(BOP) - Maximum security inmates with personality disorders and a history of self-injurious behavior or with a history of not functioning effectively in a prison setting have new programming opportunities in federal prisons. The Secure STAGES Program, modeled after the Stages Program that was developed at the Federal Correctional Complex (FCC) Terre Haute, has been expanded to the United States Penitentiary (USP) Florence where it has been well received. This residential treatment program targets inmates who have historically been difficult to manage in the prison environment, and provides them an opportunity to address their mental illness and learn skills needed to function effectively in prison and the community.
Secure STAGES has a locked side and an open side, thereby allowing inmates to participate in treatment while they are enhancing their ability to function in a more open setting. While in the program, which lasts for a minimum of 12 months, inmates learn to manage intense emotions, use rational thinking, and build positive relationships.
Aaron Stone, one of the 12 participants in the program at USP Florence, finds the program extremely beneficial: "[The] Secure STAGES Program has been everything to me; given me hope and optimism for the future." Brian Murray, another participant, also finds the program effective: "Secure STAGES is highly beneficial to one's needs to gain the proper tools to join society and to be productive while incarcerated."