The Mental Health Crisis Response Institute brings all of the Barbara Schneider Foundation's training programs under one roof to make it easier to access trainings and to strengthen our mission and goals.  Mental illness is a common health problem.  All those that support individuals with a mental illness need training for their particular role as a provider or supporter to work within the legal framework of thier positions. 

Collaboration among the systems is key to preventing mental health crisis and supporting recovery.  Trainings are provided for police, detention and corrections; social service and mental health professionals; EMS; nursing and allied health staff; those who work with veterans; attorneys and judges.

The Barbara Schneider Foundation created the Mental Health Crisis Response Institute to continue to grow its training mission by partnering with expert trainers and local agencies to address the concrete needs of those who encounter a person in crisis.   Trainings are customized to meet the particular needs of students.

mental health crisis collaboration "circle of care"
"Circle of Care" by Charles Gadtke


Our Mission

To provide the best quality training available to first responders so they will be able to respond to a mental health crisis at any time and will work with the community to resolve each situation in a manner that shows concern for the person’s well being.

Our Goals

  • To provide the best customer service possible.

  • To make each client feel like they are our only client.

  • To promote a respectful and inclusive workplace.

  • To promote patient-centered training and care focused on recovery.

  • To provide crisis intervention training that focuses on lowering the risk of of future episodes.

  • To provide realistic simulation practical exercises of mental health crisis situations.

  • To incorporate the latest research, data, and best practices in the training.

  • To always have a person who lives with mental illness providing knowledge and direction on the training.

  • To develop community partnerships among law enforcement, mental health professionals, consumers and advocates.

  • To eliminate the need for the use of seclusion and restraints.

Our trainers offer the benefits of years of experience gained from previous or current positions as
  • Law enforcement officers.
  • Correction officers.
  • Mental health providers.
  • University faculty.
  • Community leaders. 

We are an equal opportunity employer and are members in good standing of CIT International.