ABSTRACT
This chapter outlines the cognitive-behavioural approach to the treatment of forensic clients, and highlights the ways in which working with offenders can be collaborative and constructive, rather than punitive and risk averse. It also highlights just how important it is to pay attention to the actual implementation of treatment in forensic settings, and further research should carefully consider the integrity of those treatments that are offered to offenders which describe themselves as cognitive-behavioural. The primary goal of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) for forensic clients is often to reduce the risk of future offending, with improvement in mental health or well-being usually considered secondary. Nonetheless, in-service training seems reasonable to assume that the quality of treatment will increase with higher levels of professional training, and Lipsey's meta-analysis of the outcomes of juvenile offender programmes shows us those which are implemented with 'high quality' are most effective.
