Josh Bell

Background

About Josh Bell

Hello friend, my name is Josh, and I am a Forensic Peer Mentor (FPM). As a returned citizen in long-term recovery, I bring firsthand experience from the criminal justice system and my journey through mental health and substance use challenges. During my darkest days of incarceration, despair nearly pushed me to the brink of suicide. Yet, my story was not over. These hardships became my lotus flower—a symbol of resilience through adversity. I am a Phoenix, having undergone profound rebirth and transformation. My struggles with substance abuse and mental illness were not due to a weakness of character. I have emerged from the fire with renewed dignity, respect, strength, willpower, and hope. Today, I am honored to serve as a beacon of hope, proving that others can also overcome their challenges. Through specialized training, I became a forensic peer mentor, dedicated to empowering individuals and improving system outcomes. I am part of a statewide network of forensic peer mentors, supported by our communities and guided by state and federal councils. With community support, I have risen above my past, living purposefully in my community of choice. I pay taxes, vote, and adhere to my ethical values. Now, I work alongside law enforcement on a jail in reach team, assisting individuals in crisis, much like I once was. Embracing change has allowed me to learn from those I work with, creating mutually supportive and challenging relationships that enhance the criminal justice system. This journey has given me a sense of purpose, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world