Youth Justice Psychology Services (YJPS), through a referral process, provide psychological assessment and intervention for young people who are subject to a sentenced order under the Young Offenders Act 1993. YJPS also provide consultation on behaviour support strategies for high-risk young people who are residents of the Adelaide Youth Training Centre (AYTC), and psychological assessments ordered by the Youth Court.
Assessments
YJPS assessments assist in developing case plans to aid in the rehabilitation of young people involved in the youth justice system.
YJPS assessments cover background history and patterns of offending, and may include analysis of risk, and recommendations for interventions to reduce the likelihood of further offending by a young person.
Intervention
YJPS intervention includes both individual therapy and group-based rehabilitation programs. YJPS intervention is specifically focused on addressing the underlying causes of a young person's offending behaviour, to try and reduce the likelihood of further offending.
This can include addressing issues such as:
- difficulty in managing emotions
- substance use
- mental health
- family concerns
- thoughts and beliefs that lead to offending.
YJPS prioritises young people who are at high risk of re-offending, and who have been convicted of serious offences.
