Crisis Services
AMHC offers 24/7 crisis services across Aroostook, Hancock, and Washington counties, available at home, in the community, and through telehealth. Additionally, during business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., crisis services are accessible at any AMHC outpatient office in Fort Kent, Madawaska, Caribou, Presque Isle, Houlton, Calais, Machias, and Ellsworth. These services encompass mental health and substance use assessments, safety planning, and necessary referrals for further support.
988 Lifeline
The 988 Lifeline offers 24/7 call, text, and chat access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress.
Mobile Crisis Response
Crisis intervention services are available 24/7, 365 days a year, via telephone, telehealth, and face-to-face contact to provide crisis assessments, establish levels of care, develop safety plans, and implement appropriate interventions. Mobile Crisis Service providers are available to meet with individuals in their home or other community setting, or at an AMHC outpatient office.
First and foremost, AMHC’s crisis staff establishes the physical and psychological safety of the individual in crisis to guard against injury and even death. AMHC crisis staff are trained to ensure that the appropriate intervention considers the individual’s unique needs, circumstances, preferences, and goals.
Crisis Stabilization
For those who need ongoing support after an initial crisis assessment to remain in the community, Mobile Crisis Services providers offer crisis follow-up care for sixty days (as long as it is clinically indicated).
This service includes ongoing assessment of risk and safety, as well as crisis intervention support, with a focus on exploring coping skills that support clients in maintaining stabilization and achieving pre-crisis levels of functioning. It also involves safety planning and linkages to any necessary services. This approach supports clients in the least restrictive setting and helps them manage their crisis from home as they stabilize.
Crisis Stabilization Units
AMHC operates Adult Crisis Stabilization Units (CSUs), providing a secure and supportive short-term residential environment for individuals stabilizing from behavioral health crises (psychiatric medication management is not offered at crisis stabilization units). Units are staffed 24/7 by Crisis Counselors offering support, crisis intervention, safety planning, and service referrals.
Adult Crisis Stabilization Units
AMHC Adult Crisis Stabilization Units (ACSU) are located in Presque Isle and Calais. The ACSU is a voluntary service that offers crisis stabilization in a community-based setting. Each unit offers a 24-hour, short-term residential program for adults aged 18 and older experiencing a behavioral health crisis. The goal is to stabilize the client before higher levels of care are needed. The average length of stay is five to seven days. AMHC accepts all clients regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, primary language, or handicap. Both facilities are handicap accessible and ADA compliant.
Services
ACSU staff members provide one-on-one care and supervision to help develop short-term treatment goals. AMHC will collaborate with the client’s existing providers and help connect the client to resources and services that are needed post-discharge to support stabilization.
Individuals considered for admission to the ACSU will undergo a preliminary screening to ensure they meet the age and clinical admission criteria. Self-referrals are accepted. Referrals are accepted statewide, and anyone can make a referral by directly contacting the unit.
Adult Crisis Stabilization Unit, Aroostook County
180 Academy Street, Suite 1, Presque Isle
1-800-432-7805
Adult Crisis Stabilization Unit, Washington County
127 Palmer Street, Calais
207-454-1910
Crisis Intervention Stress Debriefing (CISD)
Crisis Intervention Stress Debriefing (CISD) is a method of aiding individuals or groups affected by community or workplace trauma, such as suicide, violence, or natural disasters. It helps individuals cope with and recover from the aftermath of such incidents. CISD assures participants they're not alone in their reactions and offers a safe space to share thoughts and emotions. Ideally, CISD takes place within 24 to 72 hours post-incident and can be accessed by reaching out to the AMHC Call Center at 1-800-244-6431.
Confidential Helplines
Discover essential support services tailored to your needs. From crisis helplines to behavioral health resources and youth assistance, find the guidance you seek. Access confidential and free help today!
988 Helpline
The Lifeline offers 24/7 call, text, and chat access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress.
OPTIONS Maine
Contact your local OPTIONS liaison for guidance on naloxone, Maine's Good Samaritan Law, or suitable substance use disorder (SUD) services for yourself or a loved one.
NAMI Teen Support Line
Free, confidential support for youth aged 13-23, staffed by trained specialists aged 18-24, available daily from 2 pm to 10 pm EST.