Peer respites are staffed and operated by people with psychiatric histories or who have experienced trauma and/or extreme states. This means that: 1) 100% of staff have lived experience of extreme states and/or the behavioral health system; 2) All individuals in program/house management positions have lived experience of extreme states and/or the mental health system; 3) Job descriptions for program/house management positions require lived experience of extreme states and/or the mental health system; and 4) The peer respite is either operated by a peer-run organization OR has an advisory group with 51% or more members having lived experience of extreme states and/or the behavioral health system.  For more information on peer respites you can visit www.peerrespite.net.

Click here for an overview peer respites in the United States (PDF, 1.02MB, 9 pages)

California

2nd STORY PEER RESPITE HOUSE

Website: https://www.encompasscs.org/second_story
Location: Santa Cruz, CA
Phone: 831-688-0967

Second Story is a six-bed house which serves as a respite and a voluntary opportunity for individuals to learn to use relationships to move out of old roles and patterns. Staffed by “peers,” (people with lived experience of mood swings, consuming fears, voices, visions, etc.) who have learned to be with some discomfort, the household provides an opportunity to experience what change feels like, and to learn new responses through relationships with each other. With the expectation that everyone is capable and inherently knows what they need, both paid staff and guests create a space for those qualities to surface. Along with creating a home, we share stories to connect and understand each other’s experiences, gently challenging ourselves to listen to the untold story. The hope is not to rebuild a culture of illness, but instead generate some sparkling moments of connection and trust, lessons which will spill over into the future. Those who are drawn to the program develop, with staff, ahead of time, a plan for dealing with feelings and behaviors that in the past have led to inpatient stays. The first contact with staff is the beginning of using different views, working together to figure out what might be different. The summary of this meeting is kept on file until a time comes when a potential guest wants to stay at Second Story. The plan is updated and used as a guide to get good results from the time together at Second Story.

Second Story offers a maximum stay of 13 days in a home environment, and provides guests with opportunities to identify and plan for changes they feel will benefit them once they have returned home. All former guests are offered ongoing telephone support, and are welcome to visit when they need encouragement from their peers and Second Story staff. Program participants also have opportunities to enroll in Intentional Peer Support training and learn to be of assistance to others.

The start-up has been funded by a 2010 Federal Transformation award and is open to Santa Cruz County Mental Health clients 18 and over, who have housing, and have completed a proactive interview or first contact interview.

BLACKBIRD HOUSE PEER RESPITE

Website: http://www.fcservices.org/blackbird-house-respite/
Location: Santa Clara County, CA
Phone number: 408-292-2777
Email: blackbirdhouse@fcservices.org

Blackbird House Peer Respite offers a offers a safe, supportive, and home-like setting for adults who are experiencing or at-risk of a psychiatric crisis. Guests may stay up to 14 days.

During their stays, guests have time, space, and support to turn what could be a crisis into a time of learning and growth. Guests may choose to participate in groups and wellness activities, and to get connected with local resources. Blackbird House is run by peers who have “been there” and who have completed extensive training to support the wellness of guests. The house is staffed 24/7 and is open year-round.

Guests self-refer for this voluntary program. Eligibility guidelines: Guests must be 18 years of age or older with full Medi-Cal benefits, Medi-Cal eligible, or no health insurance; self-identify as experiencing mental health concerns or distress that does not meet requirement for inpatient hospitalization; have an identified place of residence to stay in Santa Clara County at the time of intake (which could include a shelter); be able to manage medical needs independently; voluntarily agree to engage in services; and not be in need of detox or immediate medical attention and be able to function independently in a communal environment.

Blackbird House is a program of Family & Children Services of Silicon Valley, a division of the nonprofit organization Caminar.

CEDAR HOME

Location: Weaverville, CA
Phone: 530-623-1820
Email: Rtrujillo@kingsview.org

Cedar Home Crisis Respite is currently open five days per week.

