Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Clinic at IU Health Riley Hospital for Children — Child psychologist in Indianapolis, IN

The experience at Riley Children's Health psychiatric inpatient facility raises significant concerns regarding patient handling, communication, and clinical decision-making. After a deeply negative and unsafe experience at Community North Behavioral Health, we contacted Child Protective Services (CPS) seeking guidance to ensure our child’s safety. CPS explicitly instructed us to go to Riley inpatient for what was described as more efficient and appropriate care. Upon arrival, the intake process was immediately distressing and lacked sensitivity. Our child was required to strip down to only boxers, which was both uncomfortable and dehumanizing given the circumstances. Meanwhile, our entire family—including an infant—was made to wait in a confined room for approximately four hours with no meaningful updates or communication. After this extended delay, we were moved to the behavioral health area, where the intake process became even more concerning. We were repeatedly told that admission was not guaranteed, yet our child was isolated for an additional two hours in only his boxers, without clear clinical justification or emotional support. This approach appeared inconsistent and unnecessarily distressing for a minor already in crisis. When the evaluation was finally completed, the decision to deny admission was based largely on the child stating he was “okay,” despite extensive context provided by both parents, CPS guidance, and prior facility concerns indicating potential danger. This decision reflects a troubling disregard for collateral information, which is critical in pediatric psychiatric assessments. Furthermore, when we attempted to advocate for our child’s safety and explain the urgency of the situation, the staff response was dismissive and escalated unnecessarily. Rather than engaging in constructive dialogue, we were met with threats of security involvement, which only heightened the distress of both the child and family. Ultimately, our child—who we explicitly communicated was not safe to return home—was discharged without appropriate intervention, resources, or support. This outcome not only contradicts the guidance we received from CPS and law enforcement, but also raises serious concerns about patient safety protocols and clinical judgment. This experience reflects a breakdown in trauma-informed care, family communication, and risk assessment. Facilities entrusted with pediatric behavioral health must prioritize safety, compassion, and collaboration—standards that, in this situation, were not met.

Due to mental health issues our child needed to be helped. The staff is kind and knowledgeable. We have extensive experience with mental health hospitals and clinics because we value the mental health of our families. If you need help with your child, I can't recommend a better hospital. They are professionals and so nice. But most importantly, they actually care.

Iu health

I was a patient here and they were incredible. they were able to help me take the right steps in my future and rediscover my self worth.

We called to make an appointment for a person in my household -- Was told no doctors were taking patients (online nearly all their doctors are listed -- on their own website -- as taking new patients). When we asked if there were any other resources they said no. Also, a year wait to see a doctor. No wonder people avoid looking for mental healthcare assistance. Just getting an appointment requires a referral from your primary care doctor AND a year's wait.

Staff is great! They try to help in every way possible and are very understanding of my childs needs. I felt my child was safe at all times and got all the help she needed.