This third of eight checklists for the development of an evidence-based criminal justice and mental health collaboration program focuses on ensuring that the collaboration has identified its target population for the evidence-based practice (EBP) and that the selected EBPs will address individuals’ criminogenic risk factors and behavioral health needs.
The checklist has eight components. One component involves the identification of core features of the desired EBP, including determination of implementation time, staffing, selection of eligible participants, type of interventions or treatment, and any other features of the EBP that could impact implementation. The second component of the checklist is the selection of a validated instrument that measures static and dynamic criminogenic risk factors for specific populations, such as women. The third component is the selection of validated instruments that screen and assess for mental illnesses. The fourth component of the checklist is the selection of validated instruments that screen and assess for substance-use disorders. The fifth component involves reviewing research that addresses knowledge gaps among agency staff in identifying training needs for the EBP. The sixth component advises developing a program logic model that maps how the selected EBP will be implemented. The seventh component consists of training staff on risk, need, and responsivity (RNR model), including how the RNR model relates to mental illnesses, substance-use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. The eighth component of the checklist involves preparing direct-line supervisors and middle management to coach staff on implementing the EBP. Each of the eight components of the checklist provides suggestions for implementing it. 6 annotated resource listings