A well-designed crisis care system has the potential to transform how individuals in need access timely and appropriate support. Central to this vision are crisis centers, which provide immediate interventions for those experiencing behavioral health emergencies.
These centers encompass a diverse range of services, from peer-led respite programs to medically intensive treatment. Ideally, a comprehensive crisis center would offer a "no wrong door" approach, ensuring that all individuals receive the level of care required, without barriers or delays.
The strength of the comprehensive crisis center lies in its ability to adapt to a person's evolving condition and requires the inclusion of four major functions: 1) a receiving function; 2) a 23-hour observation unit; 3) a crisis stabilization unit; 4) a walk-in urgent care. Individuals can transition between programs within the center, experiencing a single, uninterrupted episode of care. These centers create a secure, therapeutic environment by integrating hospital-level safety measures with person-centered recovery principles.
Here is a simplified look across three of the four required components:
SOURCE: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0193953X24000443