Integrated Treatment Model

JRA's Integrated Treatment Model is a research-based treatment approach that utilizes cognitive-behavioral and family therapy principles. The model is tailored for use in both residential and parole programs in the JRA continuum of care.

Residential Care

In residential care, (institutions and community facilities) the model focuses on eliminating problem behaviors using behavioral analysis for targeted behavior change. The well-researched behavioral change techniques of shaping, reinforcement, extinction, and contingency management are used to help youth develop new skills. Families are invited to learn about and participate in treatment to help the youth extend their gains back into the community. Much of the theoretical basis of the residential treatment component of the Integrated Treatment Model relies on the researched-based work of Marsha Linehan, PhD, described in her 1993 book, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder. In addition to problem-solving, specific skills sets from Linehan included in the model are:

• Mindfulness
• Interpersonal effectiveness
• Emotion regulation
• Distress tolerance

Additionally, the Integrated Treatment Model draws from Aggression Replacement Training (ART) by Barry Glick.

Functional Family Parole

In community settings youth are monitored under Functional Family Parole. The treatment and intervention focus shifts to creating a more functional environment within the family where the youth resides. Research on maintaining and supporting behavior change for troubled adolescents indicates intervention is most effective if promoted within a family context. Parole staff work with families to address the role each member has in generating and ultimately resolving "problem behavior". The primary theoretical foundation for this section of the model come from James Alexander, PhD and Thomas Sexton, PhD in Functional Family Therapy, a research-based family intervention considered a "Blueprint" model from the Center for the Study and Prevention of Violence.

Functional Family Parole counselors work to engage and motivate all family members by creating a balanced alliance with each, and creating a family focus for treatment. Early interventions reduce blame and negativity among family members and instill hope for change. Families are also referred to needed services in the community that match family interaction styles and provide continued support for the family once the youth is no longer on parole.

For more information contact:
Henry Schmidt, PhD
360 902-7637
e-mail

Residential Treatment and Care Program

JRA's Residential Treatment and Care Program (RTCP) operating in the Spokane area of Eastern Washington replicates the Oregon Social Learning Center's Multi-dimensional Treatment Foster Care model. Up to 5 low risk-youth are placed in specialized foster homes in their local community as an alternative to placement in a secure JRA institution in Western Washington. The RTCP engages youth and their families in research-based treatment interventions effective in halting further penetration of youth into the justice and correctional systems. The program is managed by Lutheran Community Services under contract with JRA.

RTCP adolescents are placed singly in a foster family setting for six to nine months. Foster families are recruited, trained, and supported to provide well-supervised placement and treatment. The program provides 24-hour a day case management and coordination of all aspects of youngsters' treatment programs. Youth participate in cognitive/behavioral skill-focused individual treatment. Youth and their families (defined as biological, adoptive, or other aftercare resource; e.g., relative or other guardian) participate in weekly family therapy associated with the model. Frequent contact between youth and their family members, including home visits, are part of the program.

The RTCP requires close monitoring of the youngsters' progress in school, coordination with probation/parole officers; and psychiatric consultation/medication management, as needed.

More information about the Residential Treatment and Care Program.

For more information contact:
Rich Volke
509 363-4671
e-mail