LIHUE — A group of 14 people are in a better position to deal with mental health emergencies after completing crisis intervention training.
LIHUE — A group of 14 people are in a better position to deal with mental health emergencies after completing crisis intervention training.
The individuals became certified members of the Crisis Intervention Team on June 7 after finishing a one-week class hosted by the Kaua‘i Police Department (KPD). The training delved into a holistic understanding of mental health crisis and fostered a unified response to behavioral emergencies on the island, the KPD said.
The class was lead by Dr. Dara Rampersad. She is a first responder and forensic psychologist with more than 27 years of experience.
The training marked the return of the program, which was previously held in 2018 and 2023, and served as the start of what police department leadership hopes will be a deeper level of collaboration between agencies for a community-driven approach to addressing crisis situations.
“I’m grateful for each one of you; taking the time to attend this training reflects your dedication and care for the safety and well-being of our community,” said KPD Assistant Chief Mark Ozaki in an address to the class. “Let’s continue to use this momentum to strengthen partnerships and turn every interaction into an opportunity to uplift and empower those we serve.”
The class was attended by personnel from a number of agencies, including the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Department of Law Enforcement Sheriff Division, as well as representatives of Kauai Community College and members of the community.
To learn more about a career in law enforcement visit https://www.kauai.gov/Government/Departments-Agencies/Police-Department/Recruitment.
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