Specially trained crisis counselors are available 24 hours a day to respond to crises rapidly and effectively, wherever they occur in Tennessee.

Throughout the state of Tennessee, the Youth Villages Specialized Crisis Services staff provides assessment and evaluation of children and youth, up to age 18, who are experiencing a psychiatric emergency.

Begun in June 2003, the program employs more than 80 staff working from 13 Youth Villages offices and satellite locations statewide. These locations are strategically located to provide faster response times for calls that require face-to-face crisis assessments.

When do I Call Specialized Crisis Services?
Call for psychiatric emergencies when a child or adolescent:

• Expresses serious suicidal or homicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Experiences severe depression
• Exhibits bizarre behavior, disorientation, confusion or hallucinations
• Acts in a destructive manner or is otherwise out of control

Always call when psychiatric hospitalization is being considered.