The International Academy for Crisis Response Training (IACRT) – previously known as The Academy – National Institute for Crisis Response Training (NICRT), began in 2008 in the foothills of North Carolina, founded by Mike Futrell and Dr. Tina Brookes. Our goal is to provide an excellent standard of training in the full scope of the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation’s (ICISF) courses in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and advanced crisis response. In addition, our instructors create alternative curricula to meet the broader needs of many students who do not need ICISF certifications.
New Leadership
In April 2023, Chaplain Fran Graham became the new CEO. The Academy has gained widespread global recognition for its exceptional training and excellent instructors.
Fran advises both governmental and non-government agencies, to establish emotional and mental health intervention support systems in times of war, refugee crises, and following natural disasters. She is a world-renowned public speaker and educator, with an extensive background in Law Enforcement, International Disaster Relief, Fire and Police Chaplaincy, Peer Support, and Critical Incident Stress Management.
Fran provides a wealth of knowledge and expertise to support those in crisis and psychological trauma. Fran’s unyielding faith and passion have and will continue to guide others to acknowledge, manage, and process the serious and unforeseen impacts of crisis and trauma, and to become educated enough to pay forward what has been learned.
Why We Stand Out
- Top Tier Training: We offer the full scope of the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation’s (ICISF) accredited courses in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), and exclusive curricula crafted by our experts.
- Global Impact: Our reach has expanded from Western North Carolina to a global scale, training Peer Support Teams, Disaster Relief Teams, and Crisis Management teams at every level.
- Diverse Expertise: Students at The Academy come from diverse fields including Law Enforcement, Fire, EMS, Healthcare, Education, Non-Profits, Chaplaincy, Military, and Mental Health. They also contribute to disaster relief efforts with organizations such as the Red Cross, Billy Graham Rapid Response Teams, Team Rubicon, and HOPE-Animal Assisted Crisis Response Teams.
Our Vision
Our students are inspired to create critical incident support teams in their communities and to advance the field of crisis response. They are encouraged to ‘pass the torch,’ fostering a network of skilled CISM responders and Peer Support teams that drive global healing.
We will continue to provide an excellent standard of education by expanding our faculty, increasing the range of courses we offer, and extending The Academy’s global influence to provide greater training opportunities in many nations that don’t have access to this invaluable education!
Contact us to learn how you can make an impact in crisis response.