The Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) is a short term inpatient unit for individuals in need of intensive treatment to resolve debilitating psychiatric symptoms. The unit provides a safe environment to assist clients with thoughts and behaviors that make them a danger towards themselves or others, or make it impossible for them to care for themselves appropriately in the community. Medication and crisis supportive-therapies are used to restore health and stability as soon as possible. The average length of stay is three days.

While on the CSU, clients are evaluated for any ongoing needs they may have, to assist them once they are discharged back to the community. Referrals are made during their stay so services will be available as soon as they are discharged. Education is a key element of the care provided on the CSU. Information about medication and healthy living strategies are presented in both individual and group formats to assist clients in better understanding their illness, it’s treatment and the process of recovery and reintegration into the community.

Clients are admitted into the CSU either on a voluntary or involuntary basis through the Bake Act. Regardless of their initial status, all clients are encouraged to engage actively in their own treatment and recovery plan. Family input is also actively sought to better understand the needs of the individual being served as well as develop an active support system to assist at the time of discharge.