I am a clinical psychologist with a specialization in the psychosocial treatment of severe, persistent mental illness. My research interests include needs assessment and evaluation of inpatient and outpatient programs that serve people with psychotic disorders. In particular, I am interested in developing and evaluating behavioral interventions that will help people manage their persistent symptoms and collaborate effectively with care providers. Some of my recent collaborations with graduate and undergraduate students have focused on understanding the effects of coercion on motivation and engagement in substance abuse treatment, and on effective mental health treatment in prisons. I teach a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses related to ethical mental health practice.

Select Publications

MacKain, S. & Lecci, L. (in press). Perceived coercion in substance abuse treatment: The eye of the beholder? Journal of Substance Use.

MacKain, S.J. & Mueser, K.T. (2009). Training in illness self management for people with mental illness in the criminal justice system. American Journal of Psychiatric Rehabilitation, 12, 31-56.

MacKain, S.J. & Baucom, T. (2008). Medication management skills training for mentally ill inmates: What happens later? Journal of Behavior Analysis-Offender & Victim Treatment & Prevention.

Mueser, K.T. & MacKain, S.J. (2006). Illness Management & Recovery: Fact Sheet on Evidence Based Practices. National GAINS Center/SAMHSA. [pdf]

MacKain, S.J. & Messer, C.E. (2004). Ending the inmate shuffle: An intermediate care program for inmates with a chronic mental illness. Journal of Forensic Psychology Practice, 4, 87 – 100.