The Anne Arundel County Crisis Intervention Team (“CIT”) Program has been awarded Platinum Level Certification, the highest certification level through CIT International. Anne Arundel County CIT is the only regional program in the world to be awarded a Platinum Certification.
The CIT program is a key component of the Anne Arundel County’s Crisis Response System. A CIT Program is a community partnership consisting of law enforcement, behavioral healthcare professionals, and individuals and family members impacted by mental illness, substance use disorder, or intellectual and developmental disabilities, aimed at improving community response to behavioral health crises. The CIT International certification designates programs that have incorporated the best practices of CIT and are recognized as a leading program for other entities to emulate.
“The CIT model has been around for more than 35 years and has a proven track record of improving a community’s response to mental health crises,” said Bart Oates, Executive Director of CIT International. “It’s an honor to recognize Anne Arundel County, Maryland as a leader in crisis response throughout the country and world.”
“CIT programs work because they improve how we respond to crises, connect people with the services they need, and build stronger community partnerships through education and training,” said County Executive Steuart Pittman. “Here in Anne Arundel County, we’re leading the way in providing behavioral health support and options for those in distress, and I’m proud of the progress we’re making.”
The Anne Arundel CIT Program reflects a collaboration between the Anne Arundel County Police Department and the Anne Arundel County Mental Health Agency's Crisis Response System, as well as numerous other community partners such as hospitals, schools, the court system, and community treatment providers.
“Inspired by what is well known as the Memphis Model, our Department's CIT Unit has been fully integrated into the County’s Crisis Response System since 2014 with officers working hand-in-hand with clinicians,” said Anne Arundel County Chief of Police Amal E. Awad. “Whether connecting a child with the appropriate behavioral health intervention or eliminating barriers to substance abuse treatment for individuals, our dedicated cohort of compassionate men and women continue to help change and save lives.”
For more information on CIT International, visit https://www.citinternational.
