Rethinking Reentry: Applying the Coach(Referee) Model for Change to People Experiencing Substance Use Disorder

Justice System Partners (JSP) proposes partnering with the Massachusetts Department of Corrections and Massachusetts Parole Board to transform the culture of substance use recovery through the implementation of the “Coach (referee) Model for Change” (CRMC), that includes new drug testing policies, new parole conditions, and new Substance Use Coaching Moments supporting individuals progress towards sobriety. This is a three phase project. Phase one involves preparing site partners to shift their organizations to a coaching model through the CRMC. JSP will provide assessment, training, and ongoing support for its site partners. They will also assist site partners in adopting a new, addiction medicine-aligned drug testing policy that focuses on voluntary participation, and coaching opportunities instead of sanctions for positive drug tests, and reinforcement for progress toward sobriety. Phase two will involve the implementation of the revised drug testing policy alongside the expansion of existing treatment options through investments in additional clinical staff and peer support workers, and enrollment in individualized, app-facilitated support for people in reentry. Phase three will be focused on quality assurance, which involves comprehensive assessment of the appropriateness, acceptability, feasibility, and adoptability of the CRMC. JSP will conduct an evaluation through its internal Quality Assurance Team.