Probation Peer Support
Peer Support Wellness Program
MHV’s partnership with the Virginia Department of Corrections is designed to improve the lives of adults under probation supervision who have mental health challenges. By supporting the person’s mental health recovery the program also improves their success with the requirements of probation.
The Peer Support Wellness program is voluntary, free, and fully virtual. It includes a minimum of six weekly sessions, and can be extended if in the best interest of the participant. Our peer facilitators strive to meet the scheduling needs of each individual in order to work one-on-one to help them build their own wellness plan.
The individual defines their own strengths and challenges, coping skills, and what works best for them to live successfully in the community. Our peer leaders will help each person set attainable goals, and be there for support along the way.
Participants are referred by their Probation Officer and the District Mental Health Clinician. Each participant is given a pre and post assessment to measure growth, and monthly reports are provided to DOC. For more information, please email the Probation Peer Support Manager, Betsy Edmonds at bedmonds@mentalhealthvirginia.org.
“Encouragement from someone who’s been there; gave me a different perspective. Things he said made a lot of sense to me. “
“Made me self-reflect a lot more, I feel more self-aware of where I’m at with my wellness.“
“More convenient than having to go to in person group, and was more personal.“