Prison Reform: A Solution for True Rehabilitation and Timely Release from Prison
My name is Dave Fisher. I enjoyed a remarkable life as a devoted father to two happy children, a homeowner, and a dedicated engineer at a technology company for 26 years. However, in 2013, I encountered an undiagnosed bipolar disorder that had a profound effect on my life. Despite recognizing changes within myself, I unfortunately did not seek timely assistance, leading to significant outcomes. As a result, I faced three counts of witness intimidation and served a ten-year sentence at the Idaho Department of Corrections
While incarcerated, I was astonished by the inefficiency of the prison system. I tried my best to understand the system and to be vigilant in finding solutions to truly rehabilitate inmates.
During my time in prison, I worked at the chapel and learned about a lesser-known peer-to-peer program from one of my co-workers. This program combined cognitive behavioral therapy with a 12-Step program which had a profound impact on him. It helped him confront his past (12-Step) and gain control over his thoughts and behaviors (cognitive behavioral therapy), ultimately eliminating his criminal thinking. Three other individuals who were also part of the program and frequented the chapel shared similar success stories of rehabilitation. The program’s psychology-based approach, incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy and the 12-Step program, was pivotal in their transformation.
As every aspect of this proposal is grounded in psychology, I proactively sought and successfully obtained endorsements from three psychologists, ensuring its strong psychological foundation. Furthermore, to ensure its logistical and practical viability within a prison setting, I have obtained an additional endorsement from Bar None, a respected organization located in Idaho committed to raising awareness about prisons, advocating for reform, and offering valuable resources to released inmates.
This proposal suggests a phased approach, starting with a small-scale pilot program for minimum custody inmates utilizing a single tier. Insights gained from this tier will guide the broader implementation across the entire prison.
In addition to offering psychology-based components for genuine rehabilitation, this proposal recognizes the importance of timely release for fully rehabilitated inmates. To address this concern, this proposal provides a method for a prompt and cost-effective psychological evaluation process to assess an inmate’s eligibility for early release.
Provide True Rehabilitation Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the 12-Step Program
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is defined as a goal-oriented psychotherapy treatment that takes a hands-on, practical approach to solve negative thinking. CBT helps individuals identify and challenge patterns of thinking that contribute to harmful or criminal behavior and develop healthier ways of responding to thoughts, emotions, and situations. In a correctional setting, CBT can support meaningful behavioral change, improved decision-making, and reduced criminogenic thinking. It is used to help individuals address a wide range of psychological and behavioral difficulties, including anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma-related symptoms, and other challenges. CBT has been studied and used in correctional settings, with research and guidance from organizations such as the National Institute of Corrections and the National Institute of Justice supporting the use of cognitive-behavioral approaches to address factors associated with criminal behavior.
The 12-Step program, widely utilized by organizations such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, Al-Anon, and Celebrate Recovery, among others, is implemented in prison settings to address negative aspects of an inmate’s past and foster accountability for their actions. In this program, inmates are required to complete four specific steps, including conducting a moral inventory of themselves, acknowledging the exact nature of their wrongdoings, creating a list of individuals they have harmed, and making amends to those individuals if possible (steps 4, 5, 8, and 9). Inmates would have the option to complete all 12 steps if they choose.
CBT is an evidence-based behavioral intervention with substantial research supporting its use in correctional and other settings. Twelve-Step programs have also been widely used to support accountability, recovery, and personal change. For the purpose of this proposal, the combined approach of CBT and the 12-Step program will be referred to as CBT-12.
Successful completion of the CBT-12 process would provide documented evidence of participation, skill development, and behavioral progress. This information could be used to support individualized case planning and, where legally applicable, future consideration of release or clemency.
In this proposal, a key emphasis is placed on inmates performing the majority of their psychological rehabilitation through interactions with each other. This approach aims to empower inmates to take an active role in their own rehabilitation without relying solely on psychologists, social workers, or case managers on a full-time basis.
