2025 JCMH Summit

Hon. Jane Bland, Justice, The Supreme Court of Texas, JCMH Chair

Hon. Jesse F. McClure, III, Judge, Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, JCMH Chair

Kristi Taylor, J.D., Executive Director, JCMH

This session offers a powerful, dual-perspective look at how individuals with autism experience the criminal justice system—told through the lens of a Bell County prosecutor and her adult son with autism. Together, they will explore how common courtroom procedures, communication styles, and legal expectations can create unintended barriers for neurodivergent individuals. 

Presented by:

Anne Jackson, J.D., Assistant County Attorney, Bell County Attorney's Office, and Founding Member, Bell County Autism Intervention Team

Tres Jackson, Autism Lived Experience Expert & Autism Ambassador

• Presentation Slides
• ASK bag contents

Children with incarcerated parents often experience a profound and unacknowledged grief that can disrupt emotional development and fracture family and community systems across generations. This presentation brings together clinical and lived experience perspectives to illuminate the layered experiences of ambiguous loss in children and adolescents impacted by parental incarceration.

Presented by: 

Gregory Gomez, L.M.S.W., M.Ed., Clinical Implementation Specialist, Trauma and Grief Center at The Hackett Center for Mental Health, Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute

Monique Joseph, Program Director, Community Engagement, Honors College, The University of Houston

Julie Kaplow, Ph.D., A.B.P.P., Executive Vice President for Trauma and Grief Programs and Policy, Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, and Executive Director, Trauma and Grief Center at The Hackett Center for Mental Health 

• Presentation Slides
• Trauma and Grief Handout

Burnout among lawyers is reaching critical levels. This presentation, delivered by a licensed marriage and family therapist, explores burnout not only as an individual issue, but as a systemic issue that be overcome and prevented. Building on her presentation at the 2024 Summit, Jessica Chevrier will outline practical, scalable interventions that promote sustainable wellbeing, setting professional boundaries, and preventing burnout.

Presented by: 

Jessica Chevrier, M.S., Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, The Relationship Center of El Paso

• Presentation Slides Part 1
• Presentation Slides Part 2

*Eligible for 1 hour ethics credit

Panelists will share insights from Dallas County’s multi-year effort to build a coordinated, countywide 16.22 process, including practical strategies, lessons learned, and the value of cross-agency collaboration. Panelists will discuss the importance of magistrates and other system partners in effective use of CCP 16.22.

Presented by: 

Hon. Rodney Adams, Municipal Judge (Ret.)

Alyssa Aldrich, M.B.A., F.A.C.H.E., Executive Director, Adapt
Community Solutions, LLC

Hon. Pamela Liston, City Attorney, City of Decatur

Lee Pierson, J.D., Chief of the Mental Health Division, Dallas County District Attorney’s Office

• Presentation Slides

In this session, senior leaders from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission will each provide an overview of the mental health, IDD, and forensic services and supports offered by their respective divisions: Community Services, Health and Specialty Care Systems, and Behavioral Health Services.

Presented by: 

Anne McGonigle, M.A., Deputy Associate Commissioner of IDD Services and PASRR, Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Jennie Simpson, Ph.D., Associate Commissioner, Office of Forensic Services and Coordination, Texas Health and Human Services Commission

Reilly Webb, M.P.A, Associate Commissioner, Mental Health Programs, Texas Health and Human Services Commission

• Presentation Slides

This session explores how courts and pretrial services can leverage effective data collection and interagency information sharing to improve decision-making, enhance public safety, and support individuals with behavioral health needs. Domingo Corona will share practical models, lessons learned, and strategies for overcoming common barriers.

Presented by:

Domingo Corona, M.A., Director of Pretrial Services, Arizona Superior Court in Pima County

• Presentation Slides

Panelists from two different LMHAs will provide an overview of Jail-Based Competency Restoration (JBCR) programs and highlight how strong collaboration between mental health providers and the courts is helping to reduce state hospital waitlists, improve restoration timelines, and ensure timely access to care. Through real-world examples and data-driven outcomes, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how coordinated efforts between LMHAs and the judicial system are shaping more efficient and effective responses for individuals found incompetent to stand trial.

Presented by:

Krystin Holmes, Ph.D., L.P.C., L.M.F.T., N.C.C., Program Manager, Jail Based Competency Restoration Program and Competency Restoration Assessment Unit, The Harris Center

Jonathan Lemuel, Director of Forensic Services, Bluebonnet Trails Community Services

• Presentation Slides

This presentation will provide attorneys with evidence-based guidance on best practices for referring clients for competency to stand trial and insanity evaluations. An experienced forensic psychiatrist will share lessons learned from real case studies, with a focus on distinguishing between psychosis due to severe mental illness and substance-induced psychosis in the context of criminal responsibility determinations. Attendees will gain practical insights to improve referral decision-making, strengthen legal strategy, and enhance collaboration with forensic experts in competency evaluations.

