Date
2-23-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Abstract
The field of community corrections has undergone a transformation. While holding probationers accountable is still the expectation, agencies have begun to embrace evidence-based interventions to guide client change instead of a more punitive approach. The creation of specialized mental health probation caseloads is a natural evolution of supervision. The purpose of a specialized mental health caseload is to create a pathway for the ethical supervision of clients experiencing serious and persistent mental illness. Administrators who are committed to compassionate service will be most impactful when they consider the many potential ethical implications for both the client and the probation practitioner assigned to the caseload. The implementation of a specialized mental health caseload into probation requires effective leadership. There are many factors to address during the implementation process. These can include organizational readiness, staffing needs, stakeholder engagement, and budgetary constraints.