Nine treatment court teams from North Dakota and Minnesota—representing approximately 85–90 treatment court professionals—recently came together to learn about updated treatment court best practices and explore ways to put those practices into action within their programs.
The training focused on strengthening treatment courts and better equipping teams to serve individuals with high-risk, high-needs circumstances, many of whom are impaired drivers. Stronger treatment court programs contribute to safer communities while also helping participants and their families build healthier, more stable lives.
A particularly meaningful part of the training was the presence of three treatment court graduates who now work as treatment court professionals, serving in roles such as peer support and treatment case aides. Their lived experience provides a unique and valuable perspective that can strengthen the therapeutic relationships treatment courts strive to build with participants.
Their journeys are a powerful reminder that treatment courts can do more than hold people accountable—they can help change lives.
By combining evidence-based practices with the perspective of those who have experienced the treatment court process firsthand, treatment court teams are better positioned to support lasting recovery, reduce recidivism, and move individuals and families toward healthier futures.
Judge Connie Cleveland addresses attendees during the general session.
Judge Andrew Eyre (second from the left) and the Grand Forks Treatment Court team partake in one of the many small group breakout sessions.
