Appomattox Recovery Initiative: Expanding Access to Evidence-Based Treatment and Supports - Horizon Behavioral Health proposes to launch the Appomattox Recovery Initiative to expand access to evidence-based, trauma-informed substance use disorder (SUD) and co-occurring disorder (COD) services for underserved adults and transitional-aged youth in rural Virginia. The project will provide screening, intensive outpatient treatment, peer recovery support, harm reduction services, and case management to 185 individuals over a three-year period. The program targets justice-involved adults and transitional-age youth, offering an alternative to incarceration and addressing critical service gaps in a Health Professional Shortage Area. Appomattox County, with a population of 16,700, has been designated a Mental Health and Primary Care Health Professional Shortage Area. Residents face a 16,040:1 primary care ratio and a 7 per 100,000 overdose death rate. Horizon, the sole service provider, will partner with the Commonwealth’s Attorney and Probation Office to identify eligible participants and provide same-day access to services through its Appomattox Wellness Center. Key evidence-based interventions will include the Community Reinforcement Approach (CRA), Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Illness Management and Recovery (IMR). Additional services include naloxone distribution, overdose prevention training, and tobacco cessation support. The project’s measurable objectives include: • Serving 55 individuals in Year 1, and 65 annually in Years 2 and 3 (185 total) • 100% screening for SUD/COD and infectious disease within 10 days of intake • 75% of clients demonstrating reduced substance use at 6 months • 90% of clients engaged in peer support, case management, and pro-social activities The project supports SAMHSA’s goals to expand access, improve engagement, and reduce criminal justice involvement in high-need communities.
