Population Needs and Assessment Dual Seminar Paper

, 2000; Sullivan et al., 2007).

Recidivism data typically comes from a record review and record follow-up with the probation officer of the clients. More long-term data can also be implemented in the form of clinical interviews for clients who have successfully completed their probationary periods. Probation officers are good sources of information regarding recidivism and also regarding any potential relapses and substance abuse or psychiatric issues. Variables in the analysis are typically compared to similar offenders in a treatment as usual group (e.g., Leon et al., 2000). Outcome variables of interest are alcohol or drug use, crime, HIV risk behavior, psychological symptoms, and employment status (Grella, & Shi, 2011). These variables can be operationalized such that they can be comparable both within and between groups. Within groups comparisons can look at pre/post measures of substance abuse, psychological symptoms, and employment status. Between groups measures can look at all of these variables at pre/post evaluations. A specific interest is long-term follow-up data that should extend at least 2 to 5 years (Grella & Shi, 2011).

Implications for Counselors

There are several implications for counselors. First, counselors can assess their own effectiveness in treating and dealing with very difficult conditions such as substance abuse/dependence and the more complicated dual diagnosis issue. Secondly, data can be mined to provide an idea of what interventions appear to be effective in increasing client motivation, compliance of abstinence, and assisting with psychological well-being. This data would require counselors to keep records of their interventions and successes with their clients. Finally, the broader issue of the societal benefit to counseling with these individuals could be partially answered. Good research will ask as many questions as it does answer questions. This will allow for the continued investigation into these issues and the development of more effective interventions.References

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Sullivan, C.J., Sullivan, C.J., McKendrick, K., Sacks,….....