Overcoming Barriers and Recognizing the Unique Value of Including Peer Support Specialists with Prior Justice Involvement in Recovery-Presentation and Q&A

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar discussed the unique value of peer support specialists with prior justice involvement. It was hosted by SMI Advisor, the Clinical Support System for Serious Mental Illness, which aims to help clinicians implement evidence-based care for those living with serious mental illness. The webinar offered one AMA PRA Category 1 credit for physicians, one continuing education credit for psychologists, and one continuing education credit for social workers. The presenters included Amy Brinkley, Tony Sanchez, Justin Volpe, and Dr. Deb Pinals. They discussed the value of peer support specialists with justice involvement, strategies to overcome stigma, and steps to initiate changes in laws, regulations, certification processes, and reimbursement policies. They emphasized the importance of advocacy and the need for felony-friendly policies to support reentry into the community. Amy Brinkley shared the history of substance use and mental health care services, highlighting the longstanding role of mutual aid societies and consumer involvement. She also discussed the current infrastructure for peer support services, including peer programs, training, certification initiatives, and reimbursement through Medicaid and private managed behavioral healthcare entities. Tony Sanchez shared his personal experience in overcoming the challenges faced by individuals with justice involvement and stressed the importance of providing employment opportunities for them. Justin Volpe highlighted the vital role of peer support specialists in the criminal justice system and the positive impact they have on reducing recidivism rates. Dr. Deb Pinals emphasized the need for mental health professionals to become familiar with working with peers and to recognize their value in supporting treatment outcomes. The webinar provided insights and resources for states and agencies looking to implement and support peer programs, especially within the criminal justice system. Overall, it aimed to promote the recognition and integration of peer support specialists with prior justice involvement in mental health care delivery.

Keywords

peer support specialists

prior justice involvement

evidence-based care

AMA PRA Category 1 credit

continuing education credit

advocacy

felony-friendly policies

criminal justice system

recidivism rates

mental health care delivery