Rehabilitation frameworks in forensic mental health

This paper examines current rehabilitation approaches to Forensic Mental Health Care. On this basis the authors identified three broad approaches to forensic mental health assessment and treatment: (1) Risk/Needs/Responsivity; (2) therapeutic models targeting individual psychopathologies; and (3) strength based models. Following a review of each model the authors conclude that strength based approaches such as the Good Lives Model has theoretical and practical advantages over the other two rehabilitation frameworks.

Research highlights► Review of rehabilitation models evident in forensic mental health settings. ► Outline of core features of a rehabilitation model. ► Argument for use of strength based models to reduce risk and enhance offenders' well-being. ► Outline of the Good lives Model as an example of a strength based rehabilitation model suitable for use in forensic mental health settings.