Case Manager Role: Transitioning to CBT-12 Oversight
Case managers care deeply about helping inmates succeed, but they have often been limited by spending approximately four hours a day in classrooms working through generic, standard institutional materials that lack the depth needed to truly address criminal thinking. Under the CBT-12 model, their role shifts away from that repetitive coursework to actively supporting and overseeing peer-to-peer partnerships. By dropping in on sessions at least once a week, case managers can help guide progress and ensure a safe, supportive environment. This change allows them to step away from administrative routines and instead focus on what truly matters: mentoring participants and experiencing the deep job satisfaction of witnessing genuine, positive transformation under their guidance.
Create CBT-12 Pairing Based on Communication Styles and Criminal Sensitivities of Inmates
The primary goal of this matching process is to pair inmates with compatible partners who foster mutual trust, minimize conflict, and create a psychologically safe environment for intensive CBT-12 work.
Upon proposal implementation, inmates would undergo an assessment by a case manager who would develop an individually tailored CBT-12 course outline based on their criminal and personal history. Additionally, inmates would be given two short tests to increase communication compatibility between potential pairs:
- Communication-style Test: The CBT-12 pairing process would incorporate an independently developed behavioral and communication assessment designed to identify participants’ different communication and behavioral styles, including tendencies toward dominance, influence, steadiness, and conscientiousness, and use this information to identify individuals whose communication styles may be compatible. The goal would be to make communication easier, reduce interpersonal friction, encourage productive interaction, and help participants work more effectively together throughout the program.
- Criminal Sensitivities Test: This test would inquire about sensitive crimes, such as physical or sexual abuse, to identify if a person may have been a victim or perpetrator of such crimes. For instance, inmates who do not wish to associate with those who have committed sexual crimes would be paired appropriately. This ensures that inmates are paired with participants who are in acceptance of their history.
The implementation of the communication-style and criminal sensitivities tests would significantly enhance and improve communication between CBT-12 pairs.
One-On-One CBT-12 Details and Confidentiality
Typical CBT-12 sessions could be scheduled Monday through Friday with each session lasting one to two hours per day. The program is designed to be completed in approximately 3-9 months. During these sessions, inmate pairs would have the flexibility to determine the rotation of mentoring and receiving CBT-12 programming for the day among themselves.
Inmates participating in the CBT-12 program have the right to request a new partner if they feel uncomfortable with their current pairing at any time. It is crucial to prioritize the comfort and well-being of each individual within the program. Maintaining confidentiality within the CBT-12 sessions is of utmost importance. Participants are expected to maintain the confidentiality of information shared within CBT-12 sessions. Unauthorized disclosure of confidential information may result in removal from the program and may be addressed through applicable institutional disciplinary procedures. Any resulting documentation or disciplinary action would be handled in accordance with applicable IDOC policy and would not automatically determine parole or release eligibility.
This confidentiality requirement does not apply to, and does not penalize, any disclosure made to report abuse, coercion, threats, extortion, or safety concerns arising from the CBT-12 partnership. Participants are affirmatively encouraged to report such concerns to their case manager immediately, and doing so shall have no negative bearing on their standing in the program or their parole eligibility. Case managers will treat all such reports confidentially and investigate before determining next steps for either party.
For maximum program completion rates, minimizing housing reassignments that would disrupt an active CBT-12 pair is recommended where operational security permits.
Provide Support for Inmates Experiencing Difficulties in Maintaining a CBT-12 Partnership
In order to accommodate socially challenged inmates that struggle with maintaining a partner for one-on-one sessions, an introductory CBT-12 program would be implemented. It is essential to include these individuals and provide them with the necessary support to eventually transition to standard one-on-one sessions.
