Emergency Mental Health Services
24/7 Crisis Support for Adults & Children
The Emergency Services Center is available 24/7 to support anyone in an acute behavioral health crisis, with care provided regardless of ability to pay.
At DLC, we prioritize patient confidentiality and safety, adhering to all legal and ethical standards to protect patient information and maintain a secure environment for both voluntary and involuntary admissions.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call our 24-hour phone line at (239) DLC-HELP (239-352-4357) or dial 911.
How We Help
Inpatient Services
Crisis Stabilization & Baker Act Receiving
As Collier County’s Baker Act Receiving Facility, we accept referrals from parents, law enforcement, local hospitals, medical professionals, schools, or other concerned parties. Upon admission, we conduct an evaluation within 24 hours to establish an initial treatment plan.
Our dedicated team of professionals, including psychiatrists, nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and behavioral healthcare technicians, will collaborate to provide immediate care and support, helping individuals regain stability and begin the healing process.
Florida Mental Health Act (Baker Act)
The Florida Mental Health Act, commonly known as the Baker Act, is a state law that allows for the involuntary examination and treatment of individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. The Act ensures those who fit the criteria can receive the immediate care and assessment they need.
Criteria for Involuntary Examination Under the Baker Act:
An individual may be taken into custody and transported for involuntary examination under the Baker Act if any of the following conditions are met:
- Danger to Self: The individual expresses a threat to their own life, such as thoughts of suicide or self-harm.
- Danger to Others: The individual poses a threat of harm to others, such as violent or aggressive behavior due to a mental illness.
- Inability to Care for Self: The individual is unable to meet their own basic needs and make decisions regarding their care and may suffer from neglect due to mental illness.
Eligibility and Admission Criteria
Our Crisis Stabilization Unit is available 24/7 to provide immediate, compassionate care for individuals experiencing mental health crises. Our team is committed to delivering thorough evaluations and creating personalized treatment plans to ensure individuals receive the appropriate care during a crisis. Admissions to our unit can occur through:
Voluntary Admission
Individuals can seek assistance directly and request an evaluation and treatment at our facilities.
Involuntary Examination (Baker Act)
Initiated when an individual meets the legal criteria for immediate intervention due to safety concerns or mental health instability. This can include situations where an individual is a danger to themselves or others, or unable to care for themselves due to a mental health disorder. Law enforcement, medical professionals, or other concerned parties may initiate this process to ensure safety and provide urgent care.
Treatment Approach
Our Crisis Stabilization Unit offers a comprehensive, short-term treatment program designed to stabilize individuals and connect them with the appropriate ongoing care. Our treatment approach includes:
Psychiatric Assessments
Comprehensive evaluations conducted by a dedicated team of mental health professionals to gain a deep understanding of an individual’s mental health status, immediate challenges, and underlying factors. These assessments are crucial in forming a personalized treatment plan that addresses both short-term needs and long-term wellness goals.
Individual and Group Therapy
Therapeutic interventions aimed at addressing acute concerns, helping individuals express their feelings, and teaching coping strategies for managing mental health and behavioral challenges. Group therapy provides additional peer support and shared learning.
Medication Management
DLC takes a careful approach to prescribing and monitoring medications, ensuring their safe and effective use to stabilize symptoms, manage mental health conditions, and support ongoing recovery. Our goal is to help individuals regain stability and enhance their well-being while minimizing risks and promoting overall health.
Crisis Intervention
Immediate and compassionate support to de-escalate acute situations, ensure the safety of the individual, and begin the stabilization process. Our team uses evidence-based strategies to address urgent mental health crises in a controlled, secure environment.
Patient and Family Support
We recognize that mental health crises impact both individuals and their families. Involving loved ones in the recovery process is essential for a successful healing journey. Our team is dedicated to providing resources and guidance to help families navigate these challenges. Our support services include:
Family Education
Providing information about mental health conditions and available treatment options.
Counseling Services
Offering therapeutic support to help families navigate the challenges of a loved one’s crisis.
Visitation Policies
Encouraging family involvement through structured visits, while maintaining safety and respecting patient needs.
Outcomes and Transition of Care
Our goal is to stabilize individuals and guide them through a smooth transition into ongoing care. Upon discharge from the Crisis Stabilization Unit, patients may be referred to:
DLC Mobile Response Team (MRT)
The David Lawrence Center Mobile Response Team (MRT) is here to help. Through deescalation, appropriate crisis intervention, and connecting people to community resources, we aim to reduce the need for unnecessary psychiatric hospitalizations and criminal justice involvement.
Our dedicated team is available at 239.DLC.HELP
We have trained crisis clinicians available 24/7 to listen, guide, offer resources, and support your needs. We have ability to come to you, talk over the phone, or provide access to virtual help.
Call us if you are experiencing:
– Thoughts of self-harm
– Suicidal thoughts
– Depression
– Anxiety
– Panic Attacks
Take the First Step Toward Healing
If you or a loved one needs support, we’re here to help.
Call (239) 455-8500 to speak with a mental health professional today.