Narrative and reflection: training in a correctional facility

Abstract

This commentary describes the author’s experience working at two separate detention centres during her fellowship. She initially describes her experience performing forensic evaluations. The terms ‘competency to stand trial’ and ‘criminal responsibility’ are defined. It then describes the author’s experience working in an inner city and suburban detention centre. The two environments and patient demographics are compared to a traditional inpatient or outpatient community setting. Fictional patient encounters, based on an amalgamation of actual patients, are discussed.

Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank her clinical supervisors, Dr Annette Hanson and Dr Katherine Jou, for their clinical care and guidance while working in the correctional setting.

Disclosure statement

The author reports no conflicts of interest. The author alone is responsible for the content and writing of the paper.