20 Minutes to…Trained: Setting the Threshold on BIT Referrals (2026)

This 20-Minutes to… Trained session explores how institutions can establish an effective threshold for Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) referrals that encourages early reporting without overwhelming the team. NABITA experts examine common concerns that lead institutions to set referral thresholds too high, including fears of excessive caseloads, overreacting, mission creep, and limited staffing or resources. Participants will learn why BITs are most effective when they receive concerns across the spectrum of risk, allowing teams to identify patterns, connect information from across the institution, coordinate support, and intervene before concerns escalate. The session highlights practical strategies for triaging referrals, directing concerns to appropriate resources, providing ongoing support and monitoring, and escalating cases when advanced assessment or coordination is needed. This session is an excellent opportunity for BIT members, team chairs, student affairs professionals, and campus leaders seeking to strengthen referral practices, improve case management, and build a campus culture that encourages early reporting and proactive support.