Behavioral health crisis situations can be serious but do not always require an evaluation at a hospital emergency department. Most emergencies can be resolved without a trip to the ED and do not require prior authorization. There are a number of specialized crisis services geared toward the needs of individuals with mental health, substance use, and intellectual and developmental disabilities that can be accessed through Alliance.
Alternatives to the Emergency Department
If you are experiencing a behavioral health issue, there are alternatives to seeking treatment in a hospital emergency department:
- Call your behavioral healthcare provider if you have one.
- Call our Behavioral Health Crisis Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 877-223-4617. Alliance staff will evaluate your needs and help you find the right service and care.
- Call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Callers have the option to speak with a Peer Support Specialist, someone living in recovery from mental illness and/or substance use disorder.
Behavioral Health Urgent Care
BHUC, much like physical health urgent care, is a community-based option to stabilize people in behavioral health crisis. You can get assessments, treatment, and referrals for follow-up services. BHUCs prevent unneeded trips to the emergency department, hospital stays, and arrests.
Crisis and Assessment Centers
Alliance Crisis and Assessment Centers provide licensed clinicians to meet with you and help assess your treatment needs, including when you are in crisis.
Mobile Crisis Services
Mobile crisis services provide a short-term crisis response, stabilization and intervention for people in behavioral health crisis. A mobile crisis team can come to you where you are, and its services are confidential (private), non-judgmental and respectful. There is also a mobile team for children and youth.
