Clay County Deputies, Community Paramedic Complete Crisis Intervention Training

HAYESVILLE, N.C. — “The opposite of addiction isn’t sobriety, it’s connection” was one of the themes members of the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Clay County Community Paramedic heard throughout a weeklong Crisis Intervention Training session.

The collaborative instruction was provided by Vaya Health and focused on helping individuals in crisis who are struggling with mental illness, substance abuse, and developmental disorders.

Throughout the program, participants heard directly from mental health professionals including counselors, REACH employees, social workers, people impacted by mental illness, and a variety of licensed therapists.

One of the greatest takeaways, officials said, was understanding that behavior is communication of unmet needs. The training is expected to significantly increase the capacity and awareness of law enforcement officers attempting to de-escalate situations and help people in crisis.

Mental health problems make up a tremendous portion of the issues facing law enforcement in 2026, the Sheriff’s Office noted. Getting training to better assist those in crisis is vital to reaching a successful outcome where everyone goes home safe.

Lieutenant Moore and Deputy Judge are the fourth members of the Sheriff’s Office to earn the certification. Brandon Bailey, the Clay County Community Paramedic, was also certified as a CIT-trained professional.

For more information, visit https://www.vayahealth.com.