The program has two staff deployment tracks, unit staff and treatment staff, and can accommodate up to 86 inmates. Of 81 women in the program as of July 1993, 39 were white, 40 were black, one was American Indian, and one was Asian. Program staff estimate that about 70 percent of Atwood inmates are in prison due to drug-related crimes. The most frequent drugs used by inmates include crack and powder cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine. The program philosophy is based on the belief that drug addicts can make meaningful changes in their lives, and the goal is abstinence from all mood-altering drugs including alcohol. The program combines cognitive behavioral training, intervention, 12-step services, peer support, rational emotive therapy, and rational behavioral therapy. These techniques emphasize criminal thinking, attitude formation, relapse prevention, and lifestyle changes. Program services encompass medical care, AIDS testing and counseling, individual and group psychotherapy, job training and placement, vocational rehabilitation, legal services, and peer and 12-step support groups. The program is divided into four phases which last 3 months each: (1) assessment; (2) criminal lifestyle module; (3) improved relationship skills; and (4) relapse prevention. In addition, the program offers prerelease and aftercare activities, is sensitive to gender and diversity issues, and uses recovering staff as role models.
Atwood Program, Lexington Federal Medical Center
NCJ Number
152199
Date Published
1994
Length
17 pages
Annotation
The Atwood Program is a residential drug treatment program for female inmates at the Federal Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky.
Abstract
Date Published: January 1, 1994