Chaplain CJ Caufield
Pastor · Deputy sheriff · Crisis intervention instructor
CJ Caufield is a veteran emergency services provider, ordained pastor, and law enforcement professional who has dedicated over thirty years to public safety, disaster relief, and first-responder mental health. Serving in dual capacities as a pastor and a deputy sheriff, Caufield brings a rare blend of operational field experience, pastoral care, and advanced crisis intervention training to individuals and families impacted by acute trauma and high-stress events.
Emergency Services, Public Safety, and Crisis Intervention
Throughout his three decades in emergency services, Caufield has deployed to numerous natural disasters, high-stress critical incidents, and line-of-duty events across the country. As a certified instructor for multiple national organizations, he specializes in training first responders, chaplains, and mental health professionals in critical incident stress management (CISM), peer support, and suicide prevention.
His clinical and technical expertise is backed by extensive coursework and credentials:
Advanced Certifications: Holds multiple specialized certifications in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), crisis debriefing, and emergency trauma response.
Certified Instructor: Trains public safety agencies, peer support teams, and chaplain networks in crisis intervention strategies.
National Recognition: Recipient of the prestigious Jefferson Cup award from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF), recognizing extraordinary service and leadership in the field of crisis intervention.
Academic Background and Core Philosophy
Caufield holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and is actively pursuing a Master’s degree to further deepen his clinical and ministerial foundation in trauma-informed care.
Whether serving in uniform on patrol, ministering to a congregation, or facilitating debriefings following a public tragedy, Caufield's life work is guided by a profound dedication to preserving the well-being of those who serve. He operates on the firm conviction that early, compassionate intervention after critical incidents can protect first responders from the long-term tolls of trauma—ultimately saving careers, families, and lives.