Valley Behavioral Health – Forensic Unit: Specialized Addiction Treatment
The Forensic Unit at Valley Behavioral Health in Salt Lake City, UT, offers specialized addiction treatment designed for individuals involved in the criminal justice system. Located at 1020 South Main Street, this unit focuses on addressing co-occurring substance use disorders and mental health challenges that often lead to or complicate legal issues. The approach recognizes the unique needs of this population, providing comprehensive care that integrates legal requirements, psychiatric stability, and recovery principles.
Integrated Care Model and Core Services
Recovery at the Forensic Unit is built upon an integrated care model, ensuring that both mental health and substance use disorders are treated simultaneously. This comprehensive strategy is crucial for achieving sustainable sobriety and reducing recidivism. Treatment plans are highly individualized, taking into account the person’s legal status, history of substance abuse, and specific clinical needs.
Key Program Components:
- Clinical Assessments and Diagnosis
- Individual and Group Therapy (CBT, DBT-informed approaches)
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid and alcohol dependence
- Relapse Prevention Planning
- Coordination with probation, parole, and court systems
- Aftercare planning and community resource linkage
Group therapy sessions are pivotal in the program, creating a supportive environment where participants can develop essential coping skills, process trauma, and learn from the experiences of others. Education on the neurobiology of addiction and its link to criminal behavior is also a strong focus, empowering clients with knowledge about their condition.
Transition and Aftercare
Successful recovery extends beyond the facility walls. The Forensic Unit places significant emphasis on preparing clients for re-entry into the community. Discharge planning begins early in the treatment process and involves securing stable housing, arranging ongoing therapy and psychiatric follow-up, and connecting clients with employment or educational opportunities. The goal is to establish a strong, recovery-oriented support system that minimizes the risk of relapse and fosters long-term stability.
FAQs About the Forensic Unit Program
What types of addiction are treated here?
The program treats a wide range of substance use disorders, including addiction to opioids, alcohol, stimulants, and other illicit substances. Treatment is tailored based on the individual’s primary substance of choice and co-occurring disorders.
Do I need a referral to enter this program?
Admission to the Forensic Unit is typically facilitated through referrals from the court system, probation officers, or other criminal justice agencies, as the program specializes in serving justice-involved individuals.
Does the program offer detox services?
While the program focuses on rehabilitation and recovery, initial clinical assessments will determine the need for detoxification. If medical detox is necessary, clients will typically be stabilized before entering the Forensic Unit’s residential or outpatient treatment phases.



