FAQs

If your teen requires immediate medical attention at a hospital in Richmond, VA, you may want to consider visiting a pediatric emergency room. All hospitals treat pediatric patients, but not all have separate pediatric ER care, and in our personal experience, we found those pediatric emergency rooms to be more compassionate and understanding.

• Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU
• Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital
• HCA Chippenham Hospital

Each facility has specific programs and treatment approaches. It’s essential to contact them directly to learn about admissions, treatment options, and insurance coverage. These facilities provide specialized care for children and teens in crises. Learn more about our personal experiences at Children’s Hospital at VCU and HCA Chippenham Hospital here.

Yes, there are many reputable websites to explore, including:

• Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine (SAHM)
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• U.S. Department of Health & Human Resources
• The Trevor Project (focused on LGBTQ+ youth)
• Mental Health America
• Crisis Text Line (Text HOME to 741741 for free, 24/7 support)
• National Eating Disorders Association
• Go Ask Alice!
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
• Health Talk

The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) oversees mental health, developmental disability, and substance use services across the state. It supports Community Services Boards (CSBs) and state-run facilities to ensure individuals receive essential care, including crisis intervention, outpatient treatment, and long-term support. DBHDS also works on policy development, service coordination, and improving access to behavioral health resources for Virginians

Yes. Under Virginia Code § 37.2-500, every county or city must have a Community Services Board (CSB) to provide essential behavioral health and developmental services.

In addition, CSBs help children, adults with mental health, developmental, or substance use needs, individuals in psychiatric crisis and people needing residential support, outpatient care or day services.

Services include:

• Emergency services, including 24/7 psychiatric crisis response
• Same-day mental health screenings
• Outpatient primary care
• Case management services
• Mental health, developmental, and substance abuse services

To find services near you, visit here. 

FAPT stands for Family Assessment and Planning Team and is part of the Children’s Services Act (CSA)—a state-mandated, locally implemented program that provides funding for services to at-risk youth and their families.

What does FAPT do?

• Assesses the needs and strengths of youth and families
• Determines if youth qualify for funding
• Recommends services for youth and families
• Develops a service plan
• Monitors progress toward goals

Who is involved in FAPT?

• Representatives from schools, social services, mental health agencies, and other organizations
• Parents and guardians
• Private service providers

How does FAPT work?

1. FAPT meets with youth and families to discuss their needs and strengths.
2. They review information from case managers, school records, and psychological reports.
3. A service plan is created to address the youth’s needs.
4. Follow-up meetings are held to adjust the plan and track progress.

Reach out to the Office of Children’s Services and select your County and CSA coordinator to obtain contact information.