A community-based approach to behavioral change
The Lawrence County Probation Department in rural Indiana is pioneering a unique and deeply impactful approach to community supervision. With the support of grant funding, Officer Laura Coons has spent the last eight years working exclusively with individuals on probation using Interactive Journals from The Change Companies. The result? Higher engagement, lower recidivism and a new way of thinking about rehabilitation.
A dedicated approach to supervision
Unlike many probation programs that integrate cognitive-behavioral interventions as an add-on, Lawrence County has taken a different approach. Officer Coons — a seasoned professional with nearly three decades of experience — has no formal caseload, but dedicates all of her office time to helping individuals work toward their goals and address their risk areas using Interactive Journaling®. For individuals classified as medium- or high-risk — as well as those in drug court — this structured, evidence-based approach provides a foundation for reflection and change.
With the exception of drug court participants, who are mandated to complete specific Journal topics, probationers are given the autonomy to select the Journals that best align with their personal growth areas. “I ask them, ‘What do you need to work on? Nobody knows better than you,’” Coons explains. This empowerment fosters a sense of ownership over the rehabilitation process.
More than a workbook: the power of conversation
While the Journals provide structured guidance, the sessions themselves often take on a deeper meaning. Appointments, initially met with resistance, evolve into open conversations. “Even though we’re doing the books, it’s an opening for other things,” Coons shares. “They’re in a safe place with a safe person. Even though I’m not a therapist, the discussions are really amazing.”
Many clients stay well beyond their required sessions. One individual voluntarily completed six Journals. The process encourages critical self-reflection, making individuals more aware of their own behaviors and thought patterns. “This isn’t about telling them what they need to do. It’s about guiding them to recognize what they already know but haven’t acted on.”
Results that speak for themselves
The impact of this program is measurable. Quarterly grant reports consistently reflect an 87 percent program completion rate. More compelling is the reduction in recidivism. While Indiana’s overall recidivism rate stands at 33 percent, a 2019 internal review of participants in this program showed a significantly lower reoffense rate of 20 percent.
Beyond statistics, the most telling measure of success comes from the participants themselves. During final sessions, individuals are asked to reflect on their experience. “They tell me, ‘I knew all of this, but this process brought it to the surface.’” This self-awareness is a critical first step in lasting change.
This approach is also reshaping perceptions of the justice system.
“People see that the criminal justice system isn’t the enemy here. We’re trying to help them change their lives,”explains Coons.
After working through multiple Journals and making critical life changes, one participant was pulled over by law enforcement for a broken taillight. Instead of fear, he confidently told the officer, “Search my car. I’m doing good.”
Change isn’t something that can be imposed — it’s something that individuals must choose. “We can’t change you,” Coons tells clients, “but we’re going to give you all the tools you need to start changing yourself.” Lawrence County serves as a shining example of how Interactive Journaling®, when implemented with fidelity, can drive meaningful rehabilitation. With the right tools and support, transformation isn’t just possible — it’s happening every day in Lawrence County.
Providing Interactive Journaling® To Support Probation Success
While a range of digital tools exist to support correctional staff, Atlas is the only digital resource that provides a comprehensive library of engaging risk-need-responsive content — including a multimedia library and Interactive Journals — delivered in a HIPAA-compliant, mobile-first environment.
To learn more about Atlas and how it supports justice agencies like yours, download the Justice Services Atlas overview here.