The admission process into the Youth Behavioral Health Hospital is often fast-paced and can be overwhelming. When your child is in a mental health or substance abuse crisis, getting them to a safe, secure setting where deescalation can begin is an integral first step. We’re glad you’ve chosen North Central Health Care’s Crisis Center to help guide you through the process of making sure your child is safe and able to get the treatment they need. The following is an overview of the admissions process from the arrival to the Crisis Center all the way through post check-in at the Youth Behavioral Health Hospital.

All new admissions for the Youth Behavioral Health Hospital will be referred from the North Central Health Care Crisis Center located at 1150 Lake View Drive in Wausau. The Crisis Center is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and already provides crisis services to both youth and adults. Call 1.800.799.0122 if you are in need of Crisis Services.

The Admission Process

1. Crisis Center Arrival

When you and your child arrive at the Crisis Center located at 1150 Lake View Drive, we work quickly to assess your child’s crisis and situation. We then work with you and your child to attempt to stabilize and diffuse the crisis if possible, and begin developing a treatment plan and assessment of which program and facility will most benefit your child’s unique treatment needs.

2. Cross-Campus Transfer to Youth Hospital

If the Crisis Center determines the Youth Behavioral Health Hospital will best meet your child’s needs, transportation will be coordinated across the North Central Health Care campus and over to the Youth Hospital, which is on the North end of our Campus. Depending on your individual situation, your child may be transported by law enforcement, North Central Health Care staff or even yourself. We ask that you join your child during the admission process to the Youth Hospital.

3. Nursing Assessment

A nurse will meet with you and your child and guide you through the admission process. This process includes gathering information and completing additional assessments that focus on your child’s safety, health and well-being. Our staff will ask you to provide additional information and sign additional documents.

4. Welcome & Orientation

Our staff will say goodbye to you and help your child get comfortable in their private room. There, your child will settle in and, when comfortable, will begin participating in our treatment schedule. They will be seen by a Psychiatrist, Social Worker and Occupational Therapy Assistant over the next 24-48 hours while being supported by other staff.

An Overview of the Hospital

Upon arrival to the Hospital, parents and guardians will receive a helpful booklet that contains more specific information and answers to many questions you may have about your child's care. You can download or view a copy of our Hospital Overview below.