asked for the participants’ recommendations on components for mental health treatment programs for incarcerated individuals. Narrative data were collected from eighteen participant responses to semistructured survey questions and analyzed using content analysis to highlight emerging themes of treatment options for participants to rank. The results from this study showed that cognitive behavioral therapy and de-escalation strategies should be used first to implement change within jails in Virginia and other areas of the United States. The results may positively impact social change by improving the quality of life among those incarcerated with mental illness through informing mental health professionals, correctional facility administrators, correctional officers, and other individuals who work within the jail environment.

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