Presented by: 

Marshall Smith, M.D., Board Certified Forensic Psychiatrist

• Presentation Slides

This presentation will examine the effectiveness of multidisciplinary co-responder teams, comprising law enforcement officers, paramedics, and mental health professionals, in addressing the needs of individuals who frequently utilize 911 and emergency detention services. With a focus on those concurrently enrolled in Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) programs, the session will present recent data demonstrating improved treatment engagement, reduced emergency service utilization, and notable cost savings—even among individuals experiencing homelessness.

Presented by:

Jason Miller, D.O., Crisis Response Medical Director, CMO of Athra Systems, Center for Health Care Services

• Presentation Slides

National police trainer Becky Haas will offer law enforcement professionals practical, evidence-based strategies rooted in trauma-informed policing. Drawing from her nationally recognized course, Haas will explain how understanding the root causes of trauma and the related brain science can transform responses to non-compliant or difficult behaviors—replacing frustration with empathy and improving outcomes on scene.

Presented by:

Becky Haas, C.E.O., Becky Haas Consulting

• Presentation Slides

Whether launching a new initiative or evaluating an existing one, effective program design and assessment are essential to achieving meaningful outcomes. This presentation will explore the most current evidence-based principles and practices for developing, managing, and reviewing programs within behavioral health, justice, or related systems. Topics will include key startup considerations, identifying what to measure and why, setting clear objectives and long-term goals, and optimizing communication and information flow.

Presented by:

Maj. Brent A. Carr, Jr., Instructor, Mission Command Training Program, United States Army, Fort Leavenworth, KS

• Presentation Slides

This presentation explores the transformative impact of positive youth diversion programs as effective alternatives to formal judicial processing. By redirecting individuals away from the traditional justice system, these programs provide crucial second chances that reduce recidivism and interrupt the cycle of system involvement. Attendees will gain insight into the core components of successful diversion initiatives and learn how these programs contribute to healthier trajectories for young people.

Presented by:

Hon. Angela Williams, Justice of the Peace, Williamson County Pct. 2

• Presentation Slides

This session explores how the unique neurological development of adolescents influences their competency in legal settings and informs effective restoration practices. Presenters Dr. Juliana Caro and Dr. Gimel Rogers will discuss current research, practical considerations, and strategies for addressing these developmental factors in juvenile justice contexts.

Presented by:

Juliana Caro, Psy.D., Clinical Director, F.I.R.E. Igniting Lives Psychology

Gimel Rogers, Psy.D., A.B.P.P., C.E.O. and Owner, F.I.R.E. Igniting Lives Psychology

• Presentation Slides

This session examines the complex challenges faced by youth in the child welfare system who lack stable placements and present with significant mental health needs, often intersecting with the juvenile justice and adult criminal justice systems. Luanne Southern, Matt Smith, and Sierra Fischer will highlight systemic factors, current initiatives, and collaborative approaches to improve outcomes for these youth.

Presented by:

Luanne Southern, M.S.W., Chief Strategist for Behavioral Health, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services

Matt Smith, M.A., L.P.CS., Director of Statewide Youth Services Continuum, Texas Juvenile Justice Department

Sierra Fischer, M.P.A., Director of Analytics for Change and Enhancement, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services

• Presentation Slides

This session highlights LEAP, a groundbreaking community-based program that provides legal education and competency restoration services to youth without the need for inpatient placement. Presenters will share the program’s design, implementation, and demonstrated impact on restoring competency while supporting the developmental and mental health needs of juveniles.

Presented by:

Uche Chibueze, Psy.D., A.B.P.P., Assistant Dir. of Health Services, Harris County Juvenile Probation Department

Florencia Iturri, Ph.D., Specialty Court Clinician, Harris Co. Juvenile Probation Department

Toni Walker, Ph.D., Staff Psychologist/LEAP Director, The Harris Center 

• Presentation Slides

The Texas Law Enforcement Peer Network (TLEPN) is a statewide initiative designed to support the mental health and well-being of peace officers through peer-to-peer connections. Created by officers for officers, the network provides a confidential, supportive space where law enforcement professionals can share experiences, access resources, and receive guidance from peers who understand the unique challenges of the profession. This session will highlight the development and implementation of TLEPN, explore its role in reducing stigma around mental health, and demonstrate how peer support can improve resilience and retention within the force. A facilitated discussion will follow.

Presented by:

Michael Mata, Regional Director of South Texas, Texas Law Enforcement Peer Network (TLEPN)

• Presentation Slides Part 1
• Presentation Slides Part 2
• Presentation Slides Part 3

Hon. Rebeca Huddle, Justice, The Supreme Court of Texas, JCMH Deputy Liaison

Hon. Gina Parker, Judge, Texas Court of Criminal Appeals, JCMH Deputy Liaison

The 89th Texas Legislature enacted significant reforms aimed at strengthening mental health infrastructure and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). This presentation will offer a comprehensive overview of the most impactful statutory changes, emphasizing systemic implications for those working at the intersection of mental health and justice.

Presented by:

Prof. Brian D. Shannon, J.D., Horn Distinguished Professor, Texas Tech University School of Law

Reilly Webb, M.P.A, Associate Commissioner, Mental Health Programs, Texas Health and Human Services Commission

• Presentation Slides

This presentation will blend a mother’s personal experience with her son’s serious mental illness (SMI) and professional insights gained from working with families nationwide to highlight the essential role of family care partners. Attendees will gain practical tools and strategies for engaging these unpaid yet invaluable allies in more effective, collaborative ways. By recognizing and integrating the voices of family caregivers, courts and mental health systems can improve outcomes and restore dignity to both individuals and their support networks.

