CRISIS INTERVENTION TRAINING (CIT) IN ORANGE COUNTY: ENHANCING MENTAL HEALTH RESPONSE

Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) in Orange County: Enhancing Mental Health Response

Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) in Orange County: Enhancing Mental Health Response

Blog Article

Mental health crises can occur at any time, impacting individuals, families, and communities. Effective intervention can make all the difference in ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected. In Orange County, Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) is a critical resource designed to equip professionals and first responders with the skills needed to de-escalate situations, provide immediate support, and connect individuals to appropriate mental health resources.



What is Crisis Intervention Training (CIT)?


Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) is a specialized program developed in collaboration with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Orange County to offer free mental health training. The program is tailored for both traditional and non-traditional first responders, including law enforcement officers, paramedics, educators, healthcare professionals, and social service providers. The goal is to enhance crisis management techniques while ensuring compassionate care for individuals experiencing psychological distress.

Core Components of CIT


CIT covers various essential areas, including:

  • Communication Skills – Learning to effectively engage with individuals in crisis using verbal and non-verbal communication.

  • De-escalation Techniques – Strategies to calm individuals, reduce tension, and prevent escalation.

  • Mental Health Medications – Understanding the role of psychiatric medications in treatment and crisis management.

  • Mental Health Treatments – An overview of therapeutic approaches and intervention models.

  • Legal Issues – Navigating laws related to mental health, patient rights, and emergency response.

  • Community Resources – Identifying and utilizing local mental health support services.

  • Recognizing Distress & Trauma – Understanding signs of trauma and its impact on behavior.

  • Recognizing Addiction – Identifying substance use disorders and their intersection with mental health crises.


Benefits of CIT for First Responders


CIT provides clear guidelines for identifying systemic problems, creating mutually beneficial solutions, and ensuring safety for all involved. Key benefits include:

  • De-escalation and Tactical Communication – Reducing the need for force and fostering trust within the community.

  • Youth & Mental Health First Aid – Equipping professionals to address youth mental health crises.

  • Multi-Cultural Mental Health Training – Understanding cultural differences in mental health and crisis response.

  • Healthy Coping Skills for Stress & Anger Management – Encouraging self-care and resilience among first responders.

  • Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) – Recognizing how early trauma affects mental health.

  • Trauma-Informed Care – Providing sensitive, informed approaches to individuals with past trauma.


CIT for Law Enforcement


Law enforcement officers frequently encounter individuals experiencing mental health crises. The CIT program for law enforcement offers specialized training to:

  • Assess risk factors for self-harm or violence.

  • Enhance de-escalation techniques to manage crises safely.

  • Increase knowledge of mental health conditions and available resources.

  • Strengthen partnerships with community organizations and family members.


This training helps officers respond effectively, ensuring both public safety and the well-being of individuals in crisis. POST (Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training) approval is pending for continuing professional education credits.

Real-World Impact of CIT


Many first responders have shared powerful testimonials about how CIT training has transformed their approach to crisis situations. A firefighter-paramedic from Southern California reflected on how CIT changed his response to a suicide call:

“In the past, I would have tried to convince the person why life was worth living, but it always felt like a debate. With CIT techniques, I simply reflected their emotions, saying things like ‘you seem very discouraged’ and ‘can we help you get past this?’ This approach engaged them where they were and sidestepped the resistance that often comes with these calls.”

Another paramedic shared how CIT helped him manage a situation with an agitated individual who feared his belongings were being stolen:

“In past encounters, he had to be restrained before transport. This time, I used a simple question: ‘Do you want me to come over to you, or would you like to come up to me to talk about how I can help?’ He seemed surprised, took a moment to think, and then approached willingly. The situation de-escalated naturally, and we were able to address the underlying medication compliance issue.”

Accessing CIT in Orange County


CIT is available at no cost throughout Orange County, with small group training sessions to ensure personalized instruction. Continuing Education credits are available for some trainings. If you or your organization interacts with individuals experiencing mental health crises, registering for CIT can be an invaluable step toward enhancing safety, empathy, and crisis response effectiveness.

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