Adapting a Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Group Within a Jail Setting: Implementation Challenges and Considerations

Over 12 million admissions into local jails are logged each year, for charges ranging from misdemeanor traffic violations to felony homicide. Compared to people incarcerated in prisons, those held in jails face quicker community reentry, elevated reincarceration rates, overcrowding, and few opportunities to participate in programming. People caught in this cycle often experience many contextual and personal barriers, which include difficulty regulating their emotions, refraining from aggressive and impulsive behaviors, and communicating effectively. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has been put forth as a promising evidence-based approach that is particularly well-suited to address the risks and needs of jail populations. By helping incarcerated individuals balance the “dialectic” between acceptance of the present (e.g., coping with current incarceration) and preparation for future change (e.g., planning for community reentry), DBT can help individuals gain coping skills that are directly related to preventing reoffending. This paper describes our research team’s adaptation of a DBT skills group in a jail setting, feasibility and attrition data, and challenges and lessons learned. We highlight the value of adapting treatments in underserved settings, working closely with community partners to align goals and overcome logistical challenges, and ensuring flexibility of implementation. We believe that our experiences can provide practical insights and recommendations for both scholars and practitioners within the field.