Pediatric Inpatient Mental Health Care
Children who need psychiatric hospitalization require a program designed around childhood development rather than an adult treatment model in a smaller setting. PBBHC's planned pediatric program will provide short-term inpatient care focused on safety, stabilization, emotional and behavioral skill development, family engagement, and transition back to home, school, and community supports.
Future servicePlanned care generally for ages 6-11. Contact intake for program availability and eligibility information.
Care designed specifically for children
The planned program is intended for children experiencing significant emotional, behavioral, or psychiatric crises that require a structured hospital setting. Assessment considers symptoms, safety, developmental needs, behavior, medical considerations, family context, previous treatment, and the level of support needed to return safely to the least restrictive appropriate setting.
Planned treatment components
- Psychiatric evaluation and medication management
- Nursing care and structured safety support
- Psychoeducation using developmentally appropriate language
- Behavioral skill building, including impulse control, frustration tolerance, and problem solving
- Structured play and play-based therapeutic interventions
- Family therapy and parent/caregiver education when appropriate
- Expressive therapies such as art, music, writing, or movement
- Recreational and physical activity
- School-related or educational activities as appropriate and available
- Discharge planning coordinated with family and community supports
Family engagement is essential
Parents and caregivers bring essential knowledge about a child's daily behavior, routines, treatment history, strengths, and support needs. Family participation helps connect hospital goals to the child's transition after discharge.
Frequently asked questions
What ages will be eligible?+
The planned pediatric inpatient population is generally ages 6-11. Eligibility will depend on clinical and medical criteria and licensure requirements.
What kinds of needs will the program address?+
The planned scope includes significant emotional, behavioral, or psychiatric crises requiring inpatient treatment. Contact intake for program availability and eligibility information.
Is this the same as adolescent inpatient care?+
No. Pediatric and adolescent psychiatry are separate planned programs because clinical structure, developmental interventions, family participation, and educational needs differ by age.
How will parents be involved?+
Family engagement is part of the planned model. Participation, communication, and visitation will follow hospital policy, consent requirements, and the child's clinical needs.
Confirm the pediatric program before making arrangements.
Contact PBBHC for the latest opening information, age criteria, and referral requirements.