Treatment Models and Definitions:

The following alphabetical list of Treatment Models and Definitions for treating sex offenders was developed by the Safer Society Program as a guide to selecting a model that best defines the work done by Sexual Offender Treatment Providers.

• Bio-Medical
  The primary emphasis is on the medical model, disease processes, with a major emphasis on treatment with medication.
• Cognitive/Behavioral
  A comprehensive structured treatment approach based on sexual learning theory using cognitive restructuring methods and behavioral techniques. Behavioral methods are primarily directed at reducing arousal and increasing pro-social skills. Peer groups and educational classes are employed. Draws from a variety of counseling theories.
• Family Systems
  The primary emphasis is on family therapy and the inclusion of family members in the treatment process. Draws from a variety of counseling theories.
• Psychoanalytic
  The primary emphasis is on client understanding of the psychodynamics of sexual offending, usually through individual treatment sessions using psychoanalytic principles.
• Psycho-Socio-Educational
  A structured program utilizing peer groups, educational classes, and social skill development. Does not use behavioral methods. Draws from a variety of counseling theories.
• Psychotherapeutic (Sexual Trauma)
  The primary emphasis is on individual and/or group therapy sessions addressing the client's own history as a sexual abuse victim and its relationship to subsequent perpetuation of others. Draws from a variety of counseling theories.
• Relapse Prevention (RP)
  A three-dimensional, multi-modal approach specifically designed to help clients maintain behavioral changes by anticipating and coping with the problem of relapse. Relapse Prevention:
  1. Teaches clients internal self-management skills
  2. Plans for an external supervisory component
  3. And provides a framework within which a variety of behavioral, cognitive, educational and skill training approaches are prescribed in order to teach the sexual offender how to recognize and interrupt the chain of events leading to relapse

The focus of both assessment and treatment procedures is on the specification and modification of the steps in this chain, from broad lifestyle factors and cognitive distortions to more circumscribed skill deficits and deviant sexual arousal patterns. The focus is on the relapse process itself.

• Sexual Addiction
  A structured program using peer groups and an addiction model. Often includes 12-Step and Sexual Addiction groups.

Why Sex Offenders Should Be Treated:

1. Public Safety - The majority of sex offenders eventually return to the community. It is imperative that community corrections programs use treatment as an adjunct to supervision and thereby increase safeguards for the community.
2. Victims - Treated offenders are more likely to make restitution efforts and be available to contribute to the victim's treatment process.
3. Cost Effective -Sex offender treatment is cost effective. A 1% reduction in recidivism pays for the treatment of all treated sex offenders by reducing costs related to investigation, trials, incarceration, victims, and supervision. Any further reduction in recidivism results in cost savings to the state.

How Sex Offenders Should Be Treated:

1. Sanctions Paired with Treatment Availability - All adjudicated sex offenders should be evaluated for suitable treatment. Programs should use research supported models. Treatment may include options for voluntary psycho-pharmacological options as indicated by the treating professional.
2. Treatment Approach - Sex offender treatment is different from traditional psychotherapy. It is more confrontive, directive, structured, and focused. Information is shared with other treatment team members, including justice officials.
3. Accountability - Sex offender treatment forces offenders to face the consequences of their behavior on their victims and society.
4. Community Supervision - Sex offender treatment enhances specialized community supervision for paroled and probated sex offenders by monitoring high risk behavior.
5. Juvenile Sex Offenders - Most sex offending begins during adolescence. The earlier treatment is offered, the more likely it is to prevent continual sexual offending. Upon first referral to authorities, suspected juvenile sex offenders should be evaluated by a qualified treatment provider. Where appropriate, treatment should be available.
6. Treatment Providers - Sex offender treatment requires specialized training and should be conducted by Registered or Affiliate Sex Offender Treatment Providers.
7. Mutual or Self-Help Groups - Mutual help groups are not a substitute for treatment. Their most appropriate role is in aftercare, following intensive, specialized treatment.