Crisis services are intended to provide screening, problem resolution and referrals before situations escalate to an emergency or other higher level of intensity and service.
- Services are flexible.
- Services are available whenever they are needed and for as long as they are needed.
- Services are provided in a variety of ways and consider the uniqueness of an individuals and circumstances.
- Services focus on strengths of consumers in order to help them maintain a sense of identity, dignity, and self esteem.
- Services are responsive to the needs of the client rather than the needs of the system.
- Services incorporate consumer self-help approaches and are provided in a manner that allows clients to retain the greatest possible control over their own lives.
- Services are racially and culturally appropriate.
- Services will meet special needs of individuals

All programs of Mental Health Crisis Services will use the following steps as guidelines in the provision of services:
Support
- Assess Lethality and/or dangerousness
- Establish rapport/open communication
- Identify problems/concerns
- Explore alternatives which address concerns and feelings
Direction
- Develop intentions/action plan/assist with motivation
- Establish follow-up as accepted by consumer