LINCOLN, Neb. (KOLN) — Lincoln is set to debut its first Voluntary Crisis Response Center this winter, a new facility designed to offer mental health support in a more accessible and less traditional setting. Located near 14th and Adams, the 16-bed center represents a $2.5 million investment aimed at filling a critical gap in mental health care.
Jamie Scott, Chief Innovation Officer at Integrated Behavioral Health Services (IBHS), highlighted the center’s unique approach. “This facility will provide a higher level of voluntary care for individuals experiencing an extreme mental health crisis. Unlike traditional facilities, this center allows people to seek help without needing emergency protective custody from the police or a hospital stay.”
The Voluntary Crisis Response Center will feature a Crisis Stabilization program, which offers 24/7 psychiatric care, therapy, and assistance with transitioning back to regular living arrangements. The center will also provide short-term stays through its Mental Health Respite program, catering to those moving between housing environments or needing additional supervision.
Scott emphasized the importance of the center, noting, “We expect to be at full capacity continuously, with referrals coming from Lincoln Police, the Mental Health Crisis Center, and local hospitals. Our goal is to support individuals and contribute to a healthier, stronger community.”
The center’s opening is scheduled for December 1. IBHS hopes to offer services with minimal to no cost to individuals, relying on insurance coverage and funding from Region V. The Crisis Stabilization program will cater to individuals who:
Are 19 years or older and reside in the Region V Service Area (southeastern Nebraska)
Have symptoms matching a current DSM diagnosis requiring intensive, structured intervention
Exhibit significant mood or thought disturbances interfering with daily activities, needing immediate stabilization
Are at risk of harming themselves or others and require continuous monitoring support
Need 24-hour observation and supervision but not constant inpatient psychiatric care
Can benefit from short-term crisis intervention before returning to a less intensive level of care
The Voluntary Crisis Response Center aims to provide essential mental health resources and support for individuals in need, marking a significant advancement in local mental health care.
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