Reentry Readiness Among Women With Mental Health Conditions: Implications for Rehabilitation Counselors

Abstract

The presence of mental health conditions increases vulnerability to unsuccessful reentry outcomes upon release from incarceration. Women with histories of mental health conditions make up a considerable proportion of the female correctional population. Rehabilitation counselors (RCs) are increasingly likely to support women with incarceration histories despite minimal research on correctional populations in the field. Reentry readiness is one area that could benefit from rehabilitation counseling professionals’ unique training. The construct of readiness has been associated with successful outcomes in a variety of contexts, including employment, education, and treatment. This study surveyed a sample of 123 women preparing for release from a state correctional facility to examine the relative contributions that perceived self-efficacy, optimism, and motivation to change have on reentry readiness, and whether the presence of a mental health condition made any further contributions. Results from the hierarchical regression analysis showed self-efficacy and optimism were significant contributors to perceived reentry readiness. The presence of a mental health condition made no further contributions. Implications for RCs working in reentry and/or with clients who have incarceration histories are discussed. Curriculum considerations for RC education programs are also explored.