Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) programs represent a vital shift in how law enforcement agencies respond to mental health emergencies. By combining specialized training, community collaboration, and compassionate communication, CIT programs have transformed policing practices and enhanced public safety during crisis situations. Understanding the components, benefits, and ongoing evolution of CIT programs can help communities and agencies maximize their impact.
What Is a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Program?
A Crisis Intervention Team program is a coordinated effort that trains law enforcement officers and first responders to effectively engage individuals experiencing mental health crises. The goal is to de-escalate potentially volatile encounters, avoid unnecessary arrests, and connect people to appropriate care and support services.
CIT programs are locally developed but built on a nationally recognized model that originated in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1988. This model has been widely adopted and adapted, including by Crisis Intervention Team International, to meet various community needs.
Key Components of CIT Programs
Specialized Crisis Intervention Team Training
At the heart of every CIT program is rigorous training—usually a minimum of 40 hours—that covers:
-
Identification and understanding of mental illnesses including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and more.
-
De-escalation techniques to peacefully manage crisis situations.
-
Legal considerations such as patient rights and involuntary commitment.
-
Awareness of co-occurring disorders like substance abuse.
-
Knowledge of community mental health resources and referral options.
The training includes classroom instruction, interactive role-plays, and panels with mental health consumers and family members to build empathy and real-world skills.
Community Partnerships
CIT programs emphasize strong partnerships between law enforcement, mental health providers, hospitals, social agencies, and advocacy groups. These collaborations ensure that officers can access immediate support and direct individuals to the most appropriate care settings.
Support Systems and Program Management
Many successful CIT programs include designated coordinators, oversight committees, and data collection methods to monitor effectiveness. Ongoing support for officers, including refresher courses and peer networks, is essential for sustaining program quality.
The Benefits of Crisis Intervention Team CIT Programs
CIT programs have demonstrated a range of positive outcomes, benefiting individuals, communities, and law enforcement alike:
-
Reduced Use of Force: CIT-trained officers use de-escalation and communication skills that minimize violent confrontations.
-
Lower Arrest and Incarceration Rates: More individuals in crisis are diverted from the criminal justice system to mental health care.
-
Increased Treatment Access: By enabling timely referrals, CIT programs help stabilize individuals and reduce repeat crises.
-
Enhanced Officer Safety and Morale: Officers feel better equipped and supported when handling complex crisis calls.
-
Improved Public Trust: Communities gain confidence in law enforcement’s ability to respond with care and professionalism.
Studies have shown, for example, that jurisdictions with active CIT programs experience fewer injuries during crisis calls and increased positive interactions between police and persons with mental illness.
Crisis Intervention Team International’s Role
Crisis Intervention Team International (CITI) plays a pivotal role in advancing CIT programs globally. CITI provides:
-
A standardized 40-hour core training curriculum adaptable for different cultures and legal frameworks.
-
Train-the-Trainer models to build local expertise.
-
Program development resources and evaluation tools.
-
Networking and best practice sharing through conferences and forums.
Their efforts help ensure CIT programs remain current, effective, and inclusive.
Implementing a CIT Program: Challenges and Strategies
While CIT programs offer undeniable benefits, implementation can face challenges such as:
-
Limited funding and resources for training and program coordination.
-
Resistance to change within law enforcement culture.
-
Gaps in mental health services availability.
-
Need for continuous engagement with community stakeholders.
Successful programs address these by securing leadership buy-in, cultivating partnerships, advocating for funding, and maintaining open communication across agencies.
Read More: Crisis Intervention Team Training Best Practices: Lessons from Leading Expert
Future Directions for CIT Programs
Trends shaping the future of Crisis Intervention Team Programs include:
-
Integration with mobile crisis units and telehealth services.
-
Enhanced focus on cultural competency and trauma-informed care.
-
Improved data collection for outcome measurement.
-
Expansion of peer support and family involvement in crisis responses.
These advancements will further strengthen the ability of CIT programs to meet evolving mental health and public safety needs.
For extensive resources on Crisis Intervention Team CIT programs, training, and implementation strategies, visit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Crisis Intervention Team Programs – NAMI
