Santa Fe County launches innovative reentry programs for substance abuse recovery

In a recent special meeting of the Santa Fe County Board of County Commissioners, the focus was on the innovative approaches being implemented within the county's correctional facilities to address behavioral health and substance abuse issues among inmates. The meeting highlighted the success of the county's behavioral health programs, which have evolved significantly over the past few years.

As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that the county has made substantial strides in integrating behavioral health clinicians into the correctional system. With seven licensed clinicians on staff, the program emphasizes suicide prevention and crisis intervention, particularly for individuals entering the facility who may be experiencing overwhelming stress. The clinicians conduct thorough assessments to identify past behavioral health issues and provide immediate support, ensuring that inmates receive the care they need during critical moments.

One of the standout features of the program is the Matrix Model, an evidence-based approach tailored for a criminal justice setting. This program, which began in 2018, has expanded to include both male and female reentry services, responding directly to the needs expressed by inmates. Weekly interdisciplinary team meetings bring together correctional officers, medical staff, and behavioral health professionals to collaboratively address the needs of high-risk individuals, aiming for successful outcomes upon release.

The Matrix program has shown promising results, with a significant percentage of graduates not returning to jail. For instance, 61% of male graduates and 65% of female graduates have successfully avoided reoffending. This success is attributed to the comprehensive nature of the program, which includes cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practices, and even yoga, all designed to equip inmates with the skills necessary for recovery and reintegration into society.

Additionally, the county has introduced a reentry housing initiative, allowing graduates of the Matrix program to continue their recovery in a supportive environment. This program has housed 85 inmates since its inception, further demonstrating the county's commitment to providing a continuum of care that extends beyond incarceration.

The meeting also touched on the economic benefits of substance use disorder treatment within the jail system. A recent study highlighted that effective treatment not only reduces recidivism but also leads to lower healthcare costs and increased productivity among former inmates. The county's Project REDI initiative aims to support successful transitions for those impacted by the criminal justice system, offering job training and financial literacy resources to help individuals rebuild their lives.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners expressed optimism about the ongoing collaboration and progressive strategies being implemented in Santa Fe County. The focus on rehabilitation and support is not just about reducing recidivism; it’s about fostering a safer, stronger community for all residents. The innovative programs being developed within the correctional facilities are paving the way for a brighter future for those seeking to overcome the challenges of substance abuse and reintegrate into society.