Date
2-12-2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Human Services
First Advisor
Carmella Bertino
Abstract
Creating change such as a new wellness program can be a difficult task, but it can be broken down into specific steps that make it slightly less daunting. Leaders need to be at the forefront of changes within their organization by leading by example and creating a culture that is inclusive of wellness. Utilizing policy creation, a wellness committee and clearly defining goals can help leaders successfully implement a new wellness program. Ethically, many reasons support the creation of a peer support program to help support employees in the criminal justice field. Ensuring ethical expectations and accountability are paramount in the health of a peer support program and help encourage its use and effectiveness. Peer support programs have traditionally focused on low-level therapy through the utilization of active listening. Training the peer support counselors in cognitive behavior therapy or CBT gives them additional tools when trying to help their peers.