Colorado Probation Services Cognitive Behavioral Groups Program

LeCroy & Milligan Associates is currently conducting a three-year evaluation of the Colorado Probation Services Cognitive Behavioral Groups Program. The project includes both a process and outcome evaluation and will examine program fidelity as well as the impact that the initiative is having on probationers’ stages of change. The evaluation will also examine the implementation of the program with regard to facilitator training and on-going support. The results of the evaluation will be used to inform any revisions or modifications to the program as well for the development of any similar initiatives. The final report is expected to be completed by July 2011. The Colorado Probation Service introduced a program to deliver cognitive skills to probation clients in order to positively impact attitudes, behaviors, decision making, and recidivism. The program itself is designed to provide both youth and adults with an opportunity to participate in an intensive cognitive skills course delivered by probation staff. The program is delivered across the state of Colorado and is based on a number of recognized curricula including Thinking for a Change and Why Try.