From Belief to Behavior: Translating Effective Intervention into Practice
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SESSION INFO

Tuesday, August 18, 2026
1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Session Type: Workshop
In community supervision, outcomes are shaped not only by policies and programs, but by the quality of everyday staff‑client interactions. This session examines how staff mindset, overarching and organizational principles, and evidence based principles work together to influence behavior change. Participants will explore the idea that every interaction is an opportunity—one that can either reinforce risk or support growth. Drawing on the principles of effective intervention and the Risk Need Responsivity framework, this interactive session highlights how belief in human change, growth oriented thinking, and intentional practice activate the impact of evidence based strategies. Through reflection and real world examples shared by both presenters and participants, attendees will leave with practical insights into how words, tone, and actions communicate messages about people, power, and possibility—and how aligning mindset creates the conditions to positively impact lives and contribute to safer communities.

SESSION PRESENTERS
Mindy Smith
Executive Director, University of Cincinnati Corrections Institute


Myrinda Schweitzer Smith received her Ph.D. from the University of Cincinnati and is the Executive Director of the University of Cincinnati Corrections Institute. Dr. Schweitzer Smith has co-authored publications, presented nationally and internationally on effective interventions, and served as a project director for over 300 projects involving program evaluation, the development and implementation of cognitive-behavioral programs for delinquency, criminality, substance abuse, employment, and sexual offending, and effective practices for community supervision and support. She serves and participates on a multitude of advisory boards and professional organizations supporting the health and wellbeing of those working in and those impacted by the justice system. Most recently, she is actively engaged in several projects that aim to transform juvenile justice, reentry practices, and community supervision to positively shape lives and safer societies.