The Department provides evidence-based programs to address the behaviors that resulted in the IDOC resident's incarceration. The goal is to teach them how they can change their lives by changing their thinking.

Every resident receives an extensive assessment through the Receiving and Diagnostics Unit (RDU) at either Idaho State Correctional Institution for men or Pocatello Women's Correctional Center for women. These assessments provide critical information that helps define the best program and treatment options available based on the individual circumstances of the resident.

In June of 2023, IDOC opened an innovative housing unit at South Idaho Correctional Institution. East Dorm was designed from the ground up to help its residents develop good habits and learn how to make good decisions. There are no other units like it in Idaho’s correctional system and few others like it in the country.