Correctional Behavioral Therapist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In a society that prioritizes rehabilitation, the role of a Correctional Behavioral Therapist has never been more critical.

As our understanding of the human mind advances, so does the need for skilled professionals who can guide, mold, and protect the psychological health of those in correctional facilities.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Correctional Behavioral Therapist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of correctional behavioral therapy,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a tailor-made Correctional Behavioral Therapist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Correctional Behavioral Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

Correctional Behavioral Therapists work in correctional facilities providing therapeutic services to inmates.

They utilize psychotherapy techniques and principles to help inmates address behavioral and emotional issues, with a focus on rehabilitation and prevention of further criminal behavior.

The following are their duties and responsibilities:

• Assessing the mental and emotional state of inmates using observation and diagnostic tests
• Developing individualized treatment plans based on inmates’ needs
• Providing individual and group therapy sessions focusing on various issues such as anger management, stress management, and coping with trauma
• Working closely with correctional staff and other healthcare professionals to coordinate care for inmates
• Documenting and maintaining detailed records of inmates’ progress
• Monitoring the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions and adjusting treatment plans as necessary
• Providing crisis intervention and conflict resolution as needed
• Implementing behavioral modification techniques
• Facilitating rehabilitation programs and activities to help inmates reintegrate into society post-release
• Adhering to the professional, ethical and legal standards of the field

 

Correctional Behavioral Therapist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a compassionate and dedicated Correctional Behavioral Therapist to join our team.

The ideal candidate will provide psychological assessments, therapy, and treatment planning to inmates in a correctional facility.

A Correctional Behavioral Therapist’s responsibility is to diagnose and treat various mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders among the incarcerated population.

You will also help develop rehabilitation plans that involve coping skills, stress management, and problem-solving strategies.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct psychological assessments and provide individual and group therapy sessions.
• Develop, implement and review treatment plans.
• Communicate effectively with inmates to ensure their mental and emotional wellbeing.
• Collaborate with correctional staff and healthcare professionals to ensure continuity of care.
• Provide emergency psychological services when needed.
• Maintain professional and up-to-date client records.
• Adhere to all ethical guidelines and standards of the profession.
• Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and case conferences.

 

Qualifications

• A Master’s degree in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work, or related field.
• Licensed as a Behavioral Therapist or similar professional licensure.
• Experience working in a correctional facility or with a similar population is preferred.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong understanding of diagnostic techniques and treatment therapies for various mental disorders.
• Ability to handle stressful and crisis situations tactfully and calmly.
• Commitment to maintaining strict confidentiality and to ethical principles.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Correctional Behavioral Therapist
• Work Environment: Correctional facility
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Mental Health Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $80,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Correctional Behavioral Therapist Do?

Correctional Behavioral Therapists work primarily in correctional facilities such as prisons and jails.

They may also work in juvenile detention centers, halfway houses, and re-entry programs.

Their primary responsibility is to assess, diagnose, and treat incarcerated individuals who are struggling with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

They utilize various therapeutic interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and trauma-informed care to help these individuals understand and manage their emotions, behaviors, and thoughts in a healthier way.

Correctional Behavioral Therapists also develop and implement treatment plans, which may involve individual or group therapy sessions.

They have to document the progress of the inmates and update their treatment plans as necessary.

Moreover, they often collaborate with other professionals within the correctional system, such as psychiatrists, social workers, and correctional officers, to ensure that the needs of the inmates are being met and that the facility is providing a safe and therapeutic environment.

They also play a crucial role in reducing recidivism by equipping inmates with the necessary tools to cope with their problems, which in turn can help them reintegrate into society upon their release.

 

Correctional Behavioral Therapist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient correctional behavioral therapist needs to possess a unique combination of therapeutic knowledge, strong interpersonal skills, and a robust understanding of the criminal justice system.

This includes:

• Extensive knowledge of psychological and therapeutic techniques to help inmates cope with their emotional and mental health issues.
• Strong understanding of criminal behavior and the unique mental health needs of individuals in correctional settings.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively engage with inmates, correctional staff, and other professionals in a challenging and high-stress environment.
• Ability to conduct individual and group therapy sessions, adjusting approach based on inmate needs and available resources.
• Demonstrated ability to create and implement treatment plans, monitor progress, and adjust as necessary to aid inmate rehabilitation.
• Resilience and emotional stability to work with potentially difficult and volatile populations, and to handle stressful situations effectively.
• Proficiency in maintaining confidential records, writing reports, and communicating inmates’ progress to relevant parties.
• Good understanding of laws and regulations pertaining to inmate rights, confidentiality, and ethics in a correctional setting.
• Advanced problem-solving skills to address complex issues that arise in the course of therapy.

