Overcoming Addiction: Getting Inmates on the Path to Life-long Sobriety

If every police chief in the U.S. was granted a wish from a magic genie, chances are they would all be the same: Put an end to substance abuse.

Countless studies and research have confirmed it to the point where it’s now common knowledge. The abuse of drugs, alcohol and other substances leads more individuals into crime and incarceration more than any other factor. As a company committed to meeting higher expectations and producing better outcomes for its government partners, CCA’s inmate substance abuse program is critically important.

CCA’s own research, combined with the findings of countless university and private think-tank studies, shows that the most effective approach is to change the basic thinking patterns that lead to a destructive life of substance abuse.

CCA is a member of the National Association for Addiction Treatment Professionals (NAADAC), the largest membership organization for those whose professionals are devoted to helping those suffering from and working to overcome substance abuse. CCA takes a number of special steps to aid its staff members who help inmates locked in the grip of substance abuse to beat the odds.

Intensive and innovative company-paid training for addictions treatment professionals helps CCA recruit and retain the best and brightest in this specialty. Becoming a NAADAC-approved education provider is not an easy process. To do so, CCA presented a 600-page plan outlining the company’s philosophy, approach, practices and methods in addiction treatment. The result is a state-of-the-art program within every CCA facility with access to the latest information on trends and treatment options in this critically important field.

Residential Drug Abuse Program

CCA’s residential drug-abuse program (RDAP) takes place in a separate residential unit away from the general population. Participating inmates must uphold high standards of accountability and conduct, including participation in individual and group counseling as well as assigned job roles and responsibilities.

The program is administered by highly trained professionals with a commitment to stay on top of the latest research and information available on best practices and ways to achieve results. Providing solutions for inmates with substance abuse issues is their only job, and they do it well. Their approach begins with an initial screening and continues with an individualized assessment and a customized treatment plan. Treatment happens in a supportive environment where peer-to-peer communication works hand-in-hand with staff guidance and leadership.

Staff members in CCA’s RDAPs approach the treatment of substance abuse by working to change the faulty thinking patterns that lead individuals from experimentation to addiction and eventually to criminal behavior.

Treatment themes include:

  • Orientation to treatment
  • Rational thinking
  • Criminal lifestyle
  • Lifestyle balance
  • Living with others

Together, these modes enable inmates to understand the factors precipitating their turn to drugs. As a result, they learn to make better choices and deal with negative thinking patterns and behaviors.

After/Continuing Care

Like any effective program, the RDAP is judged on its results. Clinical testing and follow-ups help our professionals monitor individuals following treatment and use the results to improve programs for the future.

Support Groups

Support groups are offered to offenders who recognize a need for additional help along the road to personal recovery. These include: