San Diego County officials announced on Mar. 9 the opening of a new Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) at Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center, expanding urgent behavioral health care access for South Bay residents.
The addition of this CSU is intended to provide immediate support for people experiencing behavioral health crises, offering short-term, intensive treatment in a safe environment. The facility is co-located within the hospital’s new Emergency Department, aiming to create a more appropriate and supportive pathway for those in need.
Nadia Privara Brahms, director of County Behavioral Health Services, said, “We are excited about this partnership with Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center because it is providing another access point for people with urgent behavioral health needs. The CSU offers a will calming environment for people in crisis with support from licensed clinicians who can help them on their path to recovery.”
Crisis Stabilization Units now operate across San Diego County around the clock, delivering clinical stabilization, crisis intervention, assessments, medications, and peer support services. The next CSU is expected to open this spring in El Cajon as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the continuum of care and improve timely access to behavioral health services.
San Diego County Government supports historic preservation and community development through various boards and initiatives, according to the official website. The San Diego County Administration Center serves as a landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places according to the official website. Essential services are delivered by groups focused on public safety, health and human services, land use and environment, finance and general government, and community services according to the official website.
The San Diego County Board of Supervisors provides legislative leadership and policy direction for these efforts. Sarah Aghassi currently serves as interim chief administrative officer according to the official website. The county serves residents across urban, rural, mountain, and desert regions according to the official website, while also managing regional airports through its self-supporting aviation department according to the official website.
With continued expansion of CSUs like this one at Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center and future plans in El Cajon, county leaders say they aim to further improve mental health resources throughout San Diego.
