The foundation of effective intervention is the application of actuarial risk and need assessments. In accordance with the Pennsylvania Adult Probation and Parole Evidence-Based Practices Strategic Plan, Adult Probation & Parole is working to utilize appropriate research-driven assessments to enhance public safety, reduce recidivism, and to effectively utilize resources and funding. By assessing for risk factors, Probation Officers determine the level of need for each offender and how to focus available resources. the Department two agency lead trainers and a co-trainer, certified through the University of Cincinnati Corrections Institute, to deliver Ohio Risk Assessment System trainings / certifications to staff. All Probation and Parole Officers are certified to administer the ORAS.

Adult Probation & Parole has two agency trainers for Motivational Interviewing (MI), all officers are certified in MI, and the Department also has several officers certified to facilitate SMART Recovery.