ABSTRACT
This chapter provides speech and language therapy intervention advice which is aimed at the specific needs of people with speech, language and communication needs within the criminal justice system. Topics include the communication environment, how to have conversations about risk, joint goal setting and outcome measures. A solution-focused approach is outlined in order to increase the potential for change when working with a client group who may be demotivated by their circumstances.
A range of frameworks are presented in order to help the speech and language therapist (SLT) link intervention to rehabilitation, including the theory of change model, positive behaviour support, communicative competence and a resilience framework.
Interventions, such as narrative work and Lego therapy, are discussed and conceptualised with practice examples. A case is made for SLTs to undertake interventions aimed at supporting people who experience intense emotions, to understand how these emotions impact on their interaction style.
Person-centred care, collaboration, empowerment and the importance of meeting the person via therapeutic alliance to support change are discussed. Practical resources are presented to support the clinician in conducting interventions.
