#USA #mental health #Hicksville #Community Crisis Center #CN Guidance

Opening of the Community Crisis Center

On December 6, 2025, CN Guidance & Counseling Services launched its long-awaited Community Crisis Center (CCC) in Hicksville, NY. This facility promises to revolutionize the approach to mental health and substance use crises in Long Island by providing immediate care 24/7, 365 days a year. The center's establishment was celebrated with a grand ribbon-cutting ceremony the day before, attended by community leaders, healthcare professionals, and local residents.

Jeffrey Friedman, CEO of CN Guidance, expressed his gratitude for the enthusiastic community turnout. He emphasized the dire need for such accessible crisis services amidst increasing mental health challenges faced by individuals and families. The center aims to be a reliable lifeline for those in need of immediate support, offering a comprehensive range of services designed to stabilize and support individuals experiencing crises.

Services Offered at the Community Crisis Center

The Community Crisis Center is fully operational and ready to serve various needs. Some of the key services provided include:

• - Immediate Walk-in Access: Individuals can walk in without an appointment to receive urgent care.
• - On-Site Mental Health Evaluation: Trained professionals will conduct assessments to identify the needs of those seeking help.
• - Outpatient Detox: The center offers detox services for individuals dealing with substance use, alongside medication-assisted treatments.
• - 24-Hour Nursing Support: Medical professionals are available around the clock to ensure the health and safety of visitors.
• - Peer-Led Recovery Support: The staff includes individuals with lived experience, providing peer support to enhance the recovery process.
• - Aftercare Planning: The center ensures individuals leave with a structured plan to continue their care journey.

During the community open house, visitors toured the facility, met with clinical staff, and got an overview of the innovative care model that distinguishes the CCC. The center aims to bridge the gap between hospital emergency departments and ongoing community-based treatment, providing an accessible, safe, and supportive environment for those in crisis.

Importance of This Initiative

The CCC has been recognized by key stakeholders, including state officials from the New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) and the Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS). OMH Commissioner Dr. Ann Marie Sullivan highlighted the center’s potential to address the escalating youth mental health crisis and the ongoing opioid epidemic through improved access to care. OASAS Commissioner Dr. Chinazo Cunningham echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of having a facility that offers immediate support without long wait times for those in need.

In addition to addressing acute crises, the CCC represents a significant step towards proactive mental health care. With the increasing understanding of mental health issues and destigmatization, centers like CCC serve as vital resources in the community.

Commitment to the Community

CN Guidance has been serving children and adults struggling with mental and emotional disorders since 1972. With a strong focus on underserved populations, they strive to ensure equitable access to mental health services. The opening of the Community Crisis Center reflects this commitment and is expected to make a considerable impact on community health.

Those interested in learning more about the Community Crisis Center are encouraged to visit CN Guidance's official website. The facility is located at 950 S. Oyster Bay Rd., Hicksville, and is ready to serve the Long Island community's needs now and in the future.