DRCS Complete Intensive Training on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Offenders  

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 10^th October 2024 – The Department of Rehabilitation and Community Supervision (DRCS), in partnership with the Department of Correctional Services, has successfully completed an intensive three-day training on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for offenders, held from October 2-4, 2024. The training was facilitated by the renowned Association for Psychological Therapies (APT), based in the UK.

This comprehensive training provided participants with crucial skills to implement CBT techniques within their respective rehabilitation programs. The training culminated in participants receiving a 3-year certification from APT, along with access to additional resources and through the association’s online portal.

DRCS Director Jaron Harvey emphasized the importance of such capacity-building initiatives. “CBT is a proven tool in helping offenders challenge and change maladaptive behaviors and thought patterns,” said Mr. Harvey. “This training will allow us to better serve our clients and the community by equipping our teams with the skills needed to support offenders’ successful reintegration into society.”

Superintendent of Prisons, Michael Woodbine, also shared his thoughts on the value of the training, “This training will help us improve our delivery of comprehensive and meaningful sentence / care plans for prisoners in custody. Having skilled and trained staff will enhance our ability to address identified needs through an end-to-end sentence management and treatment process, helping prisoners to return to our society as better people.” Continuing Mr. Woodbine said,” This joined up approach to reducing reoffending between the Department of Corrections and the Department of Rehabilitation and Community Supervision will serve our communities well, helping us protect the public and reduce crime.”

The DRCS is proud to continue its investment in professional development, partnering with organizations like the APT to provide staff with the tools and resources needed to make lasting changes in the lives of offenders.