Justice Support Services

Respect the intrinisic worth of each human being

What are Justice Support Services?

Our Justice Support program assists individuals who are incarcerated, on probation or dealing with court systems with developing personal recovery plans, finding and utilizing community resources, accessing community based behavioral health supports and more.  We provide programming onsite at the Ithaca Recovery and Wellness Court, Tompkins County Probation Department and by appointment at the MHA offices. Peer Specialists who work for this program have specialized training with the criminal justice system. They serve not only as mentors but also as sources of hope and inspiration to people who are beginning their journeys to recovery.

For more information contact our Justice Services Coordinator and Peer Specialist, Larry Albro at lalbro@mhaedu.org or call (607) 273-9250. 

hands together in a circle

How Can Our Justice Support Services Help?

We offer non judgemental crisis support, emotional support and relapse prevention. Our Peer Specialist may help:

  • Identify and develop personal strengths that can assist you with maintaining recovery goals and managing mental illness.

  • Build peer relationships and create stronger natural support networks.

  • Enhance social skills allowing you to live, work and participate more fully in your communities.

  • Navigate community services and resources.

  • Educate stakeholders in the criminal justice system about mental health recovery

  • Advocate for recipients when they are unable to advocate for themselves.

What is a Certified Peer Specialist?

All Certified Peer Specialists in New York State need to meet specific requirements: be at least 18 years of age, have earned a high school diploma, complete 18 on-line courses/exams, 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. Mental Health Association Peer Specialists are trained through the NYS Academy of Peer Services and 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 (NYSOMH).

Learn more at Academy of Peer Services or New York Peer Specialist.