STATE HOSPITAL SERVICES
State Hospital Services
At Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare, Inc., we are committed to supporting individuals across every step of their mental health journey—including transitions involving Indiana’s state psychiatric hospitals. Our State Hospital Services are designed to ensure smooth access to care, timely support, and safe, person-centered reintegration into the community.
Gatekeeper Services
Our Gatekeepers play a vital role in ensuring continuity of care for individuals who are transitioning into or out of Indiana’s state psychiatric hospital network. As trusted liaisons between Southwestern Behavioral Healthcare, Inc. and the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA), our gatekeepers:
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Assist individuals in navigating the complexities of the mental health system
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Advocate for client needs within hospital and legal systems
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Coordinate admission and discharge processes, including development of person-centered discharge plans
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Connect individuals with ongoing community-based supports, treatment, housing, and other recovery-focused resources
Our gatekeeping process ensures that every individual receives the right level of care, at the right time, with a focus on recovery, dignity, and reintegration.
Adult State Psychiatric Hospital Referrals
Adult referrals to a state psychiatric hospital may be considered in the following circumstances:
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Justice-Involved Individuals
Individuals who have been found incompetent to stand trial may be transferred to a state psychiatric hospital to receive competency restoration services.
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Civil Commitment Cases
Individuals who are currently receiving inpatient psychiatric care under a civil commitment may be referred to a state psychiatric hospital when the hospital treatment team deems it appropriate and necessary for further treatment.
Gatekeepers ensure that each referral is thoroughly evaluated for clinical appropriateness, legal criteria, and ongoing support planning.
Youth State Psychiatric Hospital Referrals
Youth referrals to Indiana’s state psychiatric hospital system are reviewed through a collaborative and clinical process led by Southwestern’s specialized team. This process includes:
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Clinical Review by an Internal Committee, composed of:
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Director of Child and Family Services
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Board-Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist
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Licensed Clinical Social Work Clinical Manager
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Designated Youth Gatekeeper
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This team works together to determine if a youth meets the clinical and functional criteria for admission to a state psychiatric hospital, ensuring that referrals are thoughtful, trauma-informed, and aligned with long-term recovery goals.
Contact our Gatekeepers
Do you have questions or need help understanding the referral process? Our team is here to help.
📧 Email: gatekeeperinformation@southwestern.org. We’re here to answer your questions and guide you through the next steps.
