Policy Bulletin

Date:
2013-02-21

Number:
387

Policy number and title:
COMMISSIONER'S DIRECTIVE 840 – PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

Why was the policy changed?

This Commissioner's Directive dated December 1994 has been updated and revised in order to comply with the recommendations of the Policy Review Task Force regarding format and structure.

What has changed?

The updated CD clarifies roles and responsibilities, further outlines procedures and expands definitions. It provides clarification on the types of psychological services provided to offenders, for example, differentiates between mental health assessments and psychological risk assessments; and outlines the reasons and targets for assessments. It also describes procedures for the management of mental health information. The policy makes reference to the role and membership of the National Psychology Management Group and to existing guidelines, for example, the CSC Psychological Services Manual.

How was it developed?

The policy was developed in collaboration with the Strategic Policy Division, the National Psychology Management Group and the National Policy Review Team.

Accountabilities?

Assistant Commissioner, Health Services; Assistant Commissioner, Correctional Operations and Programs; Regional Deputy Commissioners; Regional Directors, Health Services; Institutional Heads, Executive Directors, Treatment Centres; District Directors and mental health professionals.

Who will be affected by the policy?

Individuals providing psychological services to offenders.

Expected cost?

None identified.

Other impacts?