Crisis Intervention Team (Basic CIT)
***Information in this course and its description is subject to change as this information is always being updated***
The 40-hour program is designed to provide officers with specialized training on dealing with individuals in the community who have a mental illness or other behavioral disability. CIT officers are trained as resource specialists who can provide immediate response to calls involving a mental health crisis. The “team” concept refers to law enforcement involvement with stakeholder agencies, as well as interagency mutual assistance when appropriate.
The course will be conducted by a diverse group of law enforcement and behavioral health professionals including active CIT officers from three Illinois jurisdictions. Key topics include mental illness signs and symptoms, child and adolescent disorders, intervention strategies, geriatric issues, and the impact of substance abuse. Autism, intellectual disabilities, and community resources will also be addressed. The program will also provide officers with a unique opportunity to interact with individuals who have a mental illness and their family members (primary and secondary consumers).
An essential part of the CIT course is scenario-based skills training. Officers are challenged with realistic scenarios portrayed by professional actors from Chicago and St. Louis. Scenarios may include a suicide intervention, de-escalating a violent situation, or responding to a call involving an individual experiencing paranoia. All scenarios are facilitated, evaluated, and debriefed by experienced CIT officers.
This course is funded and certified by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. Board certificates and uniform pins will be awarded to students who meet all testing and attendance requirements. Enrollment is open to all agencies, regardless of size.
Length of service prerequisite
Patrol Officers– 2 years minimum from date of hire
Corrections Officer– No Prerequisite
Telecommunications– No Prerequisite
