CIT Program Overview
The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Program is a vital community initiative designed to enhance signs and symptoms of the most prevalent diagnoses seen in the community, de-escalation techniques, resources, and first responder wellness. This program equips first responders with effective communication techniques, de-escalation strategies, and the necessary skills to support individuals in behavioral health crises.
For more information on CIT, please call 951-358-4544 or email [email protected].
CIT Program Details
Our Mission
At the heart of the CIT program is our commitment to creating a standard of excellence in how law enforcement and first responders manage situations involving mental illness. We strive to foster a compassionate approach that prioritizes safety for all—responding personnel, individuals in crisis, and the broader community.
Join us in our mission to improve community safety and well-being through effective mental health intervention and support. Together, we can create a safer environment for everyone.
CIT Focus
Increasing Awareness
Educating first responders about mental illnesses and substance use disorders to enhance their understanding and empathy.
Strengthening Skills
Providing first responders with advanced de-escalation techniques tailored for mental health crises.
Building Relationships
Facilitating collaboration between law enforcement, mental health professionals, and community resources.
The Training Covers
Mental illness diagnoses
Major depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and personality disorder
Substance abuse disorder
Suicide prevention & suicide by cop
Treatment & psychotropic medicine
W&I Code, 5150 legal process
Verbal Judo & de-escalation skills
Mental Health Awareness Training
The Mental Health Awareness Training (MHAT) is offered by RUHS — Behavioral Health's Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) program. This free in-person training is designed specifically for paramedics, emergency medical technicians, firefighters, and those on the front lines in emergency rooms. Our program equips you with essential skills to effectively manage mental health and behavioral crises. You will learn about various mental health diagnoses, de-escalation techniques, and resources available in Riverside County. MHAT aims to improve interactions between first responders and individuals in crisis, enhancing safety and fostering a greater understanding of mental health issues. By participating, you'll play a crucial role in connecting individuals to needed support and reducing future encounters with the legal system.
CIT Training Offerings
Crisis Intervention Training
Correctional Crisis Intervention Training
Basic Correctional Academy
Probation Academy
Mental Health Awareness Training
Chaplain Academy
Tribal Public Safety Officer CIT
RSO Classified Orientation
Dispatch CIT
Correctional Mental Health Mandated Trainings
Adult Corrections Officer Supplemental Core Course
CIT Resources
Community & National
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Provides education, support, and advocacy to consumers and loved ones.
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Phone: (800) 273-8255
The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
RUHS — Behavioral Health Guide to Services
Inland SoCal Crisis & Suicide Helpline
24/7 crisis and suicide prevention hotline.
Phone: 951-686-HELP (4357)
Mobile Crisis Response Team
Field-based teams of clinical therapists, behavioral health specialists, peer support specialists, law enforcement & emergency department personnel.
Phone: 951-686-HELP (4357) for general community members
Riverside County Department of Veterans Services
Phone: 951-355-3060
RUHS Medical Center Emergency Treatment Services (ETS)
9990 County Farm Road, Ste. 4
Riverside, CA 92503
RUHS-BH LPS 5150 Certification & Oversight
Phone: (951) 358-4544
Email: [email protected]
Provides 5150 training coordination, 5150 authorization, oversight of involuntary holds written including feedback for quality improvement, guidance and technical assistance relating to 5150 involuntary hospitalizations.
First Responder Wellness
Counseling Team International
Provides 24/7/365 employee support to all first responders via counseling, training, crisis support, and critical debriefs.
Phone: (800) 222-9691
Crisis Text Line
Text "BLUE" to 741741
This will identify you as a first responder and let you communicate via text message with a trained crisis counselor from anywhere in the United States 24/7.
First Responder Wellness
Provides first responders and their families tools to reduce personal and family stress, encourage appropriate career decisions, and reduce the effects of traumatic incident stress.
Shift Wellness
Offers wellness and resilience retreats for first responders and public safety.
CORDICO Wellness App
Virgin Pulse App
Riverside Sheriff's Association offers a free, simple-to-use wellbeing program. Earn rewards up to $200 in Pulse Cash per year by getting active and making healthier choices.
Recommended Books
- "Emotional Survival for Law Enforcement" — Kevin Gilmartin, Ph.D.
emotionalsurvival.com (opens in new window) - "The Body Keeps the Score" — Bessel A. van der Kolk
besselvanderkolk.com (opens in new window)
For a more exhaustive list: 1strc.org/recommended-readings (opens in new window)
Riverside County Sheriff Wellness & Support Unit
Promoting on-call 24/7 support for mental, physical, and emotional wellness.
Email: [email protected]