National Association of Court Approved Treatment Providers

In the court-mandated space, compassion without discernment will get you played.

If you work with clients on probation, parole, or diversion, you cannot afford to be naive.

Many of these clients know how to present well in evaluations. They know how to minimize. They know how to tell you just enough truth to sound believable. They know how to perform remorse. And if you are new to this field—or just naturally have a big heart—you can fall for it.

I did early in my career.

What I learned is this: the real story usually does not come out during the first evaluation. It comes out later in group sessions, class discussions, peer interactions, and patterns over time.

I have seen it in anger management, substance use, domestic violence, parenting, and shoplifting classes over and over again.

So no, do not base your recommendations only on how someone presents in front of you.

Look at the criminal history.
Look at the education history.
Look at the living situation.
Look at the mental health background.
Look at the inconsistencies.
Look at the patterns.

Use data. Use collateral information. Use your training. Use your discernment.

I believe in second chances. I am living proof of one.

But believing in second chances does not mean ignoring manipulation.

If you want to protect your reputation, your career, and the people you serve, do not let emotion drive your clinical decisions. Stay grounded in facts, patterns, and objective information.

That is how you make sound recommendations.
That is how you protect the integrity of your work.
That is how you serve justice-involved clients responsibly.

Catch us in the latest edition of Psychology Today Magazine

American Probation Parole Association Winter Symposium 2026

A gentle reminder that the clock’s ticking — go live a little. Film: HOLY MAN (1998)

Remember, if you don’t sacrifice what you want, what you want becomes the sacrifice.

Join the National Association of Court Approved Treatment Providers https://app.certemy.com/public-registry/60456be5-229d-4032-9315-b58938d67879 [place under directory -MI]

https://app.certemy.com:/entry/self-enrollments/Court-Approved-Treatment-Provider-Certification/3f8c4dcb-e271-44ac-b787-dc475161b7f5