Crisis Intervention Team/Training and Technical Assistance Center

Lisa Maccario, Clinical Director
(978) 720-7750
lmaaccario@beverlyma.gov

Ofc. Ted Lane, Law Enforcement Director
(978) 605-2585
slane@beverlyma.gov

Visit the Northeast Essex County CIT-TTAC Website

Mission Statement

Empowering emergency responders with comprehensive training and resources to effectively manage critical incidents, the North Eastern Essex County Critical Incident Team Training Center is dedicated to fostering resilience, collaboration, and proficiency in crisis response. Through innovative instruction, simulation, and practical exercises, we strive to cultivate a culture of preparedness, equipping our community’s frontline heroes with the skills and confidence to safeguard lives, minimize harm, and uphold public safety in the face of adversity.

What is CIT?

The Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) program is a collaborative initiative designed to improve community responses to mental health crises. It involves law enforcement, mental health and addiction professionals, individuals experiencing mental illness and/or addiction disorders, their families, and other community partners. The program’s primary aim is to enhance safety and provide effective crisis intervention.

Key Elements of Successful CIT Programs

  1. Safety is Paramount:
    • Crisis intervention skills are vital for ensuring the safety of officers, individuals in crisis, and the community.
    • Training focuses on de-escalation techniques and appropriate responses to mental health emergencies.
  2. Comprehensive Crisis Response:
    • Effective CIT programs go beyond just training officers. They work on improving the overall crisis response system.
    • This involves developing protocols and procedures that guarantee timely and appropriate responses to mental health crises.
    • Continuous evaluation and adaptation of these protocols help maintain effectiveness and responsiveness.
  3. Advocacy for Services:
    • CIT programs advocate for the necessary mental health and addiction services within the community.
    • Ensuring individuals in crisis have access to proper care and support reduces the likelihood of incarceration and promotes better outcomes.
    • Advocacy efforts may include lobbying for funding, resources, and policy changes to support mental health services.
  4. Strengthening Community Partnerships:
    • Building and maintaining strong relationships across various community sectors is essential.
    • Collaboration between law enforcement, healthcare providers, social services, and community organizations is crucial for a unified approach to handling mental health crises.
    • Regular meetings, joint training sessions, and shared resources help strengthen these partnerships.

Goals of CIT Programs

  • Enhanced Officer Training: Equip officers with the skills and knowledge to handle mental health crises effectively and compassionately.
  • Improved Crisis Outcomes: Ensure individuals in crisis receive appropriate care and support, reducing the need for arrest or use of force.
  • Increased Access to Services: Advocate for and facilitate access to mental health and addiction services for individuals in need.
  • Community Collaboration: Foster a collaborative environment where various stakeholders work together to address mental health crises.

By focusing on these aspects, CIT programs aim to create a safer, more effective, and compassionate community response to mental health crises, benefiting individuals in crisis, their families, law enforcement, and the community as a whole.