Participants in the introductory program will be assigned to a dedicated programming block of one to two hours per day, structured around a strict “Tablet-First, Group-Second” graduation pathway utilizing the National Institute of Corrections’ Thinking for a Change (T4C) framework. In the initial phase, socially challenged inmates utilize this daily time slot independently in their housing units or cells to complete computer-based learning modules directly on their Android tablets, mastering foundational emotional literacy and low-stakes behavioral simulations in a private, controlled learning environment. Upon verified digital completion of the prerequisite modules and the execution of a formal confidentiality agreement, inmates then graduate to physical group sessions held during this same programming hour. These group sessions would be facilitated by a CBT-12 inmate graduate who has completed the required facilitator training and received approval from the designated case manager, using a structured digital guide on their device to provide a consistent framework for curriculum delivery and reduce the need for additional staff facilitator hours.
To advance from the introductory track to a standard one-on-one or standard CBT course, an inmate’s progression is strictly governed by objective performance metrics. Advancement requires the verified completion of all digital Android tablet modules, demonstrated compliance with the group’s signed confidentiality agreement, and a competency sign-off from the CBT-12 inmate facilitator in conjunction with final approval by the designated case manager. By utilizing clear, data-driven milestones-such as active participation metrics and demonstrated mastery of core social skills-the program ensures that only individuals who have internalized the behavioral frameworks are permitted to graduate to standard CBT-12 programming.
There would be instances of inmates who do not have a suitable match for a standard CBT-12 partner. They would have the option to attend introductory CBT-12 sessions until a suitable match can be provided.
Objective Psychological Testing for Timely Release
The primary goal of this program is to ensure that inmates are released in a timely manner after successfully completing rehabilitation. To evaluate the initial rollout, a pilot program would be established using a designated minimum-custody tier. The direct involvement of a licensed psychologist is necessary during this pilot phase to independently evaluate the effectiveness of the model and establish a credible baseline for assessing program outcomes. Once proven, routine psychological tracking transitions fully to secure Android tablets
To ensure safe and defensible release decisions during the pilot program, evaluations combine targeted clinical observation with standardized psychological testing, seamlessly integrating the inmate’s completed tablet-based CBT and 12-step program data into the evaluation platform to support the assessment of risk and behavioral functioning. For each evaluation, the licensed psychologist utilizes a streamlined one-hour model: a 30-minute telehealth session conducted in a private facility room, paired with 30 minutes for data review, psychometric analysis, and comprehensive report documentation. This balanced workflow allows the psychologist to review the results and compile clear recommendations to support informed decision-making through Pearson’s secure testing platform.
Utilizing Pearson Clinical Assessment for Objective Evaluations
To ensure evaluations are conducted using standardized psychological measures, this framework would utilize appropriate Pearson Clinical Assessment instruments selected in consultation with a licensed psychologist. Pearson assessments can provide standardized psychometric data that may contribute objective information to the overall evaluation of behavioral functioning and rehabilitation progress. Pearson assessments would be securely administered through Android tablets as part of the standardized evaluation process, with results integrated into the designated evaluation system and available through secure dashboards.
Administrative Integration & Minimal-Training Staff Impact
Pilot Phase: Clinical Workflow
To establish a credible baseline and ensure rigorous evaluation, the initial rollout on the designated minimum-custody tier incorporates structured clinical oversight combined with digital psychometric testing.
By utilizing automated tablet-based psychometric data collection and self-paced CBT-12 curriculum modules, the clinical burden on facility mental health resources is reduced. The consulting psychologist’s role focuses on pre- and post-program verification, reviewing automated pre- and post-program metrics, and conducting brief 30-minute final video validation interviews for program graduates.
Technology & Software Development Investment
- Case Manager Review Dashboard ($60,000 – $100,000): Development of a secure dashboard allowing case managers to monitor CBT-12 participation, assessment results, behavioral progress, program milestones, and documented issues in real time.
- CBT-12 Curriculum Framework ($60,000 – $100,000): Development and integration of the structured CBT-12 curriculum, including digital learning modules, 12-Step programming components, participant progress tracking, and facilitator guidance.
