Psychiatric Treatment in Forensic Hospital and Correctional Settings

Abstract

Many psychiatric patients are treated in forensic settings, including correctional facilities and high-security hospitals. This article provides mental health practitioners with essential knowledge about forensic settings to enhance their clinical care of patients involved with the criminal justice system. The article provides an overview of the interface between the mental health and criminal justice systems and discusses the unique aspects of psychiatric care in forensic settings, such as the need to balance treatment with security concerns and to manage patients' violence risk. The critical role of community mental health providers in the primary prevention of criminal justice involvement is also discussed. [ Psychiatr Ann. 2018;48(2):102–108.]