Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit
Now open! Watch our virtual grand opening ceremony
About
The Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) is the first 24-hour facility in Merced County serving children and youth ages 5 to 17. The facility consists of four beds to provide voluntary short-term treatment for up to 24 hours. Clients are provided with services to safely transition back into the community or into a higher level of care. The purpose of the facility is to stabilize children and adolescents and prevent the need for hospitalization—reducing the burden of local and neighboring hospitals.
Services (offered in English, Spanish, and Hmong)
- 24/7 assessment and stabilization
- Therapeutic and mental health services
- Case management
- Medical evaluation and assistance
- Rehabilitation and recovery services
- Health and wellness activities
- Family support and education
- Referrals to community-based services for continued support
Addressing the Need
This is the first facility in Merced County dedicated to serving children and youth in crisis. It addresses the widespread shortage of services for continuum of care to meet youth crisis needs. Unaddressed mental health issues during childhood can extend into adulthood and impact quality of life. In order to grow, learn, and lead productive lives, mental health needs to be one of the top priorities in a child’s development.
Contact Info
Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit
300 E 15th Street
Merced, CA 95341
Phone: 209-386-1092
Fax: 209-720-0207
or California Relay Service: 711
Central Star CSU is administered by Central Star Behavioral Health, a Stars Behavioral Health Group agency. Central Star is a provider of mental health services under contract with Merced County.
