Research has proven that a client's recovery success rate increases by well over 80%-95% when an elevated level of structure is implemented after treatment. Monitoring is standardized "built in" accountability. It helps intervene before a relapse occurs by identifying old behaviors and coping mechanisms that are harmful. By keeping in contact with an individual's outside support system, it is possible to recognize and help our clients before a chemical relapse occurs. Monitoring an individual at any stage of their recovery, especially in early recovery, improves the outcome and increases the success of sobriety. 

As science advances our collective knowledge of how effective recovery in addictive disease and mental/emotional health issues is structured, it is increasingly clear that while initial/formal treatment may be very important, genuine long-term success is predicated on aftercare and maintenance of a program of recovery after formal treatment concludes.  This phenomenon is analogous to our academic experience with lecture classes and labs.  In lectures, we learn and discuss subject matter, but it is in the lab that we put our knowledge of that subject matter to use.  Initial/ formal/primary treatment is the lecture; we need the subject matter knowledge if we are to succeed.  We put our knowledge to use in the lab that is our lives after treatment, in doing the daily things required to maintain recovery.

Recovery is about learning (or relearning) healthy (often new) ways of living.  When incorporating new ways of living, it is often helpful to incorporate accountability, lest we fall into old habits.  It is for this reason, that LJA offers its monitoring services.  Stated most simply, LJA Program's monitoring process is Good Recovery + Accountability. 

As with intervention and other LJA Program services, monitoring is most frequently associated with addictive disease recovery.  It is important to note, however, that LJA Program can offer monitoring services for issues not related to addictive disease.  Persons recovering from other cognitive and/or behavioral conditions (depression, anxiety, etc.) can also benefit from the added level of accountability afforded under a monitoring agreement.

LJA Program monitoring services (i.e. "contracts") are available to all lawyers, judges, and law students in Mississippi, regardless of whether or not LJA Program was involved in that person's initial entry into recovery.  The documents and processes LJA Program employs are consistent with other Lawyers Assistance Programs throughout the country and with other professionals' monitoring programs (doctors, nurses, etc.).

Monitoring works.  90+% of professionals who complete a 5 year monitoring contract maintain their recovery.  Such recovering individuals can go on to successful lives, including successful careers.  They can further serve as resources for others who need recovery, thereby giving back to their profession. 

If you'd like to confidentially discuss the possibility of monitoring for yourself or for someone you know, please contact the LJA Program.   

LJA Program Monitoring Services Are:

Confidential
Voluntary

Please contact our office or an LJA Program volunteer in your area.  For a list of LJA Program volunteers across the state click here. 

Dr. Jessica Cole, LPC-S, NCC
Lawyers and Judges Assistance Program Director
Office: 601-948-0989  
Director's Direct Line: 601-948-4475
Email: [email protected]

Carolyn Barrett, Office Administrator & Monitoring Coordinator
Lawyers and Judges Assistance Program
Telephone: 601-948-0989
Email: [email protected]