- Houston Independent School District
- Crisis Response & Behavioral Supports
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WELCOME
Our Vision
The Crisis Response and Behavioral Supports (CRBS) Department is committed to providing strategic mental health support and targeted behavior interventions to ensure school safety for students.
About Us
In a school setting, a crisis response or behavior support can arise unexpectedly, ranging from natural disasters to incidents of violence or personal traumas experienced by students and staff. The CRBS Department plays a crucial role in promptly addressing and managing these situations to ensure the safety, well-being, and continuity of learning within the school community. We provide:
- Support with crisis, behavior intervention and mental health.
- Conduct threat assessments.
- Facilitate state-mandated training and choice PDs for campus & district staff.
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What We Do:
The Crisis Response & Behavioral Supports (CRBS) Department provides immediate support, guidance, and resources to students, faculty, and staff during times of crisis. We implement effective strategies to mitigate the impact of the crisis, restore a sense of normalcy, and facilitate the healing process for all those affected.
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Assessment and Intervention: Upon receiving reports of a crisis, the team conducts thorough screeners and assessments to determine the nature and severity of the situation. They then implement research-based strategies tailored to the needs of the individuals involved.
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Crisis Management Protocols: The department develops and maintains comprehensive crisis management protocols that outline step-by-step procedures for responding to various types of crises, ensuring consistency and efficiency in the response efforts.
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Support Services: In addition to immediate crisis intervention, the department provides referrals to external resources for individuals in need of continued assistance following a crisis.
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Preventive Measures: Recognizing the importance of prevention, the Crisis Department also engages in proactive measures such as mental health awareness programs, training sessions on crisis response techniques, and promoting a culture of open communication and support within the school community.
Collaboration and Coordination: The Crisis Department works collaboratively with other departments, including law enforcement agencies, and mental health professionals to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to crisis management and support.
Training and Professional Development: Team members undergo regular training and professional development sessions to enhance their skills in crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, and psychological first aid. This ensures that they remain well-equipped to address the diverse needs of the school community effectively.
Evaluation and Continuous Improvement: The department regularly evaluates its crisis response procedures, identifies areas for improvement, and implements necessary revisions to enhance the overall effectiveness of its services. Feedback from stakeholders, including students, parents, and staff, is actively sought and incorporated into the improvement process. -
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Services We Provide:
- Respond to acute crisis calls related to suicidal ideation, threat assessments, self-harm, psychological crisis, and behavior consultations.
- Facilitate immediate support, guidance, and resources for students, faculty, and staff during times of crisis.
- Implement research-based strategies to mitigate the impact of a crisis event and restore a sense of normalcy and healing.
- Provide indirect services such as consultation with teachers, staff, and parents on behalf of students considered at risk for emotional & behavioral concerns.
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Trainings We Offer:
- Crisis Protocol
- Crisis & Behavior Support Overview 101
- De- Escalation Strategies
- Trauma-Informed Practices
- Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (CPI)
Click here for more information
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We stand by the Sandy Hook Promise by encouraging and equipping campuses to have Save Promise Clubs to increase the Sandy Hook anonymous reporting system utilization.
The Say Something Anonymous Reporting System enables students to anonymously report an issue 24/7/365 through an app, hotline, or website when they see a classmate who is at risk of harming themselves or others.
Helpful Resources
- Bo's Place
- Children's Assessment Center
- Crisis Intervention of Houston
- DePelchin Children's Center (Counseling Services)
- Harris Center for Mental Health
- Mobile Crisis Outreach Team (Harris County)
- National Runway Safeline
- Sandy Hook Promise
- Suicide Prevention Lifeline (24/7) 1-800-2738255 *Text “talk” to 66746
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CONTACT US
HISD Crisis Line Phone Number: 713-923-8597
FOR ADMIN AND CAMPUS MENTAL HEALTH LIAISONS (8:00 AM- 4:30 PM)
Sean Ricks, DirectorCrisis Response & Behavioral Supports DepartmentEmail: SRICKS@houstonisd.org