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Individuals linked with the criminal justice system, particularly people with lived experience of alcohol and other drug (AOD) dependence, are vulnerable to relapse and recidivism without appropriate, person-centred care. Such populations experience intersectional barriers, challenges and stigma in seeking care, and therefore there needs to be strong collaboration between the AOD sector and ACT Corrections staff in ensuring individuals are supported by trauma informed, specialist therapeutic care and AOD counselling.
Karralika provides community-based Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Counselling Services for individuals linked with the criminal justice system in the ACT. Funding provided by CHN, ACT’s PHN, to Karralika Programs supports the employment of one counsellor to deliver the service. Karralika is addressing specialist AOD use needs for those in contact with the justice system through flexible models of care. In 2023, Karralika Programs was supported by CHN to continue to employ a specialised AOD Case Manager who has provided invaluable, holistic support to program participants that extends beyond therapeutic counselling.
The program has continued to thrive, and the establishment of strong collaborative relationships with ACT Corrections staff in the community and the Alexander Maconochie Centre continues to provide programs and support to people at-risk of poor health outcomes. Both new and existing clients receive ongoing support, overcoming challenges associated with their alcohol and other drug use and linking criminogenic factors through a mix of face to face, telehealth and online support to meet their individual needs and circumstances. The service continues to experience high demand, with a notable increase in referrals in each quarter. Over the last year, 123 new clients associated with the criminal justice system were supported by Karralika to access AOD counselling services based on harm minimisation.
Client story
Dylan (not their real name) was referred by their Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC) Case Manager. Dylan has been involved with the justice system for many years and has been incarcerated at the AMC previously.
The Karralika AOD Counsellor met with Dylan in preparation for their release. Dylan had a history of substance use, which escalated after a loved one passed away. He had no prior experience of AOD treatment and his lifelong symptoms may suggest deeper mental health issues. The Counsellor identified lack of impulse control and risk-taking behaviour, as demonstrated by his occasional recreational drug use in the past.
Initial sessions were focussed on creating a therapeutic alliance and creating a collaborative, initial relapse prevention plan which highlighted risks; protective factors; short- and long-term goals; a timeline of steps and daily protective behaviours as well as supports. Dylan was supported to engage with the ACT Corrective Services (ACTCS) Psychologist, which he found extremely helpful. Treatment modalities included psychoeducation, harm minimisation, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), somatic awareness and relaxation techniques and mindful self-compassion. Dyaln engaged in a total of 8 counselling sessions.
Dylan is progressing well and is on track with many of his personal and life goals, including maintaining his driver’s licence and employment, spending regular time with his children, and pursuing recreational hobbies and sports. He has engaged with the ACTCS Psychologist and have found it very beneficial. Dylan believes Karralika was pivotal in his success in transitioning back into the community.
