Forensic and Correctional Mental Health Counseling

Need for Master's Level Clinicians

For many, it's a calling.  Entering the field of forensic mental health counseling isn't for everyone, but for those who pursue this path, the rewards are great.

Research shows that people with mental illness are significantly overrepresented in prison and jail populations.  Over half of all inmates in state prisons and local jails report symptoms of mental illness and an overwhelming 90 percent  may suffer from a drug or alcohol problem (Bureau of Justice Statistics, 2006; US Department of Justice, 2000). The demand for trained mental health professionals who are sensitive to the unique needs and challenges of working with offenders is on the rise.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics  there were about 170,000 employed psychologists in 2008, 21 percent of whom  worked in law enforcement, government agencies, correctional facilities and drug/substance abuse centers. Employment is expected to grow by 12 percent from 2008-2018, with most opportunities available for those with graduate degrees.

Filling the Void

Palo Alto's master's degree and certificate programs in forensic and correctional mental health counseling are designed to offer two avenues for meeting the unique demands facing mental health professionals who work with offenders.  For those with a bachelor's degree, the master's program provides a solid foundation in clinical and counseling psychology along with concentrated training on its application to offenders. The internship year allows students to gain valuable clinical training in a forensic or correctional facility in their home community.

For those who already hold a master's degree, the certificate program  is designed to allow the opportunity to gain additional training focused on working with offender populations. These professionals may already work in forensic or correctional settings, or may be looking to expand their areas of practice or advance their careers.  

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