Home / Services / Youth Acute Unit

Your child is more than the crisis they’re going through. We see that, too.

Youth Acute Unit

Name: Kootenai Health
Price range: $

Your child is more than the crisis they’re going through. We see that, too.

Youth Acute Unit

Call (208) 625-4820 | Transfer a Patient

Inpatient hospital-based treatment for youth in crisis.

A mental health crisis can turn your child’s world—and yours—upside down. Kootenai Health’s Youth Acute Unit provides specialized inpatient care for youth ages 10–17 who need 24-hour mental health support in a safe, nurturing environment.

Our strengths-based program brings together child and adolescent psychiatrists, therapists, nurses and case managers to understand your child’s needs and help them regain safety, stability and hope. Care may include diagnostic assessment, medication management, and individual and family therapy, with the goal of preparing each child for a successful return home, to school and to their community.

North Idaho’s Only Youth Unit

Inpatient behavioral health for ages 10–17

Kootenai Health provides specialized inpatient mental health care for youth and families across the Inland Northwest.

24/7 Support

A dedicated team available around the clock

Our multidisciplinary team provides support day and night, with a focus on helping your child become safe and stable.

Family Involvement

Healing happens together

Take part in treatment planning, therapy and discharge planning so you understand your child’s progress and feel prepared for what comes next.

“We care for each child as a whole person, looking at their unique biology, psychology, developmental stage, and social world. Our goal is to use this understanding to help children and their families navigate the current crisis and identify resources to continue to support recovery and growth in their community.”

— Dr. Boydston, M.D.

What to Expect

Before Admission

During Treatment

Going Home

Preparing for Admission
Our team will guide you through the admission process and answer questions about what to expect during your child’s stay.

We’ll help you understand:

What to expect during your child’s stay
How we’ll support your child’s individual needs
Answers to any questions or concerns you have before admission

Admission Forms
If your child is being admitted to the Youth Acute Unit, complete the required forms before their stay.

→ View Youth Admission Forms

What to Bring

Because the unit has specific clothing and personal-item guidelines for safety, review the Family Information Packet before your child’s stay.

→ View Family Information Packet

Focused Support in a Secure Environment
Your child’s care begins with a diagnostic assessment to help our team understand their needs and determine the right treatment approach. Treatment is provided by a team that includes adolescent psychiatrists, therapists and nurses.

What Your Child’s Day May Include

Individual, family and group therapy
On-site school Monday–Friday, with coordination with your child’s school
Recreation therapy
Life skills and coping skills
Medication when appropriate
Structured activities and time for rest

How Long Will My Child Stay?
The average stay is 7–10 days, depending on your child’s needs and progress.

Keeping You Involved
You’ll have members of your child’s treatment team to help you understand their progress and plan for what comes next. You can also contact the unit for updates during their stay.

Planning for What Comes Next
Before your child leaves, we’ll work with you to create a plan for continued support and a safe transition back to daily life.

Your child’s discharge plan may include:

Recommendations for ongoing treatment and support
Connections to community resources
Strategies and tools to use at home
Support for returning to school and daily routines

Need Help?

Questions About Your Visit?

Call (208) 625-4820

MyChart Patient Portal

View test results and medical history anytime.

Need Portal Setup Help?

Check out MyChart Getting Started Guide or ask our nurses or front office to get started.

Key Resources

Family Information Packet

Explore Related Services:

Adult Inpatient Mental Health

Adult Recovery Unit

Behavioral Health

Take the next step.

For Youth Transfers

Find instructions and required forms for transferring a youth to Kootenai Health Behavioral Health.

Transfer a Patient

Youth Acute Unit

Youth Acute Unit

Inpatient hospital-based treatment for youth in crisis.

North Idaho’s Only Youth Unit

24/7 Support

Family Involvement

What to Expect

Explore Related Services:

Take the next step.

We're Here to Help

For Youth Transfers