Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026

A Computerized Functional Skills Assessment and Training Program Targeting Technology Based Everyday Functional Skills
Published on: February 13, 2020
Efficacy of a Mental Health Treatment Court with assertive community treatment
Merith Cosden1, Jeffrey Ellens, Jeffrey Schnell
1University of California, Santa Barbara 93106, USA. cosden@education.ucsb.edu
Abstract:
This study examined the efficacy of a Mental Health Treatment Court (MHTC) with diversion to treatment supported by an assertive community treatment (ACT) model of case management. A total of 235 participants were randomly assigned to either MHTC or treatment as usual (TAU) and assessed over a 2 year period. It was hypothesized that participants in the MHTC would decrease their criminal activity and improve their psychosocial functioning relative to participants receiving TAU. While there were offenders for whom neither treatment was effective, a majority in both groups decreased jail days and improved psychosocial functioning, with MHTC participants demonstrating greater gains in most areas. The impact of implementing the MHTC on community practices, and the value of integrating criminal justice and mental health systems, is discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Community Based Intervention
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...
Electroconvulsive Therapy
Cognitive Therapy
Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy
Elements Crucial for Effective Psychotherapy
The Therapeutic Alliance
The therapeutic alliance refers to the relationship between the therapist and the client. The alliance strengthens when the therapist and the client engage in a nurturing, supportive, trusting, empathetic, and respectful relationship, improving therapeutic outcomes. Therapists must monitor this relationship...
Modeling in Therapy
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
