Emplify Health by Gundersen has opened Wisconsin’s first dedicated emergency mental health facility, the Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment and Healing (EmPATH) unit, at its La Crosse campus. The facility, which opened in April, aims to transform how mental health emergencies are handled by providing a calming, specialized environment away from the traditional emergency room.
Under the EmPATH model, individuals experiencing a mental health crisis will still first present to the emergency room but are then transferred to the new unit instead of waiting with other patients. The 5,000-square-foot unit features eight exam rooms, dedicated spaces for assessments, and a calming atmosphere designed to promote safety and comfort for patients, families, and staff.
Patients meet with a psychiatric provider within the first hour of arrival to review diagnoses, treatment plans, and medications. They then work with behavioral health professionals to address the immediate crisis and determine next steps, which may include inpatient care or discharge with outpatient follow-up. The unit can accommodate patients for up to 23 hours.
“We’re excited to offer yet another avenue of care for our neighbors who need support for their mental health,” said Josh Court, director of Emplify Health by Gundersen Behavioral Health. “We understand the critical need for this type of care, and Emplify Health by Gundersen is committed to leading with innovative models like EmPATH.”
The EmPATH unit is part of a broader strategy to improve access to mental health services. By providing a dedicated space and streamlined process, the model reduces wait times and delivers better care in an environment designed for patients’ needs. The unit also serves as a resource for families and caregivers, offering guidance during challenging times.
“The space is a vital tool for our staff, allowing them to provide immediate and effective care for patients in mental health crises,” Court added. “This space is designed to immediately bring healing to patients, as well as facilitate quick assessments and interventions, ensuring individuals receive the support they need as soon as they arrive. Our goal is to create a safe haven where patients can feel secure and begin their journey toward recovery.”
Emplify Health is a not-for-profit healthcare network with headquarters in Green Bay and La Crosse, Wisconsin. It employs more than 15,000 people, including over 1,400 clinicians, across 11 hospitals and more than 100 clinic locations in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Upper Michigan, and Iowa. The opening of the EmPATH unit marks a significant step forward in addressing mental health emergencies in the state. More information is available at emplifyhealth.org.
