New Jersey’ s Crisis Intervention Training: Does it Work? What Research Reveals
April 2026 | The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine 35
New Jersey’ s Crisis Intervention Training: Does it Work? What Research Reveals
Douglas S. Collier, MA( Ret. – DEA); Megan Forney, Ph. D.; Sarah Bilotta, Graduate Assistant, Monmouth University, Department of Criminal Justice
Abstract Law Enforcement Officers( LEO) serve as first responders to mental health challenges and unpredictable events in our communities. Research assists LEO leaders in guiding policy changes and overall program assessments and outcomes. Monmouth University’ s Department of Criminal Justice and School of Social Work are actively evaluating Crisis Intervention Team( CIT) Training in Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Findings from trainings completed between 2022-2025 reveal that targeted instruction and scenario-based practice strengthen an officer’ s confidence in their ability to respond to mental health calls. Law enforcement leaders always ask the question: Will this program be successful and produce effective change? This article highlights preliminary findings from surveys and focus groups that support the validity of CIT.
Across the United States, law enforcement agencies play a pivotal role in aiding individuals during mental health incidents. Patrol officers are often the first point of contact for community members experiencing the effects of psychiatric emergencies, substance use overdoses, developmental disabilities, emotional distress, and other incidents. These situations occur in time-sensitive and high-pressure environments, which require patience, understanding, clear communication, and de-escalation techniques. As communities encounter a higher rate of mental health crises, law enforcement must maintain the proper training and skills to respond effectively and efficiently for the overall safety of our communities.
Crisis Intervention Training( CIT) has emerged as an effective model to improve situational outcomes for officers and community members. Though CIT has been widely adopted throughout the country, program structure and implementation vary significantly depending on funding and personnel constraints. CIT has become an important component of professional development for law enforcement agencies. The following research provides evidence that CIT programs administered in New Jersey provides positive outcomes for law enforcement organizations in Monmouth and Ocean Counties.
New Jersey CIT The New Jersey CIT model is a 5-day, 40-hour program that integrates community resources, scenario-based exercises, and instruction from law enforcement and experienced mental health professionals. The participants are given pre-test and post-test surveys, and focus groups occur 6-12 months after training. Since the structure of the program is blended, it allows for officers to learn in different ways and not be confined to one learning modality. This commitment ensures that officers receive updated guidance, regardless of agency size or location, and there are shared standards among law enforcement. Establishing consistent expectations at the state level also shows officers that crisis response skills are a part of the job function and are required as a part of their duty to protect and serve.
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