Other Programs

Moral Reconation Therapy (M.R.T.)

 

M.R.T.:  is a systemic treatment strategy that seeks to decrease recidivism among offenders by increasing moral reasoning.  M.R.T.® promotes a positive self-image and identity.  It helps offenders learn positive social behaviors and beliefs.  M.R.T. seeks to improve offenders reasoning levels from self-centered ones to those that involves concern for others and societal rules.  It draws a clear connection between thought processes and behavior. 

 

M.R.T. takes the form of group and individual counseling using structured group exercises and prescribed homework assignments.  The M.R.T. workbook is structured around 16 objectively defined steps focusing on 7 basic treatment issues;

·  Confronting of beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors;

·  Assessing of current relationships;

·  Reinforcing positive behavior and habits;

·  Facilitating identity development

·  Enhancing of self-concept;

·  Decreasing hedonism

·  Developing tolerance for delay of gratification

                                                    

M.R.T. is an evidence based program which has shown to reduce the recidivism rate of offenders from 30%-50% after 10 years of release.
 
Employment Services: The staff assists participants in job search activities and discusses various job searching strategies.  Program makes available a telephone for employment related calls and a computer for filling out online applications and employment related searches.  Staff provides an understanding of networking for employment purposes and discusses proper job search appearance and attire.  If a participant does not have proper attire, arrangements will be made for participants to receive a voucher for a local thrift store. 
 
Staff provides training on proper ways to complete applications and basic interviewing skills for successful presentation during job search. Staff explains Work Opportunity Tax Credits (W.O.T.C.) and Fidelity Bond information in order to educate participants on ways to market themselves in their job search.  Staff teaches participants how to create a proper resume.  A staff member meets individually with a participant to complete a resume for use during job search.  Program staff also provides employment retention services.  Staff initiates contact with employers through employment verifications in an attempt to build relationships. 
 
Relationships with employers serve two purposes.  One, staff can act as a liaison between participants and employers.  Two, building rapport with employers assists in placement of other job seeking participants.  Further, staff verify through employer agreements, pay stubs, phone and on site visits that employment has been obtained and maintained.