Hostage Crisis Negotiations - Level II

This advanced course represents the second offering in a three-part instructional sequence designed to build upon foundational knowledge acquired through completion of IPTM's Hostage Crisis Negotiations–Level I course, or an equivalent 40-hour program. Participants will explore sophisticated negotiation methodologies while emphasizing the critical importance of team organization, role assignment, and accountability structures.

A significant portion of the curriculum examines the psychological dimensions of subject behavior, with particular attention to de-escalation strategies applicable to individuals experiencing psychosis, schizoid affective conditions, paranoid personality traits, and avoidance or dependent personality patterns. The course also addresses interpersonal violence dynamics and examines approaches for managing domestic violence crisis situations.

Communication forms the foundation of successful intervention. Students will refine and expand the communication competencies introduced in the foundational course, with emphasis on cultivating rapport and compassionate understanding, utilizing de-escalation approaches, and employing attentive and responsive communication methods.

The training incorporates examination of high-risk scenarios including murder-suicide situations, suicide-by-cop incidents, locational suicidal activity, anticipated prolonged standoffs, extreme threat situations, and domestic violence emergencies. Participants will engage in sophisticated, scenario-based practice exercises encompassing complex negotiation challenges, collaborative team training, operational equipment utilization, and crisis event management.

Topic Areas Covered:

• Subject suicidality assessment including suicide-by-cop, murder-suicide, and locational suicidal activity
• Advanced negotiation strategies for individuals with mental illness, psychotic conditions, and paranoid characteristics
• Enhanced negotiation methodologies
• Stress management during active negotiations
• Intelligence management at an advanced level
• Specialized and challenging scenarios
• Preparation for extended crisis situations

Target Audience: This program is designed for sworn law enforcement and corrections officers, hostage crisis negotiation specialists, uniformed patrol personnel, military investigative staff, non-sworn crisis negotiation team members, mental health specialists, and clergy serving in support roles with law enforcement. The course is restricted to sworn and non-sworn law enforcement personnel.

Duration: 40 hours

Prerequisites: Successful completion of IPTM's Hostage Crisis Negotiations–Level I course or equivalent 40-hour training is required. Students without prior negotiation instruction are not recommended for enrollment; exceptions require documented approval from IPTM.

Course Schedule and Location: Classes are held at the Adam W. Herbert University Center, 12000 Alumni Drive, Jacksonville, FL 32224. Daily sessions run from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The course fee is $895.00. Instructor: James McDonald. Multiple session dates are available throughout 2026 and 2027.