What is the Mobile Crisis Unit?

The Mobile Crisis Unit (MCU) is an emergency mental health program of the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board that provides on-scene evaluation, treatment and crisis intervention in the community.

The MCU specializes in providing these services to individuals who are experiencing a mental health emergency and who need, but are unwilling or unable to seek, mental health treatment.

In many of these situations there is concern that, as a result of a psychiatric condition, the person may be a danger to self or others or may not be caring for self or have the ability to protect self from harm.

While the goal of the MCU is to enlist the individual’s cooperation and develop the least restrictive treatment options, the MCU is authorized to recommend and facilitate involuntary hospitalization and treatment when necessary.

The MCU also specializes in responding to referrals from the Police, Fire and Rescue service, and other public safety agencies on cases where mental health consultation and intervention are needed. In many situations, the MCU is able to assume responsibility for the case; enabling these 1st Responders to quickly clear the scene to resume their other duties.

MCU staff is available 24/7 to respond to hostage/barricade incidents involving the Fairfax County Police Department (FCPD) Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team and in partnership with FCPD Crisis Negotiation team (CNT).  In addition, MCU responds to mass casualties and other critical incidents in the community utilizing psychological first aid and other acute interventions.