Summit Stone obtains waiver for crisis management in adolescent mental health care

Larimer County's Longview facility is set to enhance its adolescent services following a recent government meeting where key strategies for crisis management were discussed. The meeting highlighted the importance of training staff in de-escalation techniques and crisis prevention to ensure a safe environment for both clients and employees.

As part of the expansion, staff will receive comprehensive training that is critical for onboarding new team members. This training will also apply to the new adolescent unit, which aims to address the unique challenges faced by young individuals experiencing mental health crises. The facility will implement measures such as seclusion, emergency medication, and physical restraint only as a last resort, in accordance with medical staff directives.

A significant aspect of the discussion was the successful acquisition of a waiver that allows Longview to harmonize regulations between two state agencies overseeing care. This waiver is essential for the facility to utilize necessary safety tools while providing acute care to adolescents, who often arrive in states of crisis and dysregulation.

The meeting underscored the commitment of Summit Stone and the Department of Behavioral Services to maintain ongoing dialogue and feedback regarding the care process. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the facility can effectively manage the complexities of adolescent mental health and substance use treatment.

As Longview prepares to implement these changes, the community can expect improved support for young individuals in crisis, reinforcing the county's dedication to mental health services.