Psychiatric Emergency Screening Services
Psychiatric Emergency Screening Services (PESS) provides 24/7 crisis intervention service for all ages. PESS offers in-person emergency crisis intervention to those experiencing suicidal or homicidal ideation, acute psychiatric instability, or inability to care for their mental, physical, or emotional wellbeing.
We’re here to help with:
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Depression
Identifying and treating depression and other mood disorders.
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Stress & Anxiety
Identifying and treating anxiety disorders.
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Mood Disorders
Helping to identify and treat mood disorders, like bipolar disorder.
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Trauma
Providing support to navigate traumatic events and aid in the healing process.
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PTSD
Supporting you to identify and treat PTSD and other mental health challenges due to stress and trauma.
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Grief & Loss
Helping you to move forward with your grief and feelings of loss.
Eligibility
- Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis
- For more information, you can call (609) 465-5999 for Cape May County or (856) 845-9100 in Gloucester County.
What to Expect
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Reaching Out
To contact PESS, call (856) 845-9100 for Gloucester County, or (609) 465-5999 for Cape May County. A community member, family member, or friend can call on your behalf, or you can receive a referral from a hospital.
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Arranging Services
Following receipt of a referral, the PESS team will perform a crisis assessment to determine the appropriate level of care to meet your needs. PESS facilitates referral and transfer to inpatient psychiatric care for those in need of that level of service. For individuals being discharged to the community, PESS will develop personalized care plans to ensure you have the support and services you need to maintain wellness and stability.
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Moving Forward with Care
If you need a higher level of care, PESS will connect you with the appropriate services and support. If not, you’ll be free to leave and can always call back if you need further emergency services.
FAQ’s
What will happen after my crisis assessment?
An assessment will determine whether you need a higher level of care or can be discharged back to your community. If extended care is needed, PESS will assist in finding the right support.
Will PESS help my family member access inpatient care?
While PESS does not provide inpatient care, if it is determined that your family member needs a higher-level care, then we will help them in finding that care.
Will my family member be safe?
PESS will do everything in our power to ensure your family member’s safety while they are in an emergency screening and will assist them in finding further care if it is determined that they are still a danger to themselves or others.
How do I qualify for Psychiatric Emergency Screening Services?
To qualify for PESS services, you must:
- Have a referral from a hospital, or a family or community member can call on behalf of their loved one.
- For more information you can call (609) 465-5999 for Cape May county or (856) 845-9100 in Gloucester county.
What is Psychiatric Emergency Screening Services (PESS)?
Psychiatric Emergency Screening Services (PESS) provides immediate behavioral health assessments for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis. Our licensed clinicians evaluate each person’s needs, help stabilize the situation, and determine the most appropriate level of care, whether that involves community-based services or a higher level of treatment.
What should I expect during a crisis assessment?
A licensed mental health professional will meet with you to understand what you’re experiencing, discuss your symptoms and immediate concerns, assess your safety, and determine the most appropriate next steps. The assessment is designed to connect you with the care and support you need as quickly and safely as possible.
Can someone else call PESS if they are concerned about me or a loved one?
Yes. A family member, friend, healthcare provider, or other concerned individual can contact PESS if they believe someone is experiencing a behavioral health crisis. Our team will gather information, provide guidance, and determine the most appropriate next steps based on the situation.
Will PESS connect me with ongoing behavioral health services?
Yes. If you do not require inpatient psychiatric care, PESS will help connect you with appropriate outpatient treatment, community resources, crisis services, or other behavioral health programs to support your continued recovery and help reduce the risk of future crises.
What happens if I do not need to be hospitalized?
If the crisis assessment determines that you can safely remain in the community, the PESS team will work with you to develop a personalized safety plan and connect you with outpatient behavioral health services, community resources, and other supports that meet your needs. Our goal is to help you access the right level of care while supporting your ongoing recovery.
