ID: NEWS-23012025 23 Jan 2025

Dr. Elizabeth Falcon to Share Insights on Gender-Responsive Care in Keynote Address

In an exclusive interview, Dr. Elizabeth Falcon, a pioneering force in correctional and forensic psychology, shares her vision for transforming women's mental healthcare in correctional facilities.

 
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With over two decades of experience spanning more than 200 facilities across 27 states, Dr. Falcon brings unprecedented expertise to the conversation about gender-responsive care in the criminal justice system. Dr. Falcon's upcoming keynote presentation at the Women in Corrections Conference will address critical aspects of women's correctional mental health care, drawing from her extensive experience in developing and implementing evidence-based programs. Her work has included collaborations with major facilities such as the Cook County Jail in Chicago and the Maricopa County Detention Facilities in Phoenix.
 
"The unique psychological and social challenges faced by incarcerated women demand a fundamentally different approach," states Dr. Falcon. "We need to move beyond one-size-fits-all solutions and implement gender-sensitive, trauma-informed care that acknowledges women's distinct pathways to incarceration."
 
"One of the most promising developments I've observed is the growing adoption of gender-responsive and trauma-informed design in new correctional facilities. These architectural innovations go beyond mere functionality – they create spaces that actively promote healing and rehabilitation."
 
The presentation will explore several key themes, including the implementation of the Bangkok Rules, which set international standards for the treatment of women prisoners. Dr. Falcon emphasizes the importance of comprehensive staff training, understanding trauma-informed care and fostering cultural sensitivity as essential components for creating effective support systems. A particular focus of Dr. Falcon's work has been integrating family-centred care and community reintegration strategies.
 
"Many incarcerated women are primary caregivers, and maintaining family connections is crucial for their rehabilitation and successful reentry into society," she notes.
 
As a member of the International Corrections and Prisons Association and an active participant in the National Sheriffs Association's committees, Dr. Falcon continues to advocate for systemic changes in correctional mental health care. Her role as a Technical Resource Provider for the Department of Justice and the National Institute of Corrections has allowed her to influence policy and practice at the highest levels.
 
"Looking ahead, we must embrace innovation while remaining grounded in evidence-based practices," Dr. Falcon concludes. "The future of correctional mental health care depends on our ability to create more compassionate, equitable, and effective systems that truly serve the needs of incarcerated women."
 
Dr. Falcon's keynote presentation promises valuable insights for correctional administrators, mental health professionals, and policymakers working to improve the outcomes of women in the criminal justice system.