A recently released study from the U.S. Justice Department estimated that more than half of all prison inmates have signs of mental illness. Unfortunately, less than a third of those inmates actually receive appropriate treatment for their symptoms from a professional with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology. From survey results, the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics determined that a large portion of inmates have suffered from major depression, mania, hallucinations, delusions, and other psychotic disorders within the past year. Of those receiving treatment, the most prevalent treatment method was prescription medication.
In Pennsylvania, the rising percentage of inmates with mental health problems is finally leveling off thanks to improved access to treatment. According to an article from the associated press of the American Psychological Association, every inmate in the Pennsylvania correctional system is screened by a clinician. Disciplines, such as clinical psychology, are extremely important in identifying and correcting mental health problems in prisons and jails. Clinical psychology is the largest discipline within the field of psychology, encompassing professionals who work in counseling centers, private practices, clinics, and hospitals. Professionals with a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology often perform diagnostic tests to identify mental illness, administer psychotherapy, and create behavior modification programs. Although they typically do not prescribe medication, they may work in cooperation with physicians to get a patient started on an appropriate prescription.
Many aspiring psychologists are opting to attend distance programs through schools such as Capella University in order to earn a Master of Science in Clinical Psychology. Upon completion of their degree, they may choose to practice in a community mental health center. Critics of the recent U.S. Justice Department study are calling for increased funding of mental health treatment outside the nation’s prisons and jails. Citizens who fail to receive treatment for a mental health problem, and consequently end up in jail or prison for unruly behavior, place an unnecessary burden on the criminal justice system.
In addition to increased funding is the need for mental health professionals with a desire to serve the inmate and community population. Typically, students first complete a bachelor’s degree in psychology such as the online psychology degree available through American InterContinental University (AIU). The Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology often permits a graduate to obtain an entry level position in a community mental health clinic. If further specialization is desired, programs such as the Master of Science in Clinical Psychology at Capella University can give professionals extra preparation to work within the correctional system. Prospective students are encouraged to visit College-Pages.com, the education and career resource, for a complete list of available programs.
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Tags: counseling, psychology, psychology degree
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