Admissions

Prior to engaging in any form of treatment, individuals must first partake in a thorough psychosocial assessment. During these assessments, an individual’s history is reviewed to understand their symptoms and how they have impacted their ability to function on a daily basis. Additionally, the client’s physical and psychological background will be reviewed in order to obtain further pertinent information.

Once this assessment is complete, it is reviewed by clinical staff. The staff determine the most appropriate level of care in order for the individual’s needs to be met. 

Our psychiatric nurses are available to perform emergency assessments 24/7. To refer someone for hospitalization, call 707-648-2200 and ask to speak to a psychiatric emergency services nurse about potential admission.

If you or the person you’re concerned about is having suicidal thoughts, or if someone poses an immediate physical threat, call 911 immediately.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a psychiatric emergency, it’s critical to get expert help as soon as possible. Adolescents admitted to the inpatient program are referred by their doctor or therapist or are admitted following an assessment in the emergency room. Occasionally, patients are transferred to us from other facilities. 

When a family member or friend is behaving dangerously or inappropriately due to uncontrolled mental illness, ensuring the safety of your loved one and others is a top priority.

There are a few types of psychiatric holds that are only used under certain circumstances that can help your loved one get the help they needs, including:​​

• 72-hour hold (5150): A legal document that authorizes holding people against their will for evaluation and treatment of mental health conditions if they pose a danger to themselves or others or are gravely disabled.
• 14-day hold (5250): Patients may be held longer than 72 hours if the psychiatrist believes they need continued treatment and are unwilling to stay voluntarily. The 14-day hold can be discontinued by a psychiatrist before 14 days if the person agrees to stay voluntarily or is no longer in an acute crisis.
• Certification review hearing: A hearing that’s conducted by a court-appointed hearing officer to determine whether someone needs to continue hospital treatment or can be released from the hold and discharged. Patients are represented by a patients’ right advocate.
• Temporary conservatorship: When someone needs long-term treatment, a psychiatrist can request a temporary conservatorship for 30 days for being gravely disabled. If the request is approved, the county appoints a conservator who’ll be responsible for the person’s living arrangements, financial and legal matters, and medical and mental health treatment.