COEUR d’ALENE — There was much to celebrate at the Kootenai County Courthouse on Thursday morning as Mental Health Court commemorated its 20th anniversary.  

Since 2004, Kootenai County’s MHC has helped its participants “transform their lives by changing their criminal behavior, and addressing their mental health, addiction and past trauma,” according to program coordinator Mary Wolfinger.

MHC is a post-conviction diversion program for people with serious mental illness and involves intensive court-monitored therapy and classes geared toward rehabilitation.   

Three participants graduated Thursday in front of staff and loved ones. The program takes a minimum of 18 months to complete, though many stay in the program for longer.

“It’s a tough road. But if you can make it through the beginning, you can make it through this program,” said program graduate Ricky Robles.  

“It really changed my life,” said program graduate Christine Cordea. “The byproduct of this program is feeling successful and worthwhile in life.” 

Dylan McBride, who is set to graduate from the program next month, gave a commencement speech that emphasized what can be learned from the program as a whole. 

“If you only look towards the end, you may miss valuable experiences along the way,” McBride said.   

Thursday also marked Judge John T. Mitchell’s last session as MHC's presiding judge. Mitchell was honored with a plaque for 20 years of leadership and service to the program.  

Jill Ainsworth from the National Alliance on Mental Illness also presented Mitchell with a certificate in recognition of all Mitchell has done to help those struggling with their mental health.  

Ainsworth commended Mitchell on his “remarkable ability to see potential in individuals who cannot see it in themselves.”  

“I think we’re put here on this earth to help people ease their suffering — and I’m going to miss that,” Mitchell said.  

Mayli Walsh will be taking over Mitchell’s duties at the MHC presiding judge this month.