Valley State Prison (VSP) recently completed its annual cross training event conducted by Division of Rehabilitative Programs (DRP). The training was held at the Fresno County Department of Social Services in Clovis. University of California, San Diego’s (UCSD) Center for Criminality and Addiction Research, Training, and Application (CCARTA) facilitated the training.
More than 50 staff members, including Correctional Counselors and Treatment Providers, participated in the event. The training aimed to integrate Substance Use Disorder Treatment with Cognitive Behavioral Interventions through cross-training. This enhances understanding and collaboration among professionals.
Dr. Igor Koutsenok and Retired CDCR Captain Stephen Zanini led the training sessions. They emphasized building trust, open communication, and strong working relationships. The training exemplified that a comprehensive understanding of each professional’s duties, responsibilities, and objectives contributes to a program’s overall success. By learning about each other’s roles, the participants could foster a collaborative environment that supports effective treatment and maintains safety and security within the institution.
Arturo Buitron Jr., Correctional Counselor III, noted the positive feedback from participants. He highlighted that staff found the training to be highly beneficial in fostering a collaborative working environment, balancing safety, security, and rehabilitation goals, and ultimately supporting the department’s mission.
Story submitted by Lieutenant H. Gastelum, AA/PIO
Valley State Prison
See more stories about CDCR facilities, training and jobs.
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
Related content
SQRC recruiters visit Lunar New Year festivities
Millbrae came alive during the annual Lunar New Year Parade and celebration with San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC) recruiters on…
Watch: Harvest of the Month: Local, fresh, produce
In recognition of National Nutrition Month, CDCR is highlighting its Harvest of the Month (HOTM) program. HOTM is a joint…
WSP‑RC recruiters attend middle school career fairs
Wasco State Prison-Reception Center (WSP-RC) attended college and career fairs at two middle schools in Wasco. The late February and…
Watch: Two staff graduate Innovation Fellows program
Two CDCR employees have graduated the first cohort of the Governor’s Innovation Fellows program. Samantha Kissane and Chris Siino, both…
CSP‑Solano Honor Guard trains with CPOF
The Correctional Peace Officers Foundation (CPOF) invited the Honor Guard team from California State Prison (CSP) Solano to their annual…
VSP recruiters attend Fresno’s Support Blue Run
On behalf of the Peace Officer Recruitment Unit, Valley State Prison (VSP) recruiters proudly participated in the annual Support Blue…