Psychiatric Inpatient Hospitalization

Saint Luke’s Hospital of Kansas City Crittenton Children’s Center’s inpatient program helps children experiencing an immediate mental health crisis. The inpatient hospitalization team works to stabilize the child’s symptoms so they can be safely returned home.

Most children who are admitted for inpatient treatment have demonstrated behaviors that make them a danger to themselves or others within the last 24 hours. On average, children stay for three to five days during which they learn to manage their symptoms using appropriate coping strategies. 

At Crittenton, we use evidence-based therapy, which means therapies that have been rigorously tested and proven effective. Our commitment to evidence-based practices is part of why Crittenton is highly regarded by former patients, families, and other medical providers.

Crittenton’s inpatient 30-day readmission rate of 6% is three times lower than the national average.*

This is a testament not only to the high-quality care offered during hospitalization, but also our team’s collaboration with the family or guardians to provide follow-up care for the child after discharge.

Insurance accepted at Crittenton.

To request an evaluation for admission, call 816-765-6600.

What to expect

If your child is having a mental health emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department. If you think your child is in need of inpatient hospitalization services, Crittenton is available 24/7 by calling 816-765-6600. Our intake team will discuss your current situation and what options are available, including scheduling a same-day appointment for an in-person assessment. During the assessment, a specially trained mental health professional will gather information to help our team determine if the child requires admission. A member of the Crittenton medical staff then will provide a recommendation for next steps. Parents or guardians are encouraged to be present for the entire assessment and admission process. 

If it is determined that inpatient hospitalization is not the best option, our team will work with the family to determine the next best steps for care, including outpatient clinic or a referral to a mental health professional.

*Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services