Each May, Mental Health Awareness Month reminds us that mental health is just as important as physical health. It’s a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and highlight the services and people who make healing and recovery possible in our communities.
At Zepf Center, this month holds special meaning, as our teams work every day to ensure that individuals and families have access to compassionate, whole-person care. Our trauma-informed staff is dedicated to meeting people where they are and walking alongside them on their personalized journey to wellness.
This year, we’re proud to recognize two team members whose work reflects the heart of Mental Health Awareness Month: Matthew Brunsman and Torenzo Gregory. In recognition of the incredible work they do each day, these exceptional professionals are recipients of the 2026 Lucas County Mental Health & Recovery Service Board (MHRSB) awards for their outstanding contributions to behavioral health care in Lucas County.
Matthew Brunsman: SUD Professional of the Year
With more than nine years at Zepf Center, Matthew Brunsman has built a reputation as a compassionate counselor, dedicated advocate, and leader in the field of substance use disorder treatment.
Matthew specializes in working with individuals involved in the criminal justice system, meeting them where they are with honesty, respect, and support. From intake through every stage of care, he provides guidance that is both direct and deeply empathetic, helping individuals navigate recovery while encouraging accountability and growth.
His impact goes far beyond one-on-one counseling. Matthew is an educator at Owens Community College, where he teaches CDCA classes and helps shape the next generation of behavioral health professionals, many of whom bring their own lived experiences to the field. He is also actively involved in the Zepf Center Recovery Support Center, encouraging individuals to build strong recovery networks and engage in ongoing support.
His work highlights the fact that recovery doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes community, collaboration, and ongoing support. Through partnerships with courts, probation, and community organizations, Matthew ensures his clients have access to comprehensive care.
“He relates with them ‘where they are,’ understanding the real struggles they face with great compassion and empathy,” said Hon. James R. Knepp II, United States District Judge, Northern District of Ohio. “I have seen him sitting in the gallery when one of his clients is being sentenced, not in an official capacity, but just to support them. I can state unequivocally that Matt has saved lives on my watch.”
Matthew’s dedication goes above and beyond, often showing up simply to support his clients during critical moments. That level of care reflects the kind of human connection that makes recovery possible. He is a fierce advocate for dignity, a believer in human potential, and a steady source of support for those working toward lasting recovery.
Torenzo Gregory: 2026 Consumer Involvement Award
Torenzo Gregory’s journey is a powerful example of transformation and purpose. After completing treatment at Zepf Center and living in recovery housing, Torenzo turned his personal recovery into a mission to help others find their own path forward.
Today, as a Certified Peer and Recovery Support Specialist, Torenzo meets individuals at some of the most uncertain and difficult moments in their lives, often within the court system. In these settings, where fear and stigma can feel overwhelming, Torenzo brings a unique and powerful understanding. By sharing his own story, he helps people see that recovery is not only possible but within reach.
“What makes Torenzo stand out is his ability to connect,” said Zepf Center Chief Recovery Officer Craig Gebers. “He turns his own recovery into a source of strength for others, and reminds them that they are not alone.”
Since joining the Zepf Center team in 2021, Torenzo has become a vital part of peer support services, including his work with the MATTER grant. He spends his days in the community, connecting individuals to mental health and substance use treatment, answering questions, and making sure no one feels alone in the process.
His compassion, authenticity, and dedication have made him a trusted advocate, a role model within the peer community, and a bridge between systems that can often feel disconnected. Torenzo helps ensure individuals understand their options and feel empowered to take the next step.
“Recovery is not a single moment, but an ongoing process built on trust, support, and human connection,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “Matthew and Torenzo exemplify what it means to provide compassionate, person-centered care, and we are honored to celebrate their impact.”
Matthew and Torenzo represent the very best of what behavioral health care can be, as they continue to provide compassionate, person-centered care that is grounded in real understanding. Their work strengthens not only the individuals they serve, but our entire community.
While we are honored to celebrate their achievements, Mental Health Awareness Month is also about action and ensuring people know where to turn when they need help.
At Zepf Center, we provide a full continuum of care, including…
- Mental health counseling for children, adults, and families
- Substance use disorder treatment and recovery supports
- Peer support services led by individuals with lived experience
- Crisis services and community-based care
- Primary Care services for the whole family
- Integrated care that supports both physical and behavioral health
This Mental Health Awareness Month, we celebrate Torenzo, Matthew, and every person who dedicates their lives to supporting others. Their work shows that recovery is real and happening every day.
If you or someone you know needs support, Zepf Center is here. Help is available, healing is possible, and hope starts with reaching out.
To learn more, visit zepfcenter.org or call 419-841-7701.