Over 2,000 Oklahoma Law Enforcement Officers are currently trained in ODMHSAS Crisis Intervention

The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuses Services (ODMHSAS) is celebrating a critical milestone this May, during National Mental Health Awareness Month.

ODMHSAS has officially trained 1,000 more law enforcement officers in Crisis Intervention Training (CIT). CIT began in Oklahoma in 2002 with 45 police officers. Since its inception, ODMHSAS has trained over 2,700 people in CIT.

“Seeing a tremendous need, our agency expanded CIT training across Oklahoma,” said ODMHSAS Commissioner Carrie Slatton-Hodges. “We will continue to support our partners in law enforcement and communities across Oklahoma. This program will help deescalate crisis situations and advocate for at-risk populations.”

Program information: Crisis Intervention Team

“The Crisis Intervention Team program is a community effort partnering police officers and the community together for common goals of safety, understanding and service to individuals with mental illness and their families. Officers participate in a 5-day, 40-hour CIT training program,” said Commissioner Slatton-Hodges. “The professional provider community has recognized the need and efficacy of the CIT program and has partnered with law enforcement in providing the most effective training material possible.”

The training program consists of several classes taught by various instructors including a Psychiatrist, a Substance Abuse Specialist, Social Workers, Police Officers and representatives from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

"Being a CIT officer is more than just training. It’s a passion. Being able to see someone go from crisis to recovery is the most rewarding experience I have ever had.” - Sgt. Lori Osborn, Oklahoma City Police Department, 22 years of service.

Members of law enforcement can set up training by contacting ODMHSAS Law Enforcement Liaison Cory Sutton at cory.sutton@odmhsas.org.