Mental Health Unit

The nationally recognized Mental Health Unit works with local authorities and the San Antonio Fire Department to help residents engage relevant mental health support and services. 

Mental Health Unit members assist patrol officers with calls. They also offer crisis intervention training for cadets, officers, and dispatchers. The unit operates out of the regional public safety collaborative offices at the Southwest Texas Fusion Center.

Mission

The San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) Mental Health Unit and the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) develop partnerships with mental health consumers, their family members, and other mental health agencies and organizations to better serve residents in crisis. Mental Health Officers respond to individuals in crisis as a result of a mental health disorder, assessing and assisting them in the most effective and compassionate manner possible. Mental Health Officers use their training to remain sensitive to residents’ needs, and display the highest level of professionalism.

History

The SAPD first began Crisis Intervention Team training in 2003, and created the SAPD Mental Health Unit in 2008. The program has been recognized for excellence nationally and internationally. In 2017, the SAPD Mental Health Unit was named the Baptist Health Foundation’s 2017 Spirit of Health Award Recipient.