300 Southgate Ave. Iowa City, IA 52240 319.688.8000
300 Southgate Ave. Iowa City, IA 52240 319.688.8000
GUIDELINK CENTER
Our goal is to provide easier access to immediate, onsite assessment and stabilization—outside of a hospital setting—for those 18+ years of age who are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis.
GuideLink Center is a community-initiated collaborative led by the Johnson County Board of Supervisors. It is designed to offer a welcoming space where experienced staff can deliver 24/7 services, including rapid assessment, triage, stabilization, and follow-up resources. The Center will have beds available for individuals who require stays of up to five days.
Our goal is to create an effective alternative for those in need who, until now, may have had no other choice than to go to an emergency room or be sent to a jail. Individuals will be able to walk into our center; be brought in by friends or family members; or be accompanied by law enforcement. You do not have to be a resident of Johnson County. Individuals over 18 years old will be provided care regardless of their ability to pay. Insurance may be billed if available; deductibles and co-pays may apply.
GuideLink Center’s mission is to provide immediate care for adults facing emotional, mental health, or substance use challenges. We also will work with individuals and their families to provide support as they seek to transition to ongoing, follow-up resources.
Here are just a few of the situations in which an individual, their family, or local law enforcement might contact us for help:
Please note we are not equipped to handle medical or surgical emergencies, but minor medical first aid will be available, along with a telemedicine connection to UIHC’s emergency department when triage consultation is needed.
Behavioral Health Crisis Stabilization: Prompt evaluation and treatment for individuals presenting with acute symptoms or distress, including “crisis stabilization” beds for stays up to 5 days as necessary to restore individuals’ ability to maintain safety and return to the community. These beds allow for a thorough evaluation, initiation of treatment and connection with follow up services.
Sobering Service: A safe place where someone can be closely watched while they withdraw from alcohol or other substances, and includes an opportunity to examine one’s interest or need to become involved in substance use treatment
Detoxification: Provides a safe, medically supervised space for individuals to withdraw from drugs or alcohol and stabilize before engaging in a treatment program
Referrals to Affiliated Partners:
Please consider providing feedback. GuideLink Center would love to hear your experience.
This effort is being led by the Johnson County Board of Supervisors and other key organizations and members of the community who serve on the executive and steering committees.
We’d like to thank these key partners who have helped GuideLink Center move from a vision to a reality.
Our list of partners is continually expanding.
GuideLink Center is managed by UnityPoint Health- AbbeHealth.
Please click below and select “AbbeHealth-GuideLink Center” to make a donation online. You may also contact Abbey Ferenzi, Executive Director, at 319-688-8240 or abbey.ferenzi@unitypoint.org to arrange in-person donations. Thank you!
When operational, GuideLink Center will be open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. If you would like to receive updates on GuideLink Center, please enter your name and email address below.