Bridgewater State Hospital

Recovery Solutions was awarded a contract through a competitive solicitation process to transform Bridgewater State Hospital (BSH) from a custody-oriented to a treatment-oriented model in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Correction. RS assumed operations in March 2017.

Along with acting as a pre-doctoral practicum and APA internship inpatient rotation site, BSH has a postdoctoral fellowship in forensic psychology for psychology graduates looking to further specialize in forensic assessment. The fellowship is designed to provide advanced training in the specialized area of forensic psychology, with an emphasis on forensic mental health assessment. The objective is to provide training in forensic psychology that is both empirically and practically relevant. Given the interdisciplinary nature of the forensic field, and its increasing expansion into other arenas of psychology, it is our philosophy that a proficient forensic psychologist not only exudes exceptional psycho-legal competence but also embodies well-rounded abilities as a researcher and clinician. We believe these skills complement each other and achieve a holistic impact. With this in mind, our training model is designed to provide advanced educational, research, and practical training that will carry real-world professional benefits. Fellows will gain experience in forensic assessment in criminal and civil contexts such as competence to stand trial, criminal responsibility, violence risk assessment, and aid in sentencing. Additionally, fellows will have opportunity to provide expert testimony to courts in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and to complete research in an area of interest. Click here to view the BSH Forensic Psychology Fellowship Brochure for more information.

• Interviewed, hired, and completed comprehensive orientation for 400+ staff within 60 days
• Dramatic reduction in the use of restraint and seclusion by more than 90%
• Closed the Intensive Treatment Unit for highest risk persons served on Day One
• Implemented evidence-based programming, including cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and illness management and recovery
• Implemented our electronic medical record to manage persons served care in the treatment program
• Collaborated with the Department on plan to renovate physical plant to provide a more therapeutic treatment environment