SUMMERSVILLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – First responders from across Nicholas County came together July 14–18 for a comprehensive Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training held at the Summersville Arena and Conference Center. This intensive, week-long program brought together law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, 911 dispatchers, behavioral health professionals, and advocates to enhance their ability to safely and effectively respond to individuals experiencing mental health and substance use crises.
CIT is a nationally recognized program that equips first responders with the tools to de-escalate crises and connect individuals with appropriate mental health services. According to the American Psychological Association, at least 20% of police calls involve substance use or mental health concerns, and 65% of jail inmates report mental health challenges.
Participants received specialized instruction in suicide prevention, veteran support, youth behavioral health, autism awareness, and substance use disorder response. A core component of the training included interactive role-playing scenarios that allowed participants to practice de-escalation skills in realistic, high-stress situations. Attendees also toured local mental health and addiction treatment facilities to better understand available resources.
The training was sponsored by the Nicholas County Sheriff’s Department, the Summersville Police Department, and the City of Summersville and coordinated by First Choice Services, a Charleston-based nonprofit organization. First Choice Services manages a statewide initiative to expand CIT training across West Virginia.
Graduates of the program are now eligible to pursue advanced CIT coursework and further enhance their crisis response capabilities.
For more information about CIT or upcoming training opportunities, visit wvcit.com.