Presented by:

Jerri Clark, Family Resource and Advocacy Manager, Treatment Advocacy Center

• Presentation Slides Part 1
• Presentation Slides Part 2

Peer support specialists play a vital role in transforming outcomes for youth and adults impacted by the criminal and civil legal systems. This presentation will examine how peer support—rooted in lived experience and evidence-based practices—can positively influence every stage of the justice continuum, from diversion and early intervention to re-entry and long-term recovery. Through real-world examples, the session will explore how peer support is effectively integrated in settings such as schools, jails, courts, hospitals, and community reentry programs.

Presented by:

Chelsea Biggerstaff, Program Director of Peer Services, LifeWorks Austin

David Johnson, Executive Director, The HEAL US Project

• Presentation Slides

Family partners bring lived experience and unique insights that can transform behavioral health and justice system responses. In this session, presenters will share how their work fosters trust, bridges service gaps, and promotes recovery for individuals and families navigating both systems.

Presented by:

Doug Smith, M.S.S.W., A.C.C., Managing Partner, D-Degree Coaching & Training

Sommer Alexander, R.S.P.S., Texas Harm Reduction Alliance

Melissa Porter, R.S.P.S., Houston Recovery Center

Angie Tyler, C.F.P., Integral Care

• Presentation Slides

This session will explore one of the most persistent and complex challenges in mental health and criminal justice systems: how to respond to individuals who are unhoused, uncooperative, and experiencing anosognosia, yet do not meet legal criteria for incompetency to stand trial or civil commitment. Galveston County’s Chief Public Defender will discuss practical considerations, legal limitations, and innovative strategies for engagement.

Presented by:

Thomas “Jay” Wooten, J.D., Chief Public Defender, Galveston County Misdemeanor Mental Health Public Defender’s Office

• Presentation Slides
• Presentation with videos

This session provides an overview of medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as an evidence-based approach to supporting individuals with substance use disorders. Dr. Juliana Caro and Dr. Gimel Rogers will discuss the role of MAT in treatment plans, address common misconceptions, and highlight best practices for integrating MAT within behavioral health and justice settings.

Presented by:

Juliana Caro, Psy.D., Clinical Director, F.I.R.E. Igniting Lives Psychology

Gimel Rogers, Psy.D., A.B.P.P, C.E.O. and Owner, F.I.R.E. Igniting Lives Psychology

This session examines the ethical and practical considerations in creating and implementing chemical dependency warrant processes as set out in the Health and Safety Code. Judge Oscar Kazen will share insights on balancing individual rights, public safety, and treatment needs while navigating the legal and procedural complexities of these cases.

Presented by:

Hon. Oscar Kazen, Judge, Probate Court No. 1, Bexar County

*Eligible for 1 hour ethics credit

Typically, Treatment Court Team members report directly to, and work for, the court. In Travis County, Mental Health Court case managers and peer support staff are integrated in the Managed Assigned Counsel Program, making them part of the defense team. This rethinking of roles fosters trust, strengthens therapeutic alliances, and improves treatment engagement and outcomes of the court participants. Presented by part of the Travis County Mental Health Court Team, this session will highlight how aligning some of the treatment court team’s supportive roles with the defense team enhances participant retention, treatment outcomes, and overall success of both the Mental Health Court and the court participants, while maintaining the transparency and information-sharing that are fundamental to the treatment court model.

Presented by:

Katy Jo Muncie, J.D., Director of Defense Services and Outreach, Capital Area Private Defender Service

Theo Scrivner, R.S.P.S, M.H.P.S., Mental Health Court Peer Support Specialist, Capital Area Private Defender Service

Diana Hernandez, Mental Health Court Case Manager, Capital Area Private Defender Service

Kathleen Tiernan, L.M.S.W., Mental Health Court Case Manager, Capital Area Private Defender Service

Treatment courts carry a heavy responsibility—supporting individuals through complex legal, behavioral health, and recovery challenges. In the Coastal Bend of Texas, Justice Forward, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is helping to meet that challenge by filling critical service gaps for both adult and juvenile participants. This presentation will explore how Justice Forward partners with treatment court teams to uphold best practices while directly supporting participants and graduates through funding for housing, transportation, education, vocational training, trauma-informed care, and criminal record relief.

Presented by:

Hon. Devon Anderson, President & C.E.O., Justice Forward

• Presentation Slides Part 1
• Presentation Slides Part 2

Successful treatment aftercare in Texas, particularly for individuals involved in the criminal justice system, requires more than program completion; it demands a coordinated, culturally responsive continuum of care. This presentation will explore best practices for supporting individuals after they graduate from specialty court programs, with a focus on community supervision, reentry, and sustained recovery.

Presented by:

Hon. Raquel “Rocky” Jones, Presiding Judge, 203rd Judicial District Court, Dallas County

• Presentation Slides

*Eligible for 1 hour ethics credit