Scranton police officer and Crisis Intervention Team member Nick Philbin was recently presented with the NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)/NEPA CIT Challenge Coin in recognition of his extraordinary service in response to mental health crisis calls. Scranton Counseling Center’s co-responder, Mandy LaCoe, nominated Philbin for the award because she said he is making a significant impact in our community as he de-escalates tense situations with empathy and understanding to ensure the safety and well-being for all parties involved. Pictured at the presentation, from left, are: Ray Hayes, NEPA CIT founding member; Marie Onukiavage, CIT co-coordinator and NAMI executive director; LaCoe; Philbin; John Chilleri, CIT coordinator; and Cherianne Marsico, CIT coordinator.
