Why do you want to be a PAARI Pro?
“I am passionate about improving mental health and substance use remission systems, and becoming a PAARI Pro aligns perfectly with my commitment to creating meaningful, community-driven solutions. As a co-responder (mental health first responder) and clinical psychologist, I have seen firsthand the impact of collaboration between law enforcement, public health, and community resources. Through our Co-Responder Unit (CRU), we actively identify gaps in systems and create programs when needed to address those gaps. Becoming a PAARI Pro will further enhance my ability to contribute to these efforts, offering additional support and resources to strengthen deflection initiatives and improve outcomes for individuals struggling with substance use.”
About:
Dr. Shannon Cubria Farris, widely known as "Dr. Shannon," is a pioneering force in mental health advocacy, celebrated for his innovative contributions and unwavering dedication. A Missouri native, Dr. Shannon's career as a mental health first responder, educator, and crisis intervention specialist has revolutionized mental health care and education at local, state, and national levels. Amid the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, his virtual Signs of Suicide (SOS) program became a national benchmark, establishing him as a leader in virtual suicide prevention and crisis response.
Currently, Dr. Shannon serves as a co-responder with the Cape Girardeau Police Department, one of the most rural crisis response programs in the United States. He bridges law enforcement and mental health support, effectively diverting individuals in crisis away from jails and emergency rooms. His innovative programs—such as the TransFamily Support Group, The Salvation Army’s Police Substation and Resource Center, and the Southeast Missouri Peer Support Team—fill critical service gaps and provide essential resources across multiple counties.
Before the establishment of the Crisis Response Unit (CRU), Cape Girardeau police officers spent an average of 60 minutes responding to mental health-related calls. Since the CRU's implementation, response times have decreased to an average of 10-15 minutes, and in many cases, officer presence is no longer required. Over the past 21 months, the CRU has handled more than 1,000 crisis calls, significantly improving crisis intervention outcomes and allowing officers to focus on other essential duties. By diverting individuals in crisis away from jails and emergency rooms, the CRU has saved more than $4 million in direct costs. The Bureau of Justice Assistance has recognized Cape Girardeau’s CRU as one of the nation’s most successful crisis intervention programs, setting a national benchmark for other law enforcement agencies.
Dr. Shannon’s work has garnered the attention of state representatives, leading to interest in expanding the established responder programs throughout Missouri. His impact is further amplified through his media presence. His weekly national TV show, "Sundays with Dr. Shannon," and his podcast, "First Response with Dr. Shannon," foster open discussions on mental health and offer practical solutions to everyday challenges, advancing his mission to create a more compassionate and informed world.
Dr. Shannon embodies the transformative power of passion, innovation, and service in mental health advocacy. As a catalyst of change, he continues to shape the landscape of mental health care, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and support for communities worldwide.
