Psychiatric Inpatient Acute Care in New Jersey | Hackensack Meridian Health   

Psychiatric Acute Care Unit at Carrier Clinic

Supportive Treatment for Acute Psychiatric Conditions in New Jersey

At Carrier Clinic® in Belle Mead, New Jersey, our Psychiatric Acute Care Unit (ACU) provides specialized care for individuals experiencing acute psychiatric conditions. Whether a patient is admitted voluntarily or involuntarily, every person receives personalized support in a safe and healing environment.

Our care model follows a bio-psycho-social approach, focusing on the individual as a whole, including the mind, body, and environment. The goal is to help patients stabilize, build coping skills, and prepare for a successful return to their communities.

Comprehensive Individualized Treatment

Each patient’s treatment plan is tailored to their unique needs. We offer supportive counseling and education for both patients and their families to help everyone involved understand the recovery process. Therapy focuses on building practical coping strategies and emotional resilience to ease the transition from hospitalization to everyday life.

Specialized Therapy and Group Programs

Our multidisciplinary team leads a range of group therapies designed to foster healing, connection, and self-expression:

  • Creative Arts Therapy
  • Art Therapy
  • Music Therapy
  • Dual Diagnosis Support
  • Spirituality Groups
  • Medication Education
  • Grief and Loss Counseling
  • Stress and Anger Management

Safe, Structured, and Healing Environment

The Carrier Clinic® environment is built to support emotional balance and comfort. Spaces like the Serenity Lounge and Quiet Area help reduce overstimulation and promote calm.

A favorable staff-to-patient ratio and ongoing assessments ensure that each individual’s safety and well-being remain top priority. Every part of the environment, from lighting to staff interaction, is designed to create a sense of safety and trust.

Continuous Supervision and Crisis Prevention

For patients at higher risk of self-harm or aggression, our 24/7 observation system provides round-the-clock care and supervision. Specially trained Crisis Intervention Specialists monitor, assess, and respond early to signs of distress or escalation.

This high level of attention helps prevent crises and supports stabilization throughout each patient’s stay.

Crisis Hotlines

Hackensack Meridian operates four 24/7 crisis hotlines to support the needs of residents of New Jersey who are experiencing a psychiatric emergency, may have received care at our facilities, or are seeking referral or guidance to care or resources in New Jersey. 

If you are experiencing an emergency or life-threatening situation and need immediate assistance call 911.

Please call the Hotline location closest to where you had or need care.


•  Jersey Shore University Medical Center (Neptune) 732-776-4555
•  Riverview Medical Center (Red Bank) 732-219-5325
•  Raritan Bay Medical Center (Perth Amboy) 732-442-3794
•  Palisades Medical Center (North Bergen) 201-854-5760 

Common Questions About Acute Psychiatric Treatment in New Jersey

An acute psychiatric condition refers to a severe mental health crisis that requires immediate, structured care. The ACU supports individuals experiencing symptoms such as severe depression, psychosis, or suicidal thoughts.
Yes, family counseling and education are included in treatment to help loved ones understand the recovery process and provide ongoing support once the patient returns home.
The ACU provides a variety of therapy groups, including creative arts, music, spirituality, and stress management, all designed to promote emotional stability and recovery.
Each patient receives continuous observation and personalized supervision from a trained multidisciplinary team. Spaces such as the Serenity Lounge support relaxation and safety.
A team of licensed mental health professionals, nurses, therapists, and crisis intervention specialists work together to provide compassionate, evidence-based treatment.
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