Justice Support Services

What are Justice Support Services?

Our Justice Support Services Program assists individuals who are incarcerated, on probation, or navigating the court system in developing personalized recovery plans. We help them connect with community resources, access behavioral health supports, and more. We offer programming on-site at the Ithaca City Wellness and Recovery Court, Tompkins County Treatment and Family Courts, the County Jail and by appointment at our offices.

MHATC Staff in this program provide non-clinical crisis support. They help individuals see the possibilities for their own lives and support them in making meaningful changes.

For More Information
Call: (607) 277-PEER
Email: info@mhaedu.org

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How Can Our Justice Services Help?

We provide non-judgmental crisis support, emotional support, and relapse prevention including help with:

  • Identifying and building upon your personal strengths to maintain recovery goals and effectively manage mental health challenges.

  • Fostering peer relationships and developing stronger natural support networks.

  • Enhancing your social skills, enabling you to live, work, and participate more fully in your community.

  • Navigating community services and resources, ensuring you access the support you need.

  • Educating stakeholders in the criminal justice system about mental health recovery.

  • Advocating on your behalf when you’re unable to do so yourself.

What is a Certified Peer Specialist?

All Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) in New York State need to meet specific requirements: be at least 18 years of age, have earned a high school diploma, complete a core curriculum of specialized peer training courses at the Academy of Peer Services and publicly (self-determined) acknowledge that they have or are currently using mental health services. Certification also requires completing 2,000 hours of supervised peer specialist work. Certification is administered and authorized through the New York Peer Specialist Certification Board (NYPSCB).  New York Certified Peer Specialist certification is funded through the New York State Office of Mental Health.