Peer Supported Reentry Program for Incarcerated Individuals with Behavioral Health Disorders-Lecture Presentation

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Amy Cohen introduces the SMI Advisor webinar on Peer-Supported Reentry Programs for Incarcerated Individuals with Behavioral Health Disorders. The webinar features two faculty members, Patrick Hendry and Casey Moyer, who are experts in peer advocacy and behavioral health services. They discuss the challenges faced by individuals with behavioral health disorders when reentering society after incarceration and the benefits of peer-led reentry programs. These programs aim to break the cycle of reincarceration by providing support and resources to individuals as they transition back into the community. The speakers emphasize the importance of lived experience and peer support in building trust with incarcerated individuals. They explain how peers can help individuals navigate employment, self-manage their healthcare, set goals, improve communication skills, access housing and community resources, and work towards successful recovery. The speakers also highlight the role of trauma in the experiences of incarcerated individuals and the importance of trauma-informed care. They showcase the success of the REAL program, which involves collaboration between law enforcement and peer specialists to provide community-based services and diversion from higher levels of care. The speakers share various case studies of individuals who have benefitted from these programs and highlight the positive outcomes, including decreased calls for service, successful employment, and improved community engagement. The video concludes by emphasizing the importance of peer support in reentry programs and the need for continued advocacy and legislation to support individuals with behavioral health disorders in their recovery journey.

Keywords

SMI Advisor webinar

Peer-Supported Reentry Programs

Incarcerated Individuals

Behavioral Health Disorders

Peer Advocacy

Lived Experience

Trauma-Informed Care

REAL Program

Positive Outcomes