CLINICAL SERVICES

Alvis House follows a cognitive behavioral model in working with clients. We believe that our clients have the ability to change thought patterns and behaviors which can lead to criminal choices. Alvis House promotes a social learning model where clients learn from healthy role models in a social context. Healthy interactions lead to healthy choices. Staff look for teachable moments to help clients learn the necessary skills to function well in the community.

Alvis House has prided itself in working well with special need individuals with offending behaviors. These individuals are those with developmental disabilities, gender specific issues, co-occuring mental health and substance abuse disorders, and trauma victims. We believe in performing a thorough assessment of these clients and then following what the research says works. Staff are all trained in the clinical model of application of knowledge through successful interactions with clients where clients are actively engaged in purposeful, meaningful, and relevant activities.

Alvis House continues to look for ways to actively involve staff and students in research which can advance the field. We have studied the effects of cognitive behavioral approaches on men and women in our system. We have developed a game, Equipped for Life, where clients can apply their healthy thoughts to relevant areas of life. (More information about Equipped for Life, including purchase information, may be found at Franklin Learning.