 

Correctional Behavioral Therapist Experience Requirements

Correctional Behavioral Therapists are usually required to have a Master’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field.

They must also possess a significant amount of experience working in a clinical or counseling environment, typically requiring at least 2 to 3 years.

Some of this experience can be gained through internships, part-time roles, or full-time roles in mental health agencies, hospitals, or private practice environments.

These professionals may have also gained experience by working directly with individuals who have mental health disorders, substance abuse problems, or who are in the criminal justice system.

Candidates with more than 3 to 5 years of experience often have a solid background in crisis intervention and group therapy, having developed their counseling skills and knowledge in entry-level Correctional Behavioral Therapist roles or other relevant positions.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership or supervisory experience in their background, having coordinated or managed mental health programs or teams in correctional facilities, and may be ready for a managerial or supervisory role.

Additionally, they are expected to be licensed by the state in which they practice, which typically requires passing an examination after completing a certain amount of supervised clinical experience.

They may also be required to complete continuing education courses to maintain their licensure.

 

Correctional Behavioral Therapist Education and Training Requirements

Correctional Behavioral Therapists are typically required to have a master’s degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field.

To gain practical experience, they are often required to complete a year or two of supervised clinical work, which may be part of their degree program.

Some states also require completion of a specific number of hours of continuing education each year to maintain licensure.

In addition to the degree, a license is mandatory for practice in most states.

The requirements for licensure vary by state but usually include the completion of a master’s program, supervised clinical experience, and passing a licensure examination.

Many Correctional Behavioral Therapists also choose to become certified, although it is not a requirement.

Certification can enhance job prospects and is usually obtained through the National Board for Certified Counselors or the American Board of Professional Psychology.

Furthermore, due to the unique and challenging environment in which they work, Correctional Behavioral Therapists should also possess exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and resilience.

Knowledge about the legal and criminal justice system is also beneficial.

 

Correctional Behavioral Therapist Salary Expectations

A Correctional Behavioral Therapist can expect to earn an average salary of $57,300 (USD) per year.

This salary can vary based on factors such as years of experience, level of education, specialization within the field, and geographic location.

 

Correctional Behavioral Therapist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Correctional Behavioral Therapist need?

Correctional Behavioral Therapists need to have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with their clients.

They need to be empathetic and patient, as they’ll often be dealing with individuals who have severe emotional or mental health issues.

Additionally, they should have a strong understanding of therapeutic techniques and behavioral modification strategies.

These therapists also need to possess good problem-solving skills to help their clients overcome challenges.

 

Do Correctional Behavioral Therapists need a degree?

Yes, to become a Correctional Behavioral Therapist, one typically needs to hold a Master’s degree in counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field.

In most instances, they also need to be licensed by the state in which they work, which usually requires passing an exam and completing supervised clinical hours.

 

What should you look for in a Correctional Behavioral Therapist resume?

Look for evidence of a strong educational background in a relevant field, such as a Master’s degree in psychology or counseling.

It’s also crucial to look for licensure or certification as a therapist.

Relevant work experience, especially in correctional or forensic settings, is a strong plus.

Specialized training in areas such as trauma therapy, substance abuse counseling, or anger management can also be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Correctional Behavioral Therapist?

A good Correctional Behavioral Therapist should be patient and empathetic as they will often be dealing with individuals who have severe emotional or mental health issues.

They should also have good problem-solving skills to help their clients overcome challenges.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are also key, as they need to build trust and rapport with their clients.

Lastly, they should have a strong commitment to ethics and patient confidentiality.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Correctional Behavioral Therapist?

Yes, hiring a Correctional Behavioral Therapist can be challenging as it requires a specific set of skills and qualifications.

The individual must have the right educational background, relevant work experience, and the ability to work effectively in a correctional setting.

The potential therapist should also be able to handle stressful situations and work with individuals who may have a history of violence or severe mental health issues.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the significant role of a correctional behavioral therapist.

And guess what?

It’s not just about guiding and treating inmates.

It’s about shaping a more compassionate future, one therapy session at a time.

With our comprehensive correctional behavioral therapist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take your next step.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to precisely tailored job listings or enhancing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every therapy session is part of the broader journey.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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