Individuals in carceral settings represent a highly marginalized population whose health needs are frequently overlooked or inadequately addressed due to stigma, systemic inequities, and unconscious bias. These factors can influence clinical decision-making, patient engagement, and treatment outcomes. This session will examine key clinical considerations unique to providing care in correctional environments, with a focus on recognizing and mitigating unconscious bias, improving client conceptualization, and implementing trauma-sensitive, person-centered interventions. The presenter will explore how carceral experiences, chronic stress, and prior trauma shape clinical presentation and treatment responsiveness. Through case studies and facilitated discussion, participants will apply these concepts to real-world scenarios, strengthen clinical judgment, and practice skills that support ethical, effective, and equitable care. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to enhance clinical engagement, reduce disparities, and improve outcomes for individuals receiving care in correctional settings.

Educational Objectives

• Evaluate how stigma and unconscious bias may interfere with access to trauma-sensitive, effective care in correctional settings
• Describe cultural and contextual considerations relevant to providing care for incarcerated patients
• Apply trauma-sensitive principles to the development of crisis-response strategies