Applying for a BJA Grant? Get Started with the Sequential Intercept Model

Effective criminal justice reform starts with a strong strategic plan. The Sequential Intercept Model (SIM) workshop, developed by Policy Research Associates, is an effective strategy to help communities assess available resources, determine gaps in services, and plan for community change. Through the SIM workshops, communities are able to identify local resources, service gaps, and priorities. At the end of the workshop, participants leave with an actionable plan to improve responses for adults with mental and substance use disorders in contact with the criminal justice system.

Throughout the past decade, the SIM workshop has proven itself as a strong tool; it is now being cited in federal legislation as an effective planning strategy. Within the 21st Century Cures Act, Congress identified the SIM as a means for promoting community-based strategies to reduce justice system involvement of people with mental and substance use disorders.

The recently released Justice and Mental Health Collaboration Program and the Second Chance Act Reentry Program for Adults with Co-Occurring Substance Use and Mental Disorders funding notifications from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) highlight the need for applicants to develop a strong strategic plan that outlines their planned efforts to improve responses for adults with mental and substance use disorders in contact with the criminal justice system.

Since 2002, Policy Research Associates has delivered hundreds of SIM workshops to cities, counties, and states to advance their criminal justice reform efforts. Our expert trainers can help your community develop an effective strategy by sharing examples of successful systems integration and highlighting local efforts.

Interested in including a Sequential Intercept Model workshop in your BJA proposals?
View our SIM workshop offerings and connect with our Training division to learn more.

About PRA

We are a national leader in behavioral health services research and its application to social change. Since 1987, we have assisted over 200 communities nationwide through a broad range of services to guide policy and practice.

We conduct meaningful, quality work to improve the lives of people who are disadvantaged through evaluation and research, technical assistance and training, and facilitation and event planning that make an impact in the field and promote a positive work environment.