Tri-County Crisis Intervention Team
The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) model is a community-based approach that improves police responses to people experiencing mental health crises by fostering partnerships between law enforcement, mental health professionals, and other community stakeholders, and providing specialized training to officers.
The Tri-County Crisis Intervention Team currently offers training for law enforcement professionals (two 4-day academies per year, plus periodic advanced courses and a refresher course); behavioral health professionals (one 2-day class per year); and dispatch and communications professionals (one 1-day class approximately every two years). In addition, CIT-model training is under development for fire/EMT professionals.
An Advisory Committee of relevant stakeholders reviews CIT curriculum twice per year.
Key Components of the CIT Model:
Benefits of the CIT Model:
In summary, the CIT model is a valuable tool for improving police responses to mental health crises by fostering collaboration, providing specialized training, and prioritizing safety and diversion to mental health services. For questions about the Tri-County CIT program, contact co-coordinators Beth Buchanan or Brad Reed.
The Tri-County Crisis Intervention Team currently offers training for law enforcement professionals (two 4-day academies per year, plus periodic advanced courses and a refresher course); behavioral health professionals (one 2-day class per year); and dispatch and communications professionals (one 1-day class approximately every two years). In addition, CIT-model training is under development for fire/EMT professionals.
An Advisory Committee of relevant stakeholders reviews CIT curriculum twice per year.
Key Components of the CIT Model:
- Specialized Training:
Law enforcement officers receive specialized training to identify, de-escalate, and respond to individuals in mental health crises, with a focus on diverting them to mental health services rather than the criminal justice system.
- Focus on Safety and Collaboration:
CIT programs prioritize the safety of both officers and individuals in crisis, emphasizing de-escalation techniques and collaboration with mental health professionals.
- Improved Outcomes:
Research suggests that CIT programs are associated with improved officer attitudes and knowledge about mental illness, and better outcomes for individuals in crisis.
- Diversion from Criminal Justice:
CIT programs aim to divert individuals with mental health crises from the criminal justice system and connect them with appropriate mental health services and supports.
- Ongoing Elements:
The CIT model emphasizes ongoing elements such as necessary participation and leadership of the law enforcement, advocacy, and mental health communities.
- Core Elements:
The core elements of the CIT model include strong partnerships and community ownership, agreed upon policies and procedures, a common understanding of key roles and responsibilities, and training for law enforcement officers and public safety telecommunicators.
- Community Partnerships:
CIT programs are built on strong partnerships between law enforcement, mental health providers, advocacy groups, and individuals and families affected by mental illness.
Benefits of the CIT Model:
- Improved Officer Safety:
CIT training helps officers de-escalate situations and reduce the risk of using force.
- Better Outcomes for Individuals in Crisis:
CIT programs connect individuals with mental health services, which can lead to improved outcomes and reduce the likelihood of re-entry into the criminal justice system.
- Reduced Stigma:
CIT programs help to reduce stigma associated with mental illness and promote understanding and empathy among law enforcement officers.
- Enhanced Community Safety:
By addressing mental health crises effectively, CIT programs contribute to a safer and more resilient community.
In summary, the CIT model is a valuable tool for improving police responses to mental health crises by fostering collaboration, providing specialized training, and prioritizing safety and diversion to mental health services. For questions about the Tri-County CIT program, contact co-coordinators Beth Buchanan or Brad Reed.
