CIT Coordinator Training
This course provides training and information for those currently acting as the CIT coordinator/liaison for their agency as well as those seeking to establish a more formal CIT program in their agency. Topics include CIT department policy development, CIT models, data collection and relationship building/partnerships. Opportunities for information sharing, networking and inter-agency collaboration are provided. This training program receives generous support from the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS).
Crisis Intervention Teams (CIT) link police and community mental health partners to assist persons in behavioral crises in the community and to link them to services. The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Coordinator is an individual appointed by the department that assists with implementing and sustaining CIT within the community. The CIT Coordinator serves as a community liaison representing both law enforcement and other community partnerships to the citizens. Tasks and assignments may vary depending on specific needs of the department and the community.
Leadership, planning and problem-solving skills are essential attributes of a CIT Coordinator. In addition to representing internal department interests, the CIT Coordinator serves as the primary contact person for the CIT program and liaisons with community mental health partners as well as the community. The CIT Coordinator ensures goals of the CIT program are beyond those of training and that the broader goals of enhancing service and safety are met.
Example duties of a CIT Coordinator may include:
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Handling issues arising from the implementation of the CIT Program
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Maintaining on-going working relationships with community partners, including community mental health providers and advocacy groups.
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Working with community partners to promote and sustain the CIT program.
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Participating in quarterly learning collaboratives with mobile crisis service providers.
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Reviewing and developing CIT departmental policy and procedures.
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Assisting with the identification of officers well-suited to receive CIT training, assisting with coordination of on-going training opportunities.
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Providing leadership and guidance for CIT trained patrol officers.
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Working with call-takers and 911 dispatchers to ensure a CIT response, when appropriate.
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Monitoring state and local issues that may affect community crisis services, including legislative changes and case law.
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Developing and overseeing a systematic data collection process.
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Reviewing reports and conducting periodic evaluations of the CIT program.