The Effects of Correctional Environments on Correctional Mental Health Professionals: A Phenomenological Qualitative Study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Despite their role on the frontlines of mental health services in the U.S., there is a paucity of research on the correctional mental health workforce. This article reports the findings of a phenomenological, qualitative study that explores how correctional mental health professionals perceive the effects of working in correctional environments. Qualitative interviews were conducted with correctional mental health professionals in Colorado (n = 22). Theoretical considerations on the experiences of correctional mental health professionals including burnout, trauma/secondary trauma, dehumanization, moral injury, corrections fatigue, and post-traumatic growth. Findings reveal that correctional mental health professionals’ experiences fall into five thematic categories: 1—relationships between mental health and corrections, 2—absence of clinical supervision, 3—harms of the correctional environment, 4—“a different world:” professional isolation, and 5—the power of purpose. Narrative excerpts from the participants are provided throughout to illustrate study themes. Study strengths and limitations, directions for future research and practice implications are also discussed.