FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The Flagstaff Police Department, in partnership with The Guidance Center, recently completed a weeklong Crisis Intervention and Response Training (CIT) aimed at improving compassionate, coordinated responses to behavioral-health emergencies across northern Arizona.
The 40-hour training brought together law enforcement officers, behavioral-health professionals, and community partners for an immersive program focused on empathy, de-escalation, and connecting individuals in crisis with the right resources. Sessions were hosted at both The Guidance Center and the Flagstaff Police Department, offering a balanced experience between community care settings and law-enforcement environments.
Throughout the week, participants engaged in presentations, group discussions, and hands-on scenario-based exercises designed to deepen understanding of mental health, trauma, crisis-response strategies, and the vital role of cross-agency collaboration. This year’s CIT class included representatives from a wide range of local and regional partners, including:
Flagstaff Medical Center, Northland Family Help Center, Terros Health, the Coconino County Attorney’s Office, The NARBHA Institute, Arizona Complete Health, Dementia Friends USA, Flagstaff Shelter Services, Redemption Counseling, Solari Crisis Response, Pine Forest, Benson Police Department, Cottonwood Police Department, NAU Police Department, Chandler Police Department, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Victim Witness Services, DirecTV, The Guidance Center, and the Flagstaff Police Department, among others.
Volunteers from The Guidance Center and community members also contributed their time to serve as scenario actors, adding realism and depth to the practical training sessions.
Flagstaff Police officials say the department remains committed to strengthening its partnerships with mental-health and community organizations, and plans to host additional CIT sessions in the future as part of ongoing efforts to enhance crisis response throughout northern Arizona.
