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PENNSYLVANIA MENTAL HEALTH CONSUMERS' ASSOCIATION

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fPS Training


Alongside the advocacy work we do, PMHCA has a selection of trainings that are outstanding. There are trainings for mental health professionals, peer professionals, and anyone who wants to learn more about mental health and recovery. We pride ourselves in the creation of a learning environment that is safe, comfortable, and effective. For most trainings offered, there is an in person, virtual, or hybrid ability. If you have questions about listed trainings or are interested in scheduling, please email pmhca@pmhca.org.

Peer Support Within the Criminal Justice System: Forensic Peer Support

Peer Support within the Criminal Justice System (FPS) offers a person-centered, strength-based support system offered to individuals with mental health and/or co-occurring challenges becomes involved in the justice system. This curriculum is structured based on the Sequential Intercept Model with initial contact with law enforcement all the way through re-entry into the community after release from incarceration.

What does a Forensic Peer do?

  • Support people during their involvement during the criminal justice system
  • Promote recovery principles including self-advocacy
  • Advocate for recipients of behavioral health care when they are unable to advocate for themselves
  • Educate all stakeholders in the Criminal Justice System about Mental Health Recovery
  • Inspire hope through shared life experiences 

Appropriate setting for Forensic Peer Support

  • Crisis Intervention Teams
  • State Hospitals
  • Emergency Rooms
  • Jails/Prisons
  • Courts/Specialty Courts
  • Halfway Houses
  • Mental Health Offices
  • Community Settings

Time: 3-day Training or 18-hours

Number of People: 25


On April 24th, 2024 thru April 26th, 2024, PMHCA and PaPSC will hold a Peer Support Within The Criminal Justice System Training in Chambersburg from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. This class has no cost associated with it; however, participants are responsible for their own food, lodging, and transportation. You must be a CPS/CRS/CFRS with personal lived experience in the criminal justice system to apply.

APPLY HERE!

On May 29th, 2024 thru May 31st, 2024, PMHCA will hold a Peer Support Within The Criminal Justice System Training in Philadelphia from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. This Forensic Peer Support is one of eight being offered for free through a grant for the state of Pennsylvania. Individuals working in crisis and jail settings will be prioritized first for the class.You must be a CPS/CRS/CFRS and have lived experience in the criminal justice system to apply.

APPLY HERE!

FULL CLASS! NO MORE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR THE PHILADELPHIA CLASS IN MAY! 

On June 12th, 2024 thru June 14th, 2024, PMHCA will hold a Peer Support Within The Criminal Justice System Training in New Castle from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. This Forensic Peer Support is one of eight being offered for free through a grant for the state of Pennsylvania. Individuals working in crisis and jail setting will be prioritized first for the class. You must be a CPS/CRS/CFRS and have lived experience in the criminal justice system to apply.

APPLY HERE!

On June 26th, 2024 thru June 28th, 2024, PMHCA will hold a Peer Support Within The Criminal Justice System Training in Clearfield from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. This Forensic Peer Support is one of eight being offered for free through a grant for the state of Pennsylvania. Individuals working in crisis and jail setting will be prioritized first for the class. You must be a CPS/CRS/CFRS and have lived experience in the criminal justice system to apply.

APPLY HERE!

On July 8th, 2024 thru July 10th, 2024, PMHCA will hold a Peer Support Within The Criminal Justice System Training in Lancaster from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. This Forensic Peer Support is one of eight being offered for free through a grant for the state of Pennsylvania. Individuals working in crisis and jail setting will be prioritized first for the class. You must be a CPS/CRS/CFRS and have lived experience in the criminal justice system to apply.

APPLY HERE!

On July 22nd, 2024 thru July 24th, 2024, PMHCA will hold a Peer Support Within The Criminal Justice System Training in Shamokin from 9 am to 4:30 pm. This Forensic Peer Support is one of eight being offered for free through a grant for the state of Pennsylvania. Individuals working in crisis and jail setting will be prioritized first for the class. You must be a CPS/CRS/CFRS and have lived experience in the criminal justice system to apply.

APPLY HERE

On October 15th, 2024 thru October 17th, 2024, PMHCA will hold a Peer Support Within The Criminal Justice System Training virtually from 9 am to 4:30 pm. This Forensic Peer Support is one of eight being offered for free through a grant for the state of Pennsylvania. Individuals working in crisis and jail setting will be prioritized first for the class. You must be a CPS/CRS/CFRS and have lived experience in the criminal justice system to apply.

APPLY HERE

FULL CLASS! NO MORE APPLICATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED FOR THE VIRTUAL CLASS IN OCTOBER! 

On December 11th, 2024 thru December 13th, 2024, PMHCA will hold a Peer Support Within The Criminal Justice System Training virtually from 9 am to 4:30 pm. This Forensic Peer Support is one of eight being offered for free through a grant for the state of Pennsylvania. Individuals working in crisis and jail setting will be prioritized first for the class. You must be a CPS/CRS/CFRS and have lived experience in the criminal justice system to apply.





PMHCA@pmhca.org

Office Phone: 717.221.1022



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