Implementing a Recovery Capital Model Into Therapeutic Courts: Case Study and Lessons Learned

Plain-Language Summary

Recovery capital is a way of understanding the strengths and resources a person can draw on to support their recovery: things like safe housing, supportive relationships, and a sense of purpose. For people involved in the justice system, accessing these resources can be harder due to added barriers. This study looked at a pilot program using the REC-CAP, a tool designed to measure and grow recovery capital, within two drug treatment courts. The researchers wanted to see how helpful the REC-CAP would be for court staff and their ability to support participants.

Feedback from court staff was positive. The REC-CAP helped them better understand the needs and strengths of each person, and gave them ideas for next steps in case planning. Staff appreciated the tool’s practical approach and how it supported their efforts to engage clients in recovery-focused strategies. The study suggests that with the right training and tools, drug courts can integrate recovery capital into their work to better support individuals on their journey, and that system-wide adoption could make this even more effective in the future.