Specialized Programs
Some children need a program built for their diagnosis rather than the standard unit. The Children’s Hospital runs two.
Both run inside the hospital and are written into the child’s overall treatment plan.
The STATE Program serves children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder in a dedicated unit, providing ABA-based treatment informed by our affiliation with the Cleveland Clinic Children’s Center for Autism.
The BIRCH Program provides long-term treatment for high-acuity male adolescents ages 12 to 17. It’s the first program of its kind in Kentucky, developed in partnership with and funded by the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services.
Trauma-Focused CBT, EMDR and DBT are available in every program when a child needs them.
The Walk-In Clinic is open 24/7 for psychiatric assessments, no appointment necessary. Call the Children’s Hospital at (270) 689-6800.
What to Expect
Placement in a specialized program starts with a thorough assessment. If your child’s needs fit one of these programs, the team will discuss it with you and explain exactly what it involves.
Specialized programming follows the same rhythm as the rest of the hospital: structured days, family involvement, and careful discharge planning.
Other Children’s Hospital Services
Inpatient Services
Inpatient psychiatric care for children and teens ages 5 to 17 at our 80-bed Owensboro hospital, with an on-site school, family therapy and discharge planning.
Acute Psychiatric Inpatient
Short-term inpatient care for children and teens in psychiatric crisis: immediate safety, 24/7 monitoring, and a plan for what happens next.
Individual Group Family Therapy
Individual, group and family therapy for every child in the hospital, using TF-CBT, EMDR and DBT, with parents and caregivers part of the plan.
Specialized Therapeutic Activities
Art, music, movement, games and recreation, built into every child’s daily schedule as part of treatment.
Medication Evaluation Management
Medication evaluation and management by child and adolescent psychiatrists, with parents in on every decision and daily monitoring during the stay.
Nursing Care Crisis Support
Registered nurses and behavioral health associates on the unit 24 hours a day, handling medications, health needs and de-escalation.
Behavioral Intervention Services
Behavior support planning led by a board-certified behavior analyst: find what a behavior is for, teach a better way to get the same thing, and coach the family on it.
