Dozens Graduate From Crisis Intervention Training

September 1, 2018

The 39th Crisis Intervention training course graduated dozen of participants Friday, including participants from Escambia County Corrections, EMS, Fire Rescue and Sheriff’s Office, along with other local agencies.
The 40-hour training program is recognized and used throughout the country, emphasizing a partnership between law enforcement, the mental health and substance abuse treatment systems, mental health advocacy groups and consumers of mental health services and their families. CIT is designed for first responders who handle crisis calls involving people with mental illnesses, including those with co-occurring substance use disorders.

Throughout the week, participants had the opportunity to hear from instructors from the law enforcement community along with mental health professionals. Certified CIT Mental Health Coordinator Mary Carter from Lakeview Center Inc. was the facilitator for the training, which also included tours of the West Florida Community Care Center in Milton, Lakeview’s Acute Stabilization Unit and the Baptist Behavioral Unit. CIT participants learned crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques through role play, also getting an opportunity to hear powerful stories from those in the community who suffer from mental illness or who have family members with mental illnesses.

Northwest Florida CIT has held 39 training classes with 911 graduates since it began in 2006, spearheaded by Lakeview Center Inc. CIT’s mission is to provide a safe environment for persons with mental illness by partnering with agencies and systems within the community. These actions facilitate growth, strength and stability in the lives of persons with mental illness, carried out through education, communication and cooperation from those who serve the citizens of the community.

Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.

Comments

2 Responses to “Dozens Graduate From Crisis Intervention Training”

  1. Grandma on September 1st, 2018 3:03 pm

    Recognizing a mental or emotional disability is so very important for first responders.
    Hopefully quick evaluation of the situation can save some lives.

  2. Patsy Green on September 1st, 2018 10:53 am

    I’m pleased to see our local law enforcement officers participating in this. Preventing a crisis is of utmost importance.