Law Enforcement & Mental Health Co-Response Graduate Certificate

Psychology student in a one-on-one meeting.

Fostering Collaboration: Law Enforcement & Mental Health

The Law Enforcement Co-Response Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Counseling is designed for professionals in both fields who want to enhance their understanding of community mental health and its intersection with the criminal justice system. As more police departments adopt collaborative models where officers partner with mental health clinicians during crisis calls, this program aims to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge. The curriculum covers a range of topics, including mental disorder and criminal behavior, mental health and the criminal justice system, rapid assessment for mental health counseling co-responders, and crisis intervention techniques. Students will also engage in a hands-on capstone project, allowing them to apply their learning in a practical setting.

Certificate Highlights

  • Understand both law enforcement and mental health approaches to crisis response
  • Apply knowledge through real-world collaboration
  • Master techniques for managing mental health emergencies
  • Learn the latest theories and policies in mental health and law enforcement

Admission Requirements

Students applying for the graduate certificate program must have a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or psychology, or a related field, with a minimum grade point average of B (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) in the last two years of undergraduate study from an accredited institution. Other graduate admissions tests such as the GRE or Miller will not be required for the certificate program. Preference will be given to applicants who have completed a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling or Criminal Justice. Students accepted into the certificate program who later wish to complete a master’s degree program may be required to meet admission criteria for that degree program. This may require another application to that program.

*Certificate program does not qualify a person for licensure.

Applicants for the graduate certificate must submit to the Office of Graduate and Continuing Education:

  • Submit a Graduate Certificate in Law Enforcement & Mental Health application at https://connect.westfield.ma.edu/apply.
  • Submit official transcripts indicating a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. 
  • Submit a narrative statement that describes (1) reason for interest in the field, (2) assessment of personal strengths and limitations, and (3) goals of study. 
  • Submit two letters of recommendation describing the individual's potential to complete the program.

What Can You Do with a Law Enforcement Co-Response Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Counseling?

A Law Enforcement Co-Response Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Counseling prepares you for a rapidly growing field with numerous professional opportunities. Here are some career paths you can pursue with this training:

  • Behavioral Health Consultant
  • Community Outreach Coordinator
  • Crisis Intervention Specialist
  • Emergency Response Coordinator
  • Mental Health Advocate
  • Training and Development Specialist:
Criminal Justice student at career fair speaking with an employer.

Collaborative Training and Networking Opportunities

We emphasize a collaborative approach, training students to work effectively with law enforcement to address the mental health challenges faced by individuals in crisis. Our program provides a strong understanding of psychological principles and insights into the criminal justice system, enabling graduates to foster safer, healthier communities. Through hands-on experience in crisis intervention, rapid assessment techniques, and ethical decision-making, students are prepared to navigate high-pressure situations and offer immediate support. We also host the largest Criminal Justice Career Fair in New England, connecting students with top employers and providing valuable networking opportunities to launch successful careers.

The Criminal Justice Career Fair in the Woodward Center at Westfield State University, Oct. 2023
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Contact Us

Graduate Admissions
Scanlon Hall, Second Floor

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Law Enforcement & Mental Health Co-Response Graduate Certificate