Hogg Foundation for Mental Health

Teleconference: National Expert Provides Valuable Information, Resources on Reduction of Seclusion and Restraint

June 1, 2006

Ms. Kevin Ann Huckshorn was the featured speaker during a teleconference hosted by the Hogg Foundation in April as a follow-up to the Thirteenth Robert Lee Sutherland Seminar. Ms. Huckshorn is director of the National Technical Assistance Center of the National Association for State Mental Health Program Directors. As part of her job, she oversees the National Coordinating Center to Reduce and Eliminate the Use of Seclusion and Restraint.

In her presentation, Huckshorn discussed ways that agencies can reduce their use of seclusion and restraint, outlining six core reduction strategies. She also provided valuable examples of appropriate interventions and debriefing sessions. The teleconference was recorded and can be found on the foundation's website (www.hogg.utexas.edu). The PowerPoint presentation, a reference list, and a seclusion and restraint reduction plan template that she discussed during the teleconference are also posted online.

Best practices in the use of seclusion and restraint was the topic of the Thirteenth Robert Lee Sutherland Seminar, "Safe and Appropriate Behavioral Interventions: Changing the Culture of Care," in December of 2004. The seminar showcased experts from federal, state, and private organizations addressing concerns related to reducing the use of restraint and seclusion in various settings. Work groups discussed hypothetical scenarios involving the use of restraint and seclusion and detailed best practices to prevent and address situations requiring intervention.

The Hogg Foundation for Mental Health has produced a publication and accompanying CD of the proceedings of the two-day seminar. The CD contains video clips in which actors portray most of the scenarios presented in the booklet. To order a free copy of the publication and CD, please visit the foundation website. Supply is limited.