Crisis Intervention Training (CIT)

Law enforcement officers are generally the first responders to persons in crisis or experiencing symptoms of mental illness.  The Crisis Intervention Team Training provides officers with education about mental illness, and provides skills and tools for effectively and safely interacting with someone who is experiencing a crisis.

Crisis Intervention Team Training is an in-depth law enforcement 40-hour state-certified specialized course.  These officers will use their skill and knowledge of mental illness and substance abuse to effectively handle the crisis situations.

The key components of this course cover the following:

  • Officers are exposed to the basic dynamics of common types of mental illness.  This allows the officer to make quick decisions utilizing options they have to resolve the crisis.
  • Officers are exposed to the experiences, viewpoints, and concerns of persons with mental illnesses (consumers) and their families.
  • Officers receive instruction and demonstrations in listening and responding skills.
  • The CIT model of intervention can be both a department-wide model, or an officer-specific career development designation.

Topics include, but are not limited to:

  • Mental illness recognition.
  • Substance abuse and dual diagnosis.
  • Child and adolescent disorders.
  • Psychotropic medications.
  • Geriatric issues.
  • Medical conditions that mimic mental illness.
  • Autism and persons with disabilities.
  • Law enforcement compliant surrender.
  • Excited delirium.
  • Risk assessment and crisis intervention skills.
  • Symptoms of PTSD and the Police Response;

This curriculum is approved by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board.  Each student receives a designation pin, and also a state-certified certificate for this training.