Leading Addiction Treatment with
Accessible, Evidence-Based Care
REACH 2.0 offers mentorship and leadership development for medical students, residents, and fellows in Addiction Medicine and Addiction Psychiatry. Each year, 20 Scholars (medical students, residents, or fellows) and 20 Near Peers (physicians) gain hands-on training and guidance in addiction healthcare, shaping the next generation of leaders over the next five years.
What is the REACH 2.0 Program?
The REACH 2.0 program is a SAHMSA-funded, immersive training experience in evidenced-based addiction health care practices. Through collaboration, specialized training, and national networking, Scholars and Near Peers gain the skills and support needed to deliver responsive, equity-focused care. The REACH 2.0 program mission is:
To increase the knowledge of mental health and substance use disorder (SUD) providers in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and recovery support.
To increase the overall number of addiction specialists in the Addiction Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine workforce who are skilled, adaptable, and equipped to provide patient-centered care.
To increase the number of addiction specialists in the Addiction Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine workforce who are prepared to enhance the quality of mental health and SUD prevention and treatment.
Two Ways to Grow with the REACH 2.0 Program
The REACH 2.0 Program offers tailored pathways for Scholars and Near Peers, creating a dynamic, layered mentorship model. Scholars are paired with both an experienced mentor in Addiction Medicine or Addiction Psychiatry and a Near Peer Mentor—someone who has recently navigated similar training and can offer a relatable perspective.
The Scholar Experience
The Scholar Program is for medical students, residents, and fellows passionate about becoming leaders in the field of Addiction Medicine or Psychiatry. Over one year, Scholars receive guidance from both senior and Near Peer mentors, engage in hands-on training, and connect with a network of peers—building skills, confidence, and pathways to leadership
The Near Peer Experience
The Near Peer Program is for early-career physicians eager to guide the next generation while honing their own leadership and mentorship skills. Working closely with Scholars and senior mentors, Near Peers provide relatable guidance, foster collaboration, and help create an inclusive, supportive academic community.
What Our Participants Are Saying
Hear from Near Peers about how the program transforms mentorship into a multidimensional experience. Participants gain practical insights, build supportive networks, and develop their skills while helping others grow.
“Being part of the REACH 2.0 program has opened doors to new perspectives and opportunities I wouldn’t have accessed otherwise. Mentorship is multidimensional in that not only are you helping to build and uplift others, but you are constantly reflecting on how you present yourself in that dynamic relationship. With the new Near Peer model, I’ve gained practical advice, insights, and a supportive network that extends beyond our sessions focused on enhancing our skills as mentors. In essence, the REACH 2.0 program is a professional family unlike any other; for me, this core value is what I love the most. Truly, it has been a valuable and empowering experience.”
Dymon Morgan, Addiction Medicine Physician and Family Medicine, Cooper University Health Care
The REACH 2.0 program is a mentoring program funded through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) under award number H79SM090070. The views expressed in written materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does it mention of trade names, commercial practices, organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government.
