VP, Peer & Crisis Program Development & Training
Behavioral health leader advancing peer workforce development, training, and recovery-oriented systems through innovation and lived-experience leadership.
Aaron Foster, MA, LAC, CRC, CRSS, serves as Vice President of Peer & Crisis Program Development and Training at RI International, where he leads behavioral health training initiatives, oversees curriculum and program development, and advances strategic growth through community collaboration and advocacy. A recognized leader in peer workforce development, he emphasizes program evaluation, compliance, and workforce outcomes. Foster has contributed to the field through higher education partnerships, national consulting, and authorship in Best Practices in Psychiatric Rehabilitation. He also developed the RI Career Center, expanding workforce pathways and employment supports for individuals with co-occurring behavioral health challenges.
Participated in a nationally recognized debate on June 30, 2024, alongside Dr. Rene Keet—moderated by Dr. Ursula Whiteside—advocating for the integration of peer support as a critical and appropriate component of high-intensity crisis care.
Developed and operationalized the RI Career Center and previously oversaw RI’s education and employment programs, including supported employment, career counseling, supported education, and certificate-based recovery training programs.
Served as a guest lecturer or speaker with Northern Arizona University, the University of Arizona, and Arizona State University, presenting on recovery-oriented services, peer support, trauma-informed care, co-occurring disorders, motivational interviewing, and supported employment.
VP, Peer & Crisis Program Development and Training
MA, LAC, CRC, CRSS
Peer Workforce Development and Lived Experience Leadership
Aaron speaks on the power of peers and lived experience, workforce development, and behavioral health innovation.
