Forensic peer support services

Trained peer specialists who have experience living with mental illness or co-occurring mental illness and substance addictions and have histories of involvement in the criminal justice system provide guidance and support to people with similar experiences who are currently navigating complex systems. These peer specialists also directly facilitate connections with community-based care and services.

Local Examples

Lubbock County, TX Lubbock County Detention Center

• The jail staff partners with peer support specialists who work with people upon their release to help support their connection to community-based services and ensure a "warm hand-off."
• The peer support specialists are employed by a local service provider, StarCare, and work with people in the community in addition to those in the jail.

Marion County, OR Marion County Sheriff's Department

• In collaboration with the sheriff's department, Marion County Community Corrections, and the Oregon Department of Corrections, the community-based treatment provider delivers criminogenic risk-informed treatment and supports that includes peer mentors.
• The peer mentors are certified recovery mentors that provide case management services and direct peer supports for people who are incarcerated.
• These peer mentors maintain the relationship with the mentee upon release through mentoring groups and one-on-one support, which is delivered as part of an integrated treatment plan.

For more information on this example, see this resource:

• Collaborative Comprehensive Case Plans (Lead Case Planner: Behavioral Health Treatment Provider)