- Thinking for a Change (T4C) Module Integration ($50,000 – $90,000): Development and integration of authorized T4C-based digital learning modules and associated progress-tracking functions within the CBT-12 platform.
- Communication & Sensitivities Testing Modules ($30,000 – $60,000): Development of the communication-style and criminal-sensitivities assessments, automated scoring functions, compatibility screening, and pairing-support features within the CBT-12 system.
- Pearson Psychometric Scoring Pipeline ($50,000 – $100,000): Development and integration of the software interface required to securely transmit, process, organize, and display Pearson assessment results within the designated evaluation and case-management system.
- Clinical & Psychological Oversight Consultation ($40,000 – $80,000): Approximately 200 to 400 total consulting hours (at an estimated $200/hour professional rate) for licensed psychologists to collaborate hand-in-hand with IT developers during development, ensuring clinical validity, proper psychometric test mapping, and appropriate scoring threshold calibration.
- Pilot Phase Clinical Oversight ($20,000): Dedicated professional services funding for the initial 100-inmate minimum-custody pilot tier, covering 100 total hours of psychologist time (1.0 hour per inmate at $200/hour) for pre- and post-program data review, verification, and final video validation interviews.
- Pearson Testing Fees ($6,000 – $9,000): Pre- and post-testing administration costs for the initial 100-inmate pilot, calculated at $30–$45 per test administration per inmate.
Provide a Path of Recovery for Inmates Who Require Further Attention Following Psychological Evaluation
If an inmate’s psychological evaluation identifies concerns requiring further attention, the system would notify the case manager and document the results for appropriate follow-up. The case manager could review the standardized assessment results through the designated Pearson dashboard and use the available data to determine appropriate next steps, such as assigning additional CBT-12 modules, behavioral interventions, or other institutional resources.
Determine the Appropriate Legal Procedure for Releasing Inmates After Passing Psychological Testing
The legal path for an inmate’s early release after successfully completing the CBT-12 curriculum and passing psychological testing depends entirely on the structure of their original sentence: fixed time (determinate) or indeterminate time.
When a judge imposes a fixed-term sentence, the inmate is not eligible for parole until the determinate portion of the sentence has been completed. Because Idaho Criminal Rule 35 provides a limited period for seeking a sentence reduction, an inmate who demonstrates substantial rehabilitation after that period may require another legally authorized procedure to seek a reduction of the remaining sentence.
- Joint Petition for Sentence Modification (Fixed Time): Defense counsel and the state prosecuting attorney could, where legally authorized, utilize an appropriate joint petition or other judicial procedure to present documented evidence of substantial rehabilitation. The petition could include standardized psychological assessment results, documented CBT-12 completion, behavioral progress, and other relevant rehabilitation records for consideration by the sentencing court. If the court determines that a sentence reduction is legally available and appropriate, it could consider reducing the remaining fixed term, including to time served where authorized.
- Parole Board & Clemency Jurisdiction (Indeterminate Time): Once an inmate completes the determinate portion of the sentence, the inmate becomes eligible for consideration for parole by the Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole. Successful completion of the CBT-12 program, documented behavioral progress, and standardized psychological assessment results could provide additional evidence for the Commission’s consideration when evaluating parole eligibility and release. For inmates seeking a reduction of their sentence before completing the determinate portion, the inmate may submit a Petition for Commutation through the institutional case manager. Idaho’s current commutation process allows a petitioner to request a reduction of the fixed portion of a sentence, subject to Commission review and applicable law.
Benefits of CBT-12 and Psychological Testing
- Projected Financial & Institutional ROI: Assuming a 50% rehabilitation and program-success rate, the proposed framework could potentially reduce correctional operational costs through reduced bed utilization and improved population management. A preliminary scenario-based estimate projects potential savings of approximately $175 million under this assumption; actual savings would depend on participation, rehabilitation outcomes, release decisions, and resulting changes in facility population.
