Introduction

Emergency Services (ES) performs pre-admission screening evaluations, provides short-term crisis counseling services, and provides referrals and linkage on an emergency basis for individuals in the City of Norfolk.

ES is designed to concentrate efforts on seeing an identified crisis through to an initial level of resolution. The focus is on reducing emotional distress and it's manifestations in an effort to institute initial stabilization and ameliorate perceived stressors. When community alternatives have been exhausted and the individual is in need of a safe and secure environment, ES may initiate a Temporary Detention Order (TDO) and pre-admission screening services in accordance with the Virginia Statute 37.2-809.

Services

ES provides immediate response to any individual in the City of Norfolk who requests assistance. ES assists in mobilizing the individual's natural support systems (family, friends, community groups), and other resources found in the individual's community. The unit assures the implementation of the individual's civil rights, particularly as they relate to the individual's right to treatment, right to refuse treatment, confidentiality, detention, and the least restrictive alternative options.

Services Provided

The following services are provided at Emergency Services:

• 24 hours per day, 7 days per week provision of services
• Expert testimony in court
• Telephone counseling
• Information and referral
• Face-to-face crisis counseling
• Pre-Admission screening (for hospital or Crisis Stabilization Unit)
• Initiation of temporary detention order in accordance with Virginia statutes