Following an annual program review by the Center for Evidence Based Practices at Case Western Reserve University, Zepf Center’s Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team has reached fidelity, an important milestone that confirms their compliance with program standards and practices. The positive results from the team's most recent review mark a key moment in their pursuit of excellent, accessible and client-centered mental health services at Zepf Center.

ACT concepts emerged in 1970 as a revolutionary force in mental health care. ACT was developed in response to the limitations of traditional approaches and continued to gain widespread recognition for its community-based and client-centered services, promising positive outcomes for individuals with severe mental illness. 

At Zepf Center, integrated, accessible, whole-person treatment is a top priority, and the ACT Team is a vital part of that mission. As an evidence-based practice that improves outcomes for people with severe mental illness, ACT is a vital resource for those who are most at risk of psychiatric crisis, hospitalization and involvement in the criminal justice system.

“Zepf Center has made a significant investment in providing the evidence-based fidelity model of care coordination,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “It is with pride we offer patients ACT services by the finest psychiatrists in Northwest Ohio.”

Zepf Center’s ACT Team was established in 2017 to address a growing need for intensive mental health care in Northwest Ohio. By building and maintaining consistent, caring, person-centered relationships, clients experience positive health outcomes and improved quality of life. Additionally, research shows that ACT reduces hospitalization and increases housing stability for people with the most severe symptoms of mental illness. 

Three current ACT Team members—Dr. Chandani Lewis, ACT Coordinator Adam Rodriguez and ACT Case Manager Robin Hensley—have been with the program since its inception and have witnessed the program’s growth over the last six years. They are joined by team members Dr. Alyse N. Stolting, Community Based Case Manager Melanie Redlawski and Case Manager Teddy Morse alongside Registered Nurses Bob Reicher and Ellen Curtis.

ACT Team Lead John Byrne accepted his new role just six months ago but has solidified himself as a leader and force for change in the program.

“John was the ACT Therapist but stepped up to lead the ACT Team when the opportunity presented itself,” Zepf Center Chief Integration Officer Linda Nordahl. “The impressive fidelity score is a direct reflection of his leadership, even though it has only been a short time.”

Fidelity in the context of ACT refers to team adherence to the core principles and practices of the ACT model. It is not merely a checkbox; it is a testament to the unwavering commitment to providing top-tier, evidence-based care for individuals grappling with severe mental illnesses.

To ensure these outcomes are achieved and maintained for participating clients, all ACT programs must complete a yearly fidelity review and achieve a passing score. Teams are evaluated in 28 distinct areas including human resources, organizational boundaries and nature of services. Teams must score an average of 4 on a 5-point scale to be considered well-implemented and reach fidelity standards. 

“This is a team of dedicated professionals who provide quality services,” Nordahl said. “I have the utmost respect for them.”

Serving 98 clients in 2023, the ACT team remains a beacon of dedication and innovation. Comprised of psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, and vocational specialists, Zepf Center’s dynamic team tirelessly works together to elevate the quality of mental health care in our community.

“The ACT Team plans to continue providing quality services and to grow the program in 2024,” Nordahl said. “For almost 50 years, Zepf Center has been committed to improving the lives of those with severe mental illness, which was exactly the vision of our founder Elizabeth Zepf.” 

Congratulations to Zepf Center’s ACT Team for their hard work and dedication to this program. Fidelity is a testament to their unwavering loyalty, trustworthiness and the high standard of excellence this team consistently upholds. Their fidelity score not only speaks volumes about their perseverance but also inspires those around the agency. The ACT Team's dedication translates directly to positive changes in the lives of those they serve.

To learn more, please visit https://case.edu/socialwork/centerforebp/practices/assertive-community-treatment.

To access Zepf Center ACT Team services, please call 419.984.7701.