ABSTRACT
In this chapter, I explore the interface between mental health and criminal justice systems from the context of working as a clinical psychologist in forensic services within the NHS mental health system. I explore the problems within the current system and argue that mental health services need to focus clearly on the needs of the distressed individual and leave policing and dealing with violence or harm to others to the criminal justice system. Within the current coercive and policing system, the power relations involved seriously limit the potential for empowering therapeutic work with clients. I explore the relation of anger to the experience of powerlessness, both materially (structurally) and psychologically (in relation to trauma). I argue for the necessity of working therapeutically in a way that does not compound the powerlessness already experienced by the client. To translate this principle into practice, I explain how person-centred therapy (PCT) minimises the chances of the client experiencing further powerlessness in the therapy relationship. I describe how I try to work with this model with clients in forensic services whilst balancing my responsibilities to my clients and to protecting the public. I describe the potential benefits of working using person-centred therapy (PCT), both to the individual clients and to those around them. Finally, I set out the limitations of these benefits caused by the conflict of interests in the current system.
