Collin County is pleased to announce that Janessa "Nessa" Reid will serve as the new Program Coordinator for the Adult Mental Health Court (AMHC), a specialty court presided over by Judge Jennifer Edgeworth of the 219th District Court and Judge Lance Baxter of County Court at Law No. 3.
Reid has over eight years of experience in the mental health field and brings a wealth of knowledge, dedication, and passion to this critical role, furthering the county’s commitment to addressing mental health within the justice system. She will oversee the specialty court’s initiatives designed to assist justice-involved individuals with mental health challenges.
Reid graduated from the University of North Texas, where she developed a strong foundation in mental health advocacy. Her career has been defined by her unwavering commitment to supporting justice-involved individuals, reducing recidivism, and combating the stigma associated with mental illness. Her extensive experience includes roles as a case manager, TCOOMMI Continuity of Care Liaison, and Director of Community Integration Services at MHMR. In these capacities, Reid was pivotal in assisting individuals during mental health crises, providing them with the resources and support needed during their most challenging times.
In addition to her professional work, Reid is a dedicated volunteer with the Denton County LOSS (Local Outreach for Suicide Survivors) Team, offering support to those impacted by suicide. She has also been a vocal advocate on the Zero Suicide Task Force, contributing to the development of strategies aimed at preventing suicide and promoting mental wellness.
Reflecting on her new role, Reid said, "I am honored to be part of a program that not only supports individuals in their recovery journey but also provides them with a second chance to rebuild their lives. The success stories we've seen so far are a testament to the program's impact, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success."
Judge Jennifer Edgeworth, who has been an integral part of the AMHC, expressed her confidence in Reid’s leadership: "We are encouraged daily by the dedication of the individuals in the specialty court who are committed to making their lives better and contributing in a positive way to their community. With Ms. Reid’s experience and passion, I am confident that the program will continue to thrive under her guidance."
About the Adult Mental Health Court
Judge Jennifer Edgeworth and Judge Lance Baxter preside over the Adult Mental Health Court, which currently supports up to thirty active participants working diligently towards mental health recovery and community reintegration. Since its inception in 2023, the AMHC has seen fifteen participants successfully graduate, each demonstrating resilience, commitment, and growth.
These participants benefit from the court’s holistic approach, which includes personalized case management, comprehensive mental health services, and strong community connections. The program’s success is evident not only in the lives of its graduates but also in the positive ripple effects felt throughout the community.
Funded by a generous grant from the Office of Texas Governor Greg Abbott, the AMHC is available to Collin County residents aged seventeen and older diagnosed with a mental health condition, including bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), schizoaffective disorder, or schizophrenia.
The AMHC represents a beacon of hope for those facing the dual challenges of mental health issues and involvement in the justice system. Through the dedication of collaborative members, including District Attorney Greg Willis, Sheriff Jim Skinner, the Director of Community Supervision and Corrections (CSCD) Leticia Gibbs, the Collin County Commissioners, and the criminal defense bar, the program continues to provide essential support and resources to those in need.
