The West Virginia Crisis Intervention Team (WVCIT) enhances the readiness and capabilities of first responders.
This is achieved through specialized training in de-escalation techniques, mental health awareness, and crisis intervention strategies.
Building Community Trust Through Effective Crisis Response
WVCIT is committed to creating partnerships between first responders and behavioral health professionals. Our training empowers responders to de-escalate crises, divert individuals from the criminal justice system when possible, and connect them to the right support. This approach honors the unique needs of those in crisis, building trust, and fostering a compassionate response that reduces the strain on emergency services.
Our mission is to ensure the safety and well-being of both first responders and the communities they serve, transforming how crises are managed across the state.
At the heart of WVCIT is a commitment to doing the right thing—honoring the unique challenges individuals in crisis face by providing not just intervention, but meaningful help.
Through WVCIT, we aim to reduce the use of force, divert individuals from unnecessary involvement in the criminal justice system, and connect them to the appropriate treatment and care they deserve. CIT training is more than just crisis management; it’s about treating people with dignity, compassion, and respect, and creating lasting positive change in the lives of those affected by mental health crises.
WHY WVCIT MATTERS
Reduced Use of Force
CIT training empowers first responders to de-escalate crises, resulting in fewer injuries and more positive outcomes.
Fewer Repeat Calls
Effective crisis intervention reduces the need for repeated emergency responses, freeing first responders to attend to other emergencies.
Increased Safety
Improved handling of mental health crises ensures the safety of both individuals in crisis, first responders who serve them and community members.
Enhanced Community Trust
By fostering compassionate responses, CIT training builds stronger relationships between first responders and the communities they serve.
FAQs
-
Crisis Intervention Teams (CIT) are community-based programs that bring together first responders, mental health professionals, substance use disorder professionals, advocates, people with lived experience, and other partners to improve the community's response to people in crisis.
-
CIT programs emphasize training, collaboration, and access to resources to better address behavioral health and substance use crises. With more than 20% of first responder calls involving these crises, CIT training equips responders with skills to de-escalate situations and connect individuals to the right services, diverting them from the criminal justice system when appropriate. Strong partnerships ensure that community members receive the care and support they need.
-
CIT programs are expanding across the state, including in Wheeling, Huntington, Charleston, Beckley, Greenbrier, McDowell, Wyoming, and Berkeley Counties. Nationwide, there are over 3,000 CIT programs working to improve crisis response.
-
Our training programs are designed for a wide range of first responders, including police officers, EMTs, firefighters, 911 dispatchers, crisis responders, and other emergency personnel.
-
WVCIT offers specialized training in de-escalation techniques, mental health crisis management, and crisis intervention strategies. We also provide continuing education on crisis intervention best practices and support for first responder diversion programs.
-
WVCIT training provides first responders with skills to identify and manage behavioral health and addiction crises. It focuses on de-escalation techniques and connecting individuals to community resources. Training includes a 40-hour week of both classroom learning and hands-on exercises, such as role-playing scenarios to practice responding to high-pressure situations.
-
By participating in WVCIT programs, your community's first responders will be better equipped to handle crises safely and effectively. This leads to reduced use of force, fewer repeat emergency calls, increased safety, and enhanced trust between responders and the community. Additionally, community members in need will enjoy better access to appropriate care and treatment.
-
FCS supports West Virginia communities in the development of their own CIT programs by connecting them with training resources and WVCIT leaders across the state. We also host the annual WVCIT Summit, offering education and networking opportunities to strengthen CIT efforts statewide. As a provider of crisis helplines, we aim to empower communities with the resources and expertise they need for effective crisis response.
-
The WVCIT Summit is a gathering for those involved in or interested in WVCIT programs. It offers opportunities to learn from national speakers, share ideas, and explore best practices in crisis care. In 2024, the WVCIT Summit took place in Charleston from July 29–31 at the Embassy Suites.
-
The WVCIT Summit is open to anyone committed to improving crisis care, including law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, mental health professionals, substance use disorder specialists, community advocates, and people with lived experience. It’s an opportunity to build connections and develop better methods for supporting individuals in crisis.
-
Communities interested in starting a WVCIT program can attend the Summit or reach out directly to us at CIT@firstchoiceservices.org. We provide support in accessing training, connecting with resources, and building partnerships to establish effective WVCIT programs.
-
There are many ways to get involved with WVCIT, including participating in our training programs, partnering with us to support crisis intervention initiatives, and more.
-
To learn more about CIT, visit CITInternational.org or contact us for additional information.