This article addresses difficult and unique problems in psychotherapy within the framework of a correctional setting. An apparent lack of success in such endeavors is reviewed in some detail. Barriers to therapeutic efforts within the prison setting are enumerated and reference is made to obstacles in the therapeutic alliance between psychotherapist and prison inmate. Current research suggests the value of a treatment model based on differential diagnosis and the matching of therapist and prison inmate. The need for further research on overcoming identified barriers, developing and adapting therapeutic approaches, and effectively matching inmates to them is emphasized.
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