Community Bridges (CBI), a nonprofit behavioral‑health provider, presented program plans Nov. 24 to the Coconino County Board of Supervisors for a new adolescent continuum of care in Flagstaff.

CBI representatives said phase 1 will include a 24/7 crisis observation unit for children and adolescents (ages 5–17) operating on a "no wrong door" basis, and a residential unit of about 20–24 beds for ages 8–17. The longer‑term plan includes a subsequent 16‑bed inpatient treatment program. Company leadership named a medical director and emphasized coordination with managed‑care organizations.

Dane Binder (CBI) described the crisis unit as limited by Department of Licensing rules to a maximum stay of 23 hours, 59 minutes; assessments will include nurses, psychiatric clinicians and behavioral health clinicians, and families will receive peer support and treatment planning before a warm handoff to outpatient providers or other levels of care.

The residential program is intended for youth with primary diagnoses such as trauma disorders, mood disorders, substance use disorders or mild psychotic disorders. CBI outlined exclusionary criteria (moderate‑to‑high developmental disability, primary eating disorders, severe psychotic disorders or violent conduct that places others at risk), while noting a case‑by‑case approach to acceptance when clinically appropriate.

Supervisors asked about outreach to tribal and rural communities; CBI said it employs a tribal liaison and will work with county Health & Human Services, tribal entities, juvenile probation and local hospitals to coordinate referrals and culturally appropriate services. Michelle Axland, Health & Human Services Director, said the program will complement existing prevention programs and expand inpatient capacity for acute needs.

Next steps: CBI will continue community outreach and stakeholder coordination, and county staff will work with the provider on local referrals, tribal engagement and integration with existing behavioral‑health systems.