At Zepf Center, we know that exceptional care starts with informed, empowered staff. In our industry, ongoing education and professional development are not extras; they are essential to providing high-quality, trauma-informed services to the individuals and communities we serve.
Every member of our team, whether a clinician, peer, or administrative staff, plays a vital role in the organization. Because of this, Zepf Center’s leadership team offers numerous opportunities each year for employees to grow professionally through local, state, and national trainings and conferences.
Attending these events gives our staff the chance to explore the latest industry trends, cutting-edge research, and updates in regulations and legislation. By learning and sharing new ideas, our team ensures that we continue providing the highest quality care to our clients. This year, our staff have attended several conferences and trainings that are shaping the future of our programs, strengthening our expertise, and increasing our impact.
“In order to provide the best level of care for our community, we need to be following national trends and staying up to date on the latest behavioral health practices,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “By empowering our staff to attend conferences and trainings, we’re ensuring their continued growth and expertise so they can bring the most effective, evidence-based approaches back to the clients and communities we serve.”
Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) Certified Instructors’ Conference
Strengthening Crisis Response, Safety, and Trauma-Informed Care
Safety and compassion go hand in hand when supporting clients in crisis. Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI) training, rooted in verbal de-escalation and trauma-informed communication, equips staff with the tools to respond effectively.
All employees receive CPI training during new hire orientation, with renewals every two years. To stay current, our CPI trainers attend seminars annually, bringing back the latest techniques to share across the organization.
“CPI training empowers our staff to feel more comfortable when dealing with clients in crisis,” said CPI Trainer and Crisis Care Coordinator Bruce Stevens. “Responding to clients' needs with empathy and understanding improves client care and outcomes.”
The strategies taught in CPI not only enhance client care but also help prevent burnout, lower costs, and reduce time missed by employees. Staff are equipped to respond quickly and effectively, implementing real-time solutions that keep situations from escalating.
Ohio Association of Community Health Centers (OACHC) 2025 Fall Conference
Improving Compliance, Quality, and Client Care
Several members of our leadership and compliance teams recently traveled to Ohio’s state capital to gather important updates for our Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) operations. This training supports Zepf Center’s FQHCs at Central Ave. and Nebraska Ave., which provide accessible, affordable care to individuals and families of all ages. Through sliding scale fees and a full range of comprehensive services, these centers ensure that quality healthcare remains within reach for everyone in our community.
At this conference, our employees learned about monitoring and protecting client data, tracking statewide performance indicators, and implementing new approaches to quality improvement and compliance.
“This information will help us remain compliant with the laws and regulations surrounding FQHCs,” said Sr. Director of Compliance Walter Wehenkel. “I look forward to sharing this guidance with my committee and continuing to improve our services.”
International Human Trafficking and Social Justice Conference
Uniting to Learn, Connect, Collaborate, and Combat Human Trafficking
Reinforcing our commitment to the community and our ongoing efforts in human trafficking prevention, Zepf Center staff recently attended the 22nd Annual International Human Trafficking and Social Justice Conference at the University of Toledo. This global event brings together advocates, professionals, and survivors to share knowledge, raise awareness, and strengthen prevention and advocacy efforts for those affected by trafficking worldwide.
Through powerful presentations and collaborative discussions, our team gained deeper insight into the complex intersections between mental health, substance use, and human trafficking, and how trauma-informed care can play a vital role in recovery.
By continuing to learn and engage in these critical conversations, Zepf Center remains committed to supporting survivors, promoting safety, and helping every individual build a path toward healing and hope.
National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR) 2025 Best Practices Summit
Shaping Policy, Expanding Funding, and Strengthening Leadership
Staff from our Recovery Housing leadership team returned from the NARR Best Practices Summit with a renewed perspective on how research, data, and lived experience can be leveraged to influence policy and funding.
Attendees discovered how combining research, data, and real-life experiences can clearly show the true impact of Recovery Housing services on clients, families, and communities. Using this approach, Zepf Center can craft stronger grant proposals, drive effective advocacy, and make informed strategic decisions that promote sustainable growth and open doors to additional funding opportunities.
Leadership and team growth were also major themes from the 2025 NARR Summit. Attendees emphasized that strong leadership means listening to staff, creating space for others to grow, and recognizing strengths across departments.
“Leadership means listening to what others want rather than your intent for them,” said Recovery House Manager Robert Riedy. “In my role, I do this by creating space for teams to develop their own solutions and being open to feedback from all levels.”
During the multi-day conference, attendees explored best practices in recovery housing, emphasizing person-centered and community-driven care. Staff highlighted the importance of listening to residents’ stories, responding to conflicts with compassion, fostering a sense of belonging to strengthen accountability, and creating positive first impressions in every client interaction. While many of these approaches are already part of daily practice at Zepf Center’s Recovery Housing locations, the conference reinforced that staff are implementing proven strategies and provided fresh perspectives to enhance the recovery experience.
The value of professional development goes far beyond the conference or training itself. Our staff return with new tools, a renewed sense of purpose, and practical strategies that strengthen both their confidence and our organization. Additionally, these experiences support increased safety practices, trauma-informed approaches to care, collaboration across departments, and improved communication throughout the agency.
We are incredibly proud of the dedicated staff who represent Zepf Center at conferences and trainings across the nation. They return inspired, ready to innovate, collaborate, and lead with new knowledge and energy that strengthens our mission and services. Their growth directly benefits our clients and community, ensuring we continue to provide high-quality, person-centered care.
If you are passionate about making a difference and want to join a team committed to excellence, explore our current job openings at www.zepfcenter.org/careers/. To learn more about our full continuum of behavioral health services, call 419-841-7701 or visit www.zepfcenter.org.