I am so happy to report that I received the certificates of completion for a correspondence course for anger management as well as domestic violence. It was a long process to find these courses after being repeatedly denied by the Psychology Services dept. here at FCI-Aliceville. But with perseverence and determination, I found the organization that would offer the courses and allow me to participate while incarcerated.
One of the results of the First Step Act was to target the needs of those incarcerated and offer them classes that apply specifically to those needs. Unfortunately, some administrations interpret the taking of one class to have fulfilled that need. I do not agree with this interpretation, personally, nor do I think the U.S. Army will agree with this when they are evaluating me for parole/clemency. I am of the opinion that they will want to see continued and constant attempts to rehabilitate myself. Additionally, if I constantly strive to learn how to better regulate my emotions, then I know I will be better prepared for release.
I realize that these classes are not BOP “approved”, nor are they offered by a live facilitator, but I’m very hopeful that the Army will still see the effort I’m putting forward to seek treatment with favor. The other positive consequence of a correspondence course is that I have a more direct line of communication with the facilitator for my courses. We frequently discusses problems I have locally as well as situations I might run into upon release. The organization that offers these courses is mostly based on the West Coast, but thanks to zoom and remote work, I am hopeful that I will be able to continue treatment upon release with a facilitator that I already have an established rapport.
I was very fortunate to have found 2nd Call, who agreed to help me, and participate in these programs.
