Ready for Reentry

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:

Are living in recovery from mental health and/or substance use disorders
Have personal lived experience within the criminal justice system
Maintain active certification as a Certified Peer Specialist
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:

Peer Support Principles: Core values and ethics of peer-led recovery
Forensic Focus: Addressing the unique challenges faced by individuals reentering from jail or prison, such as stigma, trauma, housing, employment, and legal obligations
Systems Navigation: Guidance through behavioral health, legal, parole/probation, and community services
Recovery Support: Promoting long-term wellness, self-determination, and hope
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:

State prisons and county jails
Day Reporting Centers
Mental Health Treatment Courts
Community-based behavioral health organizations
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:

Onsite peer support within correctional facilities or Day Reporting Centers
Community-based follow-up after release
Linkage to behavioral health, housing, employment, and entitlement services
Development of transportation and support plans
Emotional support and motivational engagement

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Ready4Reentry Forensic Peer Mentor Training, applicants must:

Be living in recovery from a mental health and/or substance use disorder
Have personal experience within the criminal justice system
Possess a high school diploma or GED
Hold one of the following Georgia DBHDD-recognized certifications:
- Certified Peer Specialist – Mental Health (CPS-MH)
- Certified Peer Specialist – Addictive Disease (CPS-AD)
- Certified Peer Specialist- Parent
- Certified Peer Specialist- Youth

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