Evidence-based change tools

The Change Companies® is committed to the delivery of evidence-based products and services in a cost-effective and flexible manner. We collaborate with leading researchers, innovative program managers and hundreds of current service providers to stay on the cutting edge of change research and application models. The power of Interactive Journaling® transcends any specific treatment or educational modality. Whether a program focuses on a twelve-step approach, a cognitive-behavioral model, a motivational enhancement strategy or a combination of change models, Interactive Journaling® offers a simple but dynamic delivery system for each program participant. it s the pathway individuals access to allow a change process to be understood, activated and reinforced.
 

Stories of Commitment... putting clients first

Federal Bureau of Prisons Story CHALLENGE: How does the Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons, strengthen the delivery process of its evidence-based, nine-month Drug Abuse Treatment Program which is provided to both a male and female population? SOLUTION: It was determined that Interactive Journaling® by The Change Companies® would provide a mechanism to enhance consistency and participation in the excellent Drug Abuse Treatment already established for Federal inmates. Over a period of two years, tapping into the expertise of FBOP Drug Treatment Coordinators and Specialists, two separate programs of Interactive Journals for men and women were created with accompanying facilitator guides. Training sessions followed and the revised program was successfully launched in 2001. Based on feedback a second round of edits was completed in 2005. RESULTS: Over 100,000 Federal inmates have been aided by the use of tailored Interactive Journals. An ongoing study conducted by Texas Christina University is documenting the effectiveness of the Bureau of Prisons Residential Drug abuse treatment Program.

An Integrated Treatment Program Model

Don't mistake Interactive Journaling® as merely an enhancement or "add on" to a life change program

The Interactive Journaling® process can be integrated into all dimensions of a program. It can serve as the glue that adds consistency and structure to the entire range of education/treatment activities.  

Interactive Journaling®

An Evidence-based pathway to change

Research has revealed that structured journaling can improve overall health and well-being. Whether grappling with substance abuse dependence, the stress of a career or the loss of freedom that comes with incarceration, journaling has proven to be an effective tool in helping individuals cope with challenging situations. the power of writing is that the process is immediately personal and relevant. Individuals can map out where they have been, where they are today and where they wish to go.

Building upon a body or journaling research, The Change Companies® has developed a process called Interactive Journaling®, which is a guided journaling experience that assists individuals in making life changes. To date, the Interactive Journals created by The Change Companies® have served more that 15 million individuals in the areas of treatment, corrections, impaired driving, prevention education and healthcare.

Research has revealed that change takes place in a series of stages and the application of certain change processes can assist in successful progression through these stages. Counselors, educators and group facilitators can be effective agents of change by equipping their program participants with this "roadmap" for successful change.

The Change Companies® incorporates prevailing change theory and motivational techniques into the Interactive Journals it creates. Every page we design reflects strategies or skills that build toward positive change. Furthermore, the Interactive Journaling® format provides participants with a personal and lasting tool for change that can be used long after a program experience ends.

Change Is Good
by Frankie D. Lemus, M.A.

This brief article discusses how Interactive Journaling® offers a participant-focused model for engaging and motivating individuals toward successful and lasting change. In addition to discussing the efficacy of structured journaling as a behavioral change strategy, this article demonstrates how Interactive Journals incorporate evidence-based approaches including the nine processes of change within the Transtheoretical Model of Change, Motivational Enhancement/Motivational Interviewing techniques and Cognitive-behavioral interventions and strategies