VSP sees success with START NOW

May 29, 2025

In August 2024, Valley State Prison (VSP) in Chowchilla was one of two institutions chosen to implement the START NOW group in their enhanced outpatient program (EOP).

START NOW was developed for use in correctional settings to address patients who experience mood dysregulation, impulsivity (including self-injurious behaviors), aggression, addictions and interpersonal difficulties. Participants actively engage with facilitators during each session and utilize workbooks to reinforce the skills taught during each group.

“I was initially skeptical when preparing for the group, as the materials seemed somewhat superficial,” said Dr. Palmer from VSP. “My view changed, however, after seeing the participants really engage and benefit from the content. The participants also challenged me to engage in the process, so I grew as a clinician as well. It reaffirmed my belief that mental health can indeed help and have a positive impact on those who are ready to grow and recover.”

The group facilitators and participants at VSP celebrated with a graduation for the completion of the 32-week program in late March. The graduates were rewarded with certificates of completion and donuts.

START NOW uses cognitive behavioral therapy

“In the beginning of START NOW, I learned about accountability,” said one of the participants. “That wasn’t new to me, but the emphasis by the facilitators really resonated with me. And that was the key to my success.”

Co-facilitator Dr. Mabry said the program uses cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques.

“I’ve really enjoyed co-facilitating the group. It uses a comprehensive workbook of CBT strategies to target problematic thoughts and behaviors through group interaction and individual exploration. Though we had some attrition, the patients who remained were a positive, supportive force for one another. I also appreciated that patients were able to consume and integrate the material while processing their individual stories/anecdotes throughout,” Mabry said. “Some patients said they would like to repeat the course, hoping to reinforce the concepts a second time. I agree it was a success, and I look forward to teaching the next cycle of this group.”

START NOW will be offered in additional enhanced outpatient programs statewide this summer.

Story by Gretchen Huntington, Psy.D
Chief Psychologist, Inpatient Referral Unit
California Correctional Health Care Services
Submitted by Lt. A. Salas, Valley State Prison