The Hampton-Newport News CIT training consists of 40 hours of didactic instruction, interactive role-play, and discussion designed to prepare first responders to recognize and respond appropriately to those in crisis. CIT officers are specially trained to recognize and de-escalate crises involving people with acute episodes of mental illness. The goal of the CIT program is to reduce unnecessary restraint and incarceration of people with mental illness and to provide individuals with appropriate treatment in the community.

CIT in Hampton and Newport News is a well established and affective partnership between law enforcement, the community, hospitals, jails, mental health and the courts. This cooperation has resulted in a formalized comprehensive training to law enforcement on the signs and symptoms of mental illness. CIT in Virginia goes way beyond just 'book learning' as it also encompasses practical skills to better manage volatile encounters. Perhaps the most important aspect of CIT is awareness. It is this awareness of mental illness that breeds sensitivity and understanding. In the words of Sam Cochran, the former CIT Coordinator in Memphis, Tennessee, "It's more than just training."