We are deeply saddened by the death of Najee Seabrooks, a wonderful man, father and Behavioral Health representative. As an organization, we are strongly committed to establishing meaningful collaboration between law enforcement officers and Behavioral Health professionals to prevent tragedies such as this one while increasing access to Behavioral Health services for those in crisis. In honor of Najee and so many others who were taken too soon we will continue to drive this effort to create change.
Care Plus NJ brought Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training to Bergen County in June 2016. Through our collaboration with the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office (BCPO) and Bergen County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO), over the past seven years we’ve been able to maintain this program and are proud to be completing our 22nd training this week. Bergen County CIT is the only program in the state of New Jersey to receive CIT International Certification. We have successfully trained hundreds of law enforcement officers and Behavioral Health professionals in this evidenced based training to provide them with the knowledge about mental illness, crisis resolution skills and access to community-based services.
Collaboration between Behavioral Health professionals and law enforcement is shown to reduce violence, reduce arrest rates, and increase likelihood of providing individuals in crisis with Behavioral Health services. We will continue to drive awareness and acceptance of this nationally recognized model in New Jersey so those experiencing Behavioral Health crises are met with the support and expertise they need to heal and to avoid future tragedies. Learn more about Bergen County CIT.
