
Ready4Reentry Forensic Peer Mentor Training Program
A Georgia-Specific Approach to Recovery and Reentry
About the Program
The Ready4Reentry Forensic Peer Mentor Training Program is a specialized initiative developed by the Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network (GMHCN) to train individuals with lived experience of behavioral health challenges and involvement in the criminal justice system. This program equips participants to support others navigating reentry and recovery, helping reduce recidivism and foster long-term wellness across Georgia.
Launched in 2018 with the support of a Statewide Consumer Network Grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and in partnership with Georgia’s Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) and Department of Corrections (GDC), the program continues to grow and evolve through ongoing community input and cross-agency collaboration.
Who Are Forensic Peer Mentors?
Forensic Peer Mentors are individuals who:
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Are living in recovery from mental health and/or substance use disorders
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Have personal lived experience within the criminal justice system
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Maintain active certification as a Certified Peer Specialist
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Have completed the Ready4Reentry Forensic Peer Mentor Training Program authorized by DBHDD
These mentors serve as role models, advocates, and navigators, helping others reclaim agency in their recovery and reintegration journeys. Their work is grounded in trauma-informed, culturally competent, and person-centered peer support principles.
Core Competencies and Focus Areas:
The training provides participants with tools, knowledge, and strategies across several key areas:
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Peer Support Principles: Core values and ethics of peer-led recovery
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Forensic Focus: Addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals reentering from jail or prison, such as stigma, trauma, housing, employment, and legal obligations
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Systems Navigation: Guidance through behavioral health, legal, parole/probation, and community services
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Recovery Support: Promoting long-term wellness, self-determination, and hope
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Boundaries & Ethics: Ensuring professional, ethical engagement in complex environments
Employment Settings
Graduates of the program are equipped to work in a wide range of settings, including:
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State prisons and county jails
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Day Reporting Centers
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Mental Health Treatment Courts
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Community-based behavioral health organizations
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Reentry and supportive housing programs
Mentor Roles and Responsibilities
Forensic Peer Mentors begin their work with participants 3–18 months before their release or parole date, offering support in the following areas:
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Onsite peer support within correctional facilities or Day Reporting Centers
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Community-based follow-up after release
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Linkage to behavioral health, housing, employment, and entitlement services
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Development of transportation and support plans
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Emotional support and motivational engagement
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Ready4Reentry Forensic Peer Mentor Training, applicants must:
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Be living in recovery from a mental health and/or substance use disorder
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Have personal experience within the criminal justice system
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Possess a high school diploma or GED
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Hold one of the following Georgia DBHDD-recognized certifications:
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Certified Peer Specialist – Mental Health (CPS-MH)
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Certified Peer Specialist – Addictive Disease (CPS-AD)
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Certified Peer Specialist- Parent
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Certified Peer Specialist- Youth
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Program History and Impact
Since its first training in November 2019, the Ready4Reentry program has consistently supported Georgia’s mission to reduce recidivism and enhance the lives of returning citizens. Informed by community input gathered during statewide listening sessions and strengthened by ongoing collaboration with state agencies, the program continues to expand its reach and impact.
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, GMHCN remained committed to delivering this critical training, reinforcing Georgia’s leadership in recovery-focused criminal justice initiatives.
Get Involved
To learn more about the Forensic Peer Mentor Training Program or explore how to get involved, contact:
Robert Pugh
Forensic Peer Mentor Training Development Project Coordinator
fpmtp@gmhcn.org