Icon: Critical Response

Critical Response

Crisis Stabilization Services

Located on the Children’s Square Campus in Council Bluffs, Iowa

Contact Us Today
Home » Services » Critical Response » Crisis Stabilization

A safe place for youth in crisis—and a path back to stability 

When a child or teen is experiencing a mental health crisis, families need immediate, compassionate support. CSI’s Crisis Stabilization Residential Services (CSRS) program, located on our Children’s Square Campus in Council Bluffs, provides short-term, trauma-informed care for youth who are Iowa residents, ages 8–18 who are struggling with suicidal thoughts or severe emotional distress but do not require hospitalization. 

Our goal is simple: help youth stabilize in a safe, calming environment for successful reintegration back into their home and community. This service is available 24/7 and referrals can be made at any time.

In A Mental Health Crisis? Call Anytime Day or Night:

712-828-7458
What makes Crisis Stabilization different from hospitalization? 
  • A trauma-informed approach in a home-like setting
  • 24/7 supervision and therapeutic support
  • A calming environment designed to reduce anxiety and behavioral challenges
  • Daily therapy and skill-building to begin the healing process

Each child receives an individualized crisis stabilization plan developed in collaboration with mental health professionals at the time of arrival. Medication administration is available as needed, and family involvement is encouraged throughout the stay. 

“We meet each child where they are at—providing safety, care and hope when families need it most.” – Eric, Crisis Stabilization Supervisor 

Contact Us

Where We’re Located

CSI’s Crisis Stabilization Residential Services

Located in the Cottonwood Crisis Center on the Children’s Square Campus
520 North 7th Street | Council Bluffs, IA 51503

Program Details

Ages Served
8-18 years (primarily teens)

Capacity
Up to 6 children

Length of Stay
Up to 5 days

Referral
Available 24/7; parents or community partners (schools, hospitals, therapists) may refer

Environment
Safe, trauma-informed, designed to reduce anxiety and promote healing

Care Provided

  • Daily therapy sessions  
  • At least one hour of skill-building each day 
  • Medication administration as needed  
  • Structured routines including hygiene, meals and calming activities 

Program Leaders

Lora Sladovnik, MS, LIMHP - Program Director
Lora Sladovnik

Vice President of Behavioral Health

Email Lora

Read Bio
Armando Huerta

Sr. Director of Residential Care

Email Armando

Read Bio

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crisis Stabilization?

A short-term residential program for youth who are Iowa residents experiencing a mental health crisis and need immediate support but do not meet hospitalization criteria. 

How long does a child stay?

Typically 3–5 days, with a focus on stabilization and reintegration back home.

Who can refer a child?

Parents or guardians usually initiate referrals, but schools, hospitals, therapists and community partners can assist families in connecting to this service.

What makes this different from hospitalization?

Our program is trauma-informed and designed to be calming and supportive—not punitive. It provides intensive care in a home-like environment rather than a clinical hospital setting.

What happens during a stay?

Youth receive daily therapy, skill-building and structured routines. An individualized crisis stabilization plan is developed at intake with mental health professionals.

What happens after discharge?

Families receive guidance and resources for ongoing care, including outpatient therapy and medication support if needed.

Icon: Get Help

Get Help

View Services
Icon: Join Our Team

Join Our Team

View Positions
Icon: Support with a Gift

Support CSI with a Gift

Donate Today

Mickey Crampton

Site Director at Spellman Child Development Center

Mickey Crampton, Site Director at Spellman Child Development Center, has dedicated her career to fostering growth and learning among educators while making a positive impact on young students' lives. With over four years at Spellman and a wealth of experience in early childhood education, Mickey's expertise and passion for teaching make her an invaluable asset to the organization.

Arriving in Nebraska from California to pursue collegiate softball, Mickey discovered her love for working with children through nannying and eventually transitioned to childcare while completing her education. Her unique perspective and hands-on experience as a lead teacher, along with a bachelor's and master’s degree in human development, have paved the way for her success in various roles within the early childhood education field.

Mickey values humanity as the key to a thriving community at Spellman. By cultivating a safe and empathetic environment for students, families and staff, she ensures a nurturing space for all.

In her free time, Mickey cherishes moments with her family, engaging in outdoor activities such as swimming, going for walks, and camping. With her unwavering dedication to education and community well-being, Mickey Crampton's wealth of experience and passion for teaching make her an exceptional leader at Spellman Child Development Center.

Armando Huerta

Senior Director of Residential Services

Armando Huerta serves as the Senior Director of Residential Services at the Child Saving Institute, where he brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to supporting individuals in need. With a strong background in management and community outreach, Armando is dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment for all residents.

Throughout his career, Armando has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic planning skills, ensuring that the shelter operates efficiently and effectively. His passion for empowering vulnerable populations drives him to continuously seek innovative solutions and advocate for systemic change.

Outside of work, Armando enjoys watching sports with his family, playing pickleball, and participating in NFL fantasy leagues. These hobbies not only provide relaxation and fun but also reflect his love for teamwork and competition.

With a personable nature and a collaborative spirit, Armando inspires his team to work together and leverage their unique strengths. His dedication to community well-being and his ability to connect with people make Armando an invaluable asset to the Child Saving Institute.

Lora Sladovnik, MS, LIMHP - Program Director

Lora Sladovnik, MS, LIMHP

Vice President of Behavioral Health

Lora, who oversees the Behavioral Health program, has been an invaluable member of CSI since 2020. Her commitment to the organization’s mission is unwavering, as she tirelessly serves children and families, fully aware that her work directly impacts the well-being and mental health of those in the Omaha and surrounding communities.

Lora's role at CSI is multifaceted, providing her with a constant source of interest and fulfillment. The collaborative environment allows her to work closely with like-minded professionals who share her profound passion for helping others, which she finds deeply rewarding.

Before joining CSI, Lora's career in the human services field included diverse positions in case management, foster care, therapy (including private practice) and a director role at an eating disorder program. Her unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of those she serves is a testament to her empathetic and nurturing nature.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Lora is an eager advocate for community well-being, regularly engaging in volunteer work and contributing to various community organizations. Her active involvement in her children's school and church underscores her commitment to fostering a better world.

In her free time, Lora finds joy in spending quality time with her family, prioritizing exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle, embarking on journeys that allow her to explore new places and indulging in her passion for cooking.