- Elimination of Ineffective Legacy Programs: Replaces costly, case-manager-led legacy programs—such as traditional Cincinnati-based cognitive workbooks and curricula—that consume millions in state funding annually while struggling with heavy staffing bottlenecks and inconsistent rehabilitative outcomes.
- Immediate Executive Implementation: Requires zero new legislation or congressional approval, allowing correctional departments to deploy the framework immediately through administrative authority.
- Repatriation of Out-of-State Inmates: Reduces the financial and logistical burden of housing inmates in private or out-of-state facilities by creating additional local bed capacity as local populations decrease.
- Streamlined Institutional Workflow: Minimizes additional administrative demands by utilizing automated workflows and a streamlined one-hour clinical evaluation process
- Dual-Valve Release Support: Provides standardized behavioral and psychological data to support informed release and sentence-reduction decisions for both fixed and indeterminate sentences.
- Built-In Peer Accountability: Integrates peer mentoring from inmates who have successfully cleared the program, reinforcing positive behavioral norms and supporting a safer institutional environment.
- Pro-Social Skill Acquisition: Utilizes evidence-based cognitive restructuring to improve emotional regulation, develop constructive coping skills, and support long-term community re-entry.
- Enhanced Long-Term Public Safety: Supports informed community re-entry by providing documented behavioral and rehabilitative information for individuals released from custody and by using evidence-based cognitive restructuring to support successful re-entry and reduce factors associated with recidivism.
- Cultural Transformation: Shifts the institutional paradigm by actively instilling in inmates the belief that the correctional system is designed to foster personal growth, accountability, and success rather than merely inflicting punishment.
Incorporate Mentoring by Inmates Who Have Successfully Completed Psychological Evaluation
After successfully passing psychological testing, the process of filing for release may take a considerable amount of time. During this waiting period, inmates would have the opportunity to further develop their leadership and speaking skills by serving as mentors to their fellow inmates on the tier. This mentoring role not only benefits the mentees but also has a positive impact on the mentors themselves, improving their self-esteem and confidence through the act of helping others.
Mentors would have the responsibility of conducting practical social and life skill classes for their peers. These classes would cover a range of subjects, including parenting, relationships, socializing and friendship, finances, entrepreneurship, and addiction recovery, among others. The mentors would have the flexibility to choose the topics in which they feel the most experienced.
Mentoring classes would be scheduled for at least 15 minutes and take place on two days during the week. However, it is important to note that all mentoring classes would need to be approved by the case manager on the tier.
Incorporate Animals into our Prison System
Introducing dogs into the majority of tiers within the prison system has the potential to significantly improve the mental health and well-being of inmates. Interacting with animals is known to have therapeutic benefits, offering comfort, companionship, and a source of emotional support. Additionally, the demanding nature of the CBT-12 program may place a mental strain on inmates, making it essential to provide them with opportunities to decompress and recover.
To ensure the success of such a program, it would be important to collaborate with local animal shelters. By partnering with these shelters, animals that would otherwise be euthanized can be given a second chance at life while simultaneously benefiting the inmates.
To manage the implementation of the program, a liaison between the animal shelter and the prison would be necessary. This individual would take on responsibilities such as coordinating spaying and neutering procedures for the animals, addressing any medical issues, ensuring vaccinations are up to date, and providing necessary supplies such as toys, carriers, bowls, beds, and food.
It’s important to consider the needs of all inmates, including those who may have allergies or personal preferences that make them unable or uncomfortable to interact with animals. Therefore, some tiers within the prison could be designated as “animal-free” to accommodate these individuals.
While implementing such a program brings numerous benefits, one has to acknowledge that it poses logistical challenges. Therefore, careful planning and gradual implementation would be necessary. Immediate implementation may not be feasible due to the need for proper infrastructure, resources, and staff involvement. However, despite the logistical complexities, the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile endeavor.
Thank You for your Time and Consideration in this Matter
