Integrating Psychologists into Police Departments to Improve Responses to Vulnerable Populations

The Cambridge Police Department (CPD) will present on the initial success of its Clinical Support Unit: a dedicated unit of nonsworn professionals to support the CPD’s response to vulnerable populations (i.e., those experiencing homeless, mental illness, or substance use disorders). The integration of clinical support into police departments can reduce the burden and strain on officers while also improving outcomes and safety for vulnerable populations. The challenge lies in how to effectively structure the roles and responsibilities of the nonsworn specialists within the police department. The speaker will present the established policies and procedures of the CPD Clinical Support Unit, as well as evaluation data on the impact that clinical support can have on recidivism and calls for service for chronic mental illness.