Behavior Change in Community Corrections: When Mission Drives Investment, the Outcomes Follow

SESSION INFO

Monday, August 19, 2019
4:15 PM - 5:15 PM
Session Type: Workshop

An interesting case study that illustrates how changes at a Texas Community Supervision and Corrections Department were associated with very favorable outcomes forms the basis for this interactive workshop. These outcomes followed an evolution in the Department’s mission along with an investment by the agency in supporting individual change. Leading this workshop are an experienced agency director and a forensic psychiatrist, who will work together to engage participants in reviewing strategies for positive behavior change and in learning about the impact of departmental mission on investment and outcomes. Participants will discuss case studies that illustrate opportunities and challenges. The workshop also includes an exercise that guides participants in identifying strategies they can apply at their home institutions.

SESSION PRESENTERS

Mr. Allen E. Bell
Agency Director, Midland County CSCD


Allen Bell, M.S. is the Agency Director for Midland Community Supervision and Corrections Department. He is a native Texan who served in the U.S. Army Military Police Corps prior to joining the Department as a probation officer. Allen has held various positions with the Midland CSCD, including Felony and Misdemeanor Probation Officer, Residential Probation Officer, Residential Facility Director, and Department Deputy Director. Allen is a lifetime member of the Texas Probation Association, as well as a member of the American Probation and Parole Association and the National Association of Probation Executives.


Melissa Piasecki
Medical Director, The Change Companies


Melissa Piasecki, M.D. is a Forensic Psychiatrist who has widely taught and consulted in correctional psychiatry. Melissa is the Medical Director at the Change Companies where she develops training and curricula to meet the needs of correction institutions and leaders. She is also a faculty member at the National Judicial College and two medical schools. Melissa is a member of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law. She is committed to supporting healthy change in correctional professionals and the people they serve.