Today marks another milestone for the Grand Traverse Mental Health Crisis and Access Center as it officially moves to 24/7 operations and begins to offer Psychiatric Urgent Care services on weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm.
“Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can now has access care at The Center any hour of the day, every day of the year,” said Michael Corby, GTMHCAC Behavioral Health Director. “This is an exciting day and a significant step forward in the mental health resources we are able to provide our community.”
In addition to the crisis services currently provided by Northern Lakes Community Mental Health Authority (NLCMHA), the center will now also offer Psychiatric Urgent Care operated by Munson Healthcare on weekdays (8 am - 5 pm). Psychiatric Urgent Care serves people with acute behavioral health needs that are serious but not immediately life-threatening, which can include:
- Imminent risk of harm to others (e.g., threats with a clear plan and intent).
- Escalating symptoms of depression, anxiety or mania without immediate danger.
- Suicidal ideation with or without a plan and intent.
- Behavioral changes that are concerning but do not pose an immediate safety risk.
- Need for timely medication adjustments, crisis intervention or short-term stabilization.
An Emergency Department may be the most appropriate setting if there is an immediate risk to life due to disorientation, psychosis, aggressive behavior, or serious medical concern like overdose, chest pain, or significant injury. An individual whose symptoms are stable, in ongoing treatment, and effectively using medication and coping strategies may be best served through outpatient services.
“The Center adds a much-needed component to the behavioral health continuum of care that’s been missing in our community,” said Terri Lacroix-Kelty, Munson Healthcare Executive Director of Behavioral Health. “We’ve seen a steady increase in the number of people utilizing the center during these initial six months and we’re excited about the impact these expanded hours and addition of psychiatric services will have in our community.”
As a non-profit, The Center accepts all patients and all forms of insurance. It opened in January with NLCMHA providing select services through the Welcome Center, Sunday-Thursday (8 am - 8 pm). Expanding to 24/7 coverage and the addition of Psychiatric Urgent Care represents Phase 2 operations.
An adult crisis residential unit and pediatric crisis residential unit are set for the final two phases anticipated to come online late-2025 into 2026 based on licensing and staff.