The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) has granted Zepf Center a three-year accreditation following an extensive review of the agency's integrated behavioral health services, trauma-informed practices, and commitment to whole-person care. This achievement marks Zepf Center's 14th consecutive accreditation, reinforcing its position as a trusted leader in behavioral health care, hope, and recovery throughout Northwest Ohio.
During the site visit, CARF surveyors reviewed more than 2,600 standards, resulting in exceptional accreditation outcomes for both behavioral health services and the Opioid Treatment Program (OTP). Among the highest ratings ever achieved by the agency, this review represents an extraordinary accomplishment and reflects Zepf Center’s commitment to excellence across its continuum of care.
CARF is recognized internationally for accrediting organizations that provide the highest quality health and human services. The accreditation process includes a rigorous review of organizational practices, service delivery, outcomes, leadership, and compliance with globally accepted standards. Earning a three-year accreditation is the highest level of accreditation awarded by CARF and reflects exceptional compliance with their high benchmarks.
In addition to the remarkable survey results, reviewers were overwhelmingly impressed by Zepf Center's staff and the culture of care evident throughout the organization. One surveyor remarked, "I'm stuck on your staff—they are amazing," highlighting the compassion, professionalism, and dedication demonstrated across programs and departments.
“The CARF accreditation process gives us a chance to highlight the perseverance, warmth, and expertise of our staff,” said Zepf Center Sr. Director of Compliance Walter Wehenkel. “Hearing such positive feedback from the survey team was incredibly rewarding and confirms that our efforts to provide exceptional care are making a meaningful impact.”
The survey team also recognized Zepf Center's ability to provide truly connected care for individuals and families. Through a comprehensive continuum of services spanning early childhood through older adulthood, Zepf Center helps ensure that individuals can access the support they need at every stage of life. By connecting mental health, substance use treatment, primary care coordination, housing supports, vocational services, crisis intervention, and family-centered programming, the organization delivers care that addresses the whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Surveyors also noted the welcoming and personalized environments throughout Zepf Center's residential homes, treatment facilities, and youth-specific areas. From vibrant murals and creative spaces designed for youth to individualized residential settings that foster dignity and belonging, the agency's physical environments reflect its commitment to healing and recovery.
The impact of the whole-person approach to care was most evident in the feedback shared by children, youth, and families served by Zepf Center. Families described the agency as a source of hope, stability, and transformation during some of the most difficult periods of their lives. Parents spoke about stronger family relationships and improved well-being, while youth shared powerful stories of recovery and resilience.
These experiences reinforce the importance of Zepf Center's trauma-informed, person-centered model of care. Healing does not happen in isolation, and when one person receives support, families grow stronger, relationships improve, and communities benefit. Through its commitment to connected care, Zepf Center continues to create pathways to hope and recovery for individuals and families throughout Northwest Ohio.
For more than 50 years, Zepf Center has served as a trusted behavioral health resource for the community. This latest accreditation achievement recognizes the quality of services provided today and affirms the agency's ongoing commitment to innovation, continuous improvement, and providing accessible, person-centered care to those who need it most.
“This achievement belongs to every member of our team,” said Zepf Center CEO Deb Flores. “Their passion, professionalism, and commitment to excellence are what make outcomes like this possible. We are proud to provide the compassionate, person-centered care our community deserves.”
As consumers face many choices when seeking healthcare services, CARF accreditation serves as a symbol of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement. With this outstanding survey result, Zepf Center has once again demonstrated its position as a leader in behavioral health care and its commitment to helping individuals and families build healthier, more hopeful futures.
To learn more about Zepf Center’s full continuum of trauma-informed care, visit zepfcenter.org or call 419-841-7701.