Determining which Carey Guides to use is part of the case planning process, and the best case plans are ones that are developed collaboratively with the person with whom you are working. So, definitely, they can—and should—play a part in deciding which Guides to use.
Here’s a process you can follow to reach that decision:
- Begin by sharing with the person the results of their risk/needs assessment, especially their most influential criminogenic needs. (Tip: Don’t use the term “criminogenic needs” when talking with them. Instead, talk about “key life areas,” and use terms such as “thoughts and beliefs” instead of “antisocial cognition” and “friends” instead of “antisocial associates.”)
- Work together to identify their driver: the criminogenic need that most influences their illegal behavior.
- Based on your findings, develop a case plan together. Start by setting one or two goals that address the driver and another criminogenic need or stabilization factor, and develop action steps to help meet each goal. Using the Carey Guides can be one of those action steps!
By going through this process together, you will be doing more than “allowing the person to choose”; you will be working together to create a plan that will help the person be successful. And, you’ll be creating that plan in a way that allows you to build rapport, which is key to the person's success.