How to Find a Therapist That Specializes in Ex-Convicts
Dr. Andrea Wagner
on
April 30, 2025
A Guide to Getting the Support You Deserve After Incarceration
Getting out of federal prison or jail is a major step — but it’s only the beginning of your new life. The truth is, many ex-prisoners struggle to adjust. The world keeps moving, and you’re expected to catch up fast, even if you’re still carrying trauma, addiction, or stress from time served.
If you’re looking to find a therapist who truly understands the challenges newly released prisoners face, you’re not alone. And you don’t have to do it alone. At Redeemed Mental Health in Newport Beach, California, we specialize in helping people just like you — men and women who’ve been through the criminal justice system, who want something better, and who are ready to get the help they were never offered inside. Our program, led by Dr. Andrea Wagner, is designed to provide real mental health support, not judgment.

Why You Need a Therapist Who Understands the Justice System
A lot of therapists are trained in general mental health issues, but working with ex-prisoners requires something more — someone who understands the effects of incarceration, probation, parole, and the stigma that comes with it.
At Redeemed, we work with:
People recently released from jail or federal prison
Clients dealing with substance abuse or relapse
Individuals coping with trauma, depression, or anxiety disorders
Family members looking for ways to support a loved one
Clients in need of case management, legal referrals, or reentry services
Those rebuilding their relationships, career, and place in the community
What to Look For in a Therapist for Ex-Convicts
When you’re trying to find a therapist, keep an eye out for someone who:
Has experience working with criminal justice system involvement
Understands mental health concerns linked to incarceration
Is trained in trauma, addiction, and relationship issues
Offers practical guidance, not just talk
Can coordinate with other services like parole officers, job training, or housing
At Redeemed Mental Health, our mental health professionals use evidence-based approaches like Internal Family Systems, trauma-informed care, and personalized treatment to help you process the past and move forward.

Why Mental Health Support Matters After Prison
Ex-prisoners often carry the weight of untreated mental health conditions. Years behind bars can leave you with anger, anxiety, numbness, or deep shame. Sometimes those feelings lead to isolation, unemployment, or a return to substance use.
The system rarely offers real mental health services on the inside. And once you’re out, you’re left unchanged — expected to figure it all out on your own. That’s where therapy can change everything.
Getting support can help you:
Learn coping skills and stay sober
Reconnect with your family members
Build trust in yourself again
Handle stress without blowing up or shutting down
Reduce recidivism and keep moving forward
Create a plan for your life that feels like yours
Why Redeemed Mental Health?
Located in Newport Beach, Redeemed is a different kind of mental health treatment. We’re clinician-owned and operated by Dr. Andrea Wagner, a psychologist with a background in forensic psychology, corrections, and trauma. Our team gets what you’re going through — and we offer honest, hands-on help for every step of reentry.
We work with people who are serious about making a change and just need the right support to get there.
We offer:
One-on-one and group therapy sessions
Help with substance abuse, anger, or trauma
Flexible payment options and help navigating health insurance
Tools for emotional growth and emotional healing
Therapy built for real life, not theory

Call (888) 276-4435 today so we can help.
You’ve already done the hard part. Therapy isn’t about weakness — it’s about making sure your past doesn’t control your future. Whether you’re fresh out or years into reentry, it’s never too late to start healing.
At Redeemed Mental Health, we’ll walk with you — not in front of you, not behind you. With compassion, clarity, and commitment, we’re here to help you find your place in this world again.
FAQs About Finding a Therapist
How can therapy support my mental health needs after incarceration?
Therapy can help you manage your mental health needs by addressing trauma, anxiety, substance use, and the emotional impact of incarceration. It gives you a structured place to process your experiences and build tools for life outside.
Is therapy right for a person like me who’s been in prison?
Yes. Every person deserves a second chance, and therapy isn’t about judgment — it’s about healing. At Redeemed Mental Health, we work with people who have lived through hard things and are ready to make changes.
How do I encourage a loved one to get therapy after release?
You can encourage them by listening without judgment and offering to help them find a therapist who understands their background. Let them know that support is out there, and that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Can therapy really bring hope after prison?
Yes. One of the biggest things therapy offers is hope — the chance to believe in something better. Our clients often tell us that for the first time, they feel seen, heard, and capable of building a new life.
Is there an example of someone who’s benefited from therapy after incarceration?
While we protect client privacy, we’ve seen many examples of people who came to us feeling broken and left feeling stable, sober, and hopeful. With the right support, healing and change are possible.
What if I’ve messed up again — am I still welcome?
Absolutely. If you’re committed to change, we’re committed to walking with you. Everyone deserves a chance to get back up, even if they’ve slipped along the way.
What if I just need a break from the stress of reentry life?
Therapy can give you that break — a space to breathe, reflect, and reset without judgment. It’s a chance to step away from the pressure and start focusing on what you need to move forward.