According to the National Association of Drug Court Professionals, “Treatment courts are the single most successful intervention in our nation’s history for leading people living with substance use and mental health disorders out of the justice system and into lives of recovery and stability. Instead of viewing addiction as a moral failing, they view it as a disease. Instead of punishment, they offer treatment. Instead of indifference, they show compassion.”

And then what?

Alaska Therapeutic Court Alumni (AKTCA) was formed in 2006 by graduates hoping to sustain their growth, community, and accomplishments achieved while in the therapeutic court. These graduates recognized that sobriety is an ongoing commitment to a lifestyle best supported within a community of accountability.

While graduation from the therapeutic court recognizes the completion of a rigorous 18 month treatment program, the alumni group offers an opportunity to commit to upholding past achievements within the program without the strict monitoring and structure previously provided. Graduation is only as successful as the maintenance of this progress and rehabilitation beyond the 18 months.

Since 2006, AKTCA continues to support graduates and participants through weekly peer support groups, monthly sober social activities, community outreach events, and advocacy efforts in Juneau, the state’s capital. The group welcomes current court participants and graduates of all therapeutic courts in Anchorage, Palmer, Juneau, Fairbanks, Sitka, and Kenai.

“The Therapeutic Court helped me save my life and the Alumni help me keep it.” -Board Member Michael Mooradian