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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Westwood College is an institution of higher learning dedicated to providing quality, career-focused undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and credentials needed to launch, enhance, or change careers. The College offers broad access to education and serves a diverse, multicultural body of students in an environment that promotes pride, respect, and teamwork. The College's programs are designed to empower students to pursue their individual career goals.
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Our programs are current, in depth, and job oriented. A sound educational background, combined with "hands-on" experience, is required to meet the needs of an ever-changing and increasingly technical society.
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At ITT Tech we are committed to helping men and women develop the skills and knowledge to pursue many opportunities in fields involving technology, criminal justice, and business.
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Saint Leo University Online is a leading provider of accredited online education to working adults and is a major global provider of education to the military. The online programs are designed to meet the growing needs of adult students and offer the best attributes of traditional classroom education in conjunction with today's most innovative computer technology.
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Newbridge College provides high-quality, career specific training and an emphasis on practical skills required by today's employers.
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Once you decide to become part of the expanding, exciting, and in-demand world of healthcare, selecting the best college to meet your needs and goals is clearly one of your most important decisions. Medical Careers Institute, the School of Health Science of ECPI College of Technology, understands the aspirations of people who want to experience the rewards of caring and who want a direct route toward their career goal.
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Courses that you can take with you---the varied curriculums at HoHoKus Rets School of Business have been evaluated by the American Council on Education, allowing graduates to earn up to 55 college credits at more than 1500 colleges and universities across the nation.
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Find out why so many students in Florida and nationwide are choosing Southern Tech as their school of choice. Whether you need to upgrade your skills or change careers, we have the right program to fit your needs. Let us show you how to get the skills you need in a short amount of time so that you can get into your career today!
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Bellevue University, a leader in adult learning, is your best choice. We accept ALL of the credit in your associate's degree - that's EVERY credit in your A.A.S, A.S., A.G.S., and A.A. degree! And, Bellevue University gives you accelerated bachelor's degree completion 100% ONLINE. So, you enroll with your associate's degree, and complete your bachelor's degree in as little as 12 months.
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Tags: counseling, psychology, psychology degree
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