Trauma-Informed Forensic Interventions

Trauma- Informed Forensic Interventions explores the innovative wave of trauma- informed practices in forensic settings, addressing the unique challenges of implementation in environments that are often ill- suited to such approaches. Written collaboratively by forensic practitioners and service users across prison, forensic mental health, youth justice, and social care settings, this book provides practical guidance for professionals working with justice- involved individuals who commonly have extensive trauma histories.

The text establishes core principles for best practice by examining diverse settings, including male and female prisons, high security hospitals, and secure children’s homes, while addressing complex needs related to personality disorders, self- injury, sexual violence, and neonaticide. It offers practical approaches to overcome institutional barriers and reconcile Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s trauma-informed care guidelines with established forensic structures and culture.

This essential reference for forensic practitioners and students builds upon Trauma-Informed Forensic Practice, inspiring further development of trauma- informed approaches as a crucial focus in contemporary forensic work across prisons, community services, youth justice, and forensic mental health settings.

Phil Willmot, PhD, is a consultant forensic and clinical psychologist with over 30 years’ experience of working with men with a diagnosis of personality disorder in prison and forensic mental health services. He is also a senior lecturer in forensic psychology at the University of Lincoln.

Lawrence Jones is Head of Clinical and Forensic Psychology at Rampton Hospital and a former chair of the Division of Forensic Psychology in the British Psychological Society. He also teaches on the Leicester and Sheffield clinical doctorates and the Nottingham forensic doctorate.

Geraldine Akerman, PhD, is a consultant forensic psychologist who has worked in prisons for many years both for His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service and the NHS. Geraldine is a visiting lecturer at the universities of Birmingham and Buckingham, and Cardiff Metropolitan University and Director of Forensic Psychology Network.

Adam Mahoney, PhD, is an associate professor in forensic and applied psychology at Edinburgh Napier University, as well as a consultant chartered forensic psychologist. Dr Mahoney has approximately 24 years’ experience working in various forensic settings including in the Scottish Prison Service’s women’s estate.