Cedar Home Peer Respite’s mission is to create a local Peer Run resource to provide an alternative to out of county and involuntary placements that focuses upon recovery principles that guests find user friendly.

Program Eligibility Requirements

• 18 years of age or older
• Guests must agree to a basic house structure out of respect for other guests.

Staff are trained in…

• Certified Peer Specialist
• Intentional Peer Support (IPS)

HACIENDA OF HOPE

Website: https://prpsn.org/services-peer-support-network.html?id=171
Location: 2241 W. Williams Street, Long Beach, CA 90810
Phone: 562-388-8183
Online contact form: https://prpsn.org/contactus-peer-support-network.html

Hacienda of Hope is a welcoming homelike environment that offers support, and tools for fostering wellness and managing crisis and recovery. Guests stay in a residential respite home that is run by peers with lived experience, 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Guests have the opportunity to create individualized wellness and recovery action plans that are entered around the 8 Dimensions of Wellness and Wellness Recovery Action Planning (WRAP).

Hacienda of Hope is a partnership between Project Return Peer Support Network (PRPSN) and Mental Health America Los Angeles (MHALA).

SHARE! RECOVERY RETREAT

Website: www.shareselfhelp.org
Location: Monterey Park, CA and North Hollywood, CA
Phone: 626-677-3850 (Monterey Park) and 310-827-1744 (North Hollywood)
Email: retreat@shareselfhelp.org (Monterey Park) and jessica@shareselfhelp.org (North Hollywood)
Funded by the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health

The SHARE! Recovery Retreat provides adults with up to two weeks of intensive recovery activities, including self-help support groups, independent living skills, conflict resolution and paths to achieving goals. Living together as a family in a home in a residential neighborhood, participants take responsibility for the program, meals, chores, budget and resolving issues as they come up. Stays range from one to 14 days. The people who work at the house are all people with lived experience of substance abuse, mental health disorders and more.

SALLY’S PLACE

Website: www.livelafamilia.org
Location: Alameda County, CA
Phone: (510) 963-9849
Email: sallysplace@lafamiliacounseling.org

Sally’s Place Peer Respite Home is the first and only of its kind in Alameda County. It is staffed by peers, in alignment with the objectives of the Pool of Consumer Champions (POCC) and the Alameda County Accelerated Peer Specialist Program (ACAPS).

Sally’s Place is named for Sally Zinman, a pioneer of the peer-led services movement. Her pivotal work spanning more than 40 years has been an inspiration to consumers and providers alike. Our systems are immeasurably better as a result of her advocacy and legacy.

Florida

GAINESVILLE PEER RESPITE

Website: www.gainsvillerespite.org
Phone: 352-559-4559
Email: gvillerespite@gmail.com

The Gainesville Peer Respite provides sanctuary and support to those who are experiencing or have experienced overwhelming mental/emotional distress. They seek to create a community that supports open dialogue, empowerment, self-determination, recovery and wellness.

Georgia

GEORGIA PEER SUPPORT AND WELLNESS CENTER

Website: www.gmhcn.org/wellnesscenter
Phone: 770-276-2019
Contact: Roslind Hayes, Statewide Coordinator
Email: wellnesscenter@gmhcn.org

The Peer Support, Wellness, and Respite Centers of Georgia are projects of the Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network, funded through a contract with the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.

The Peer Support, Wellness and Respite Centers of Georgia (PSWRCs) are peer-run alternatives to traditional mental health services. The first PSWRC was opened in Decatur, GA on January 30, 2008. In June 2011, two more locations were opened in North Georgia as a response to the regional hospital closing in North Georgia. In September 2014, two more PSWRCs were opened, also in response to a regional hospital closing in South Georgia. Each of the five PSWRCs offer a 24/7 warmline, daily wellness activities, community resources, computers/wifi, and 3 respite rooms where a person can stay for up to 7 days instead of going into  psychiatric hospital. The PSWRCs are open from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm for house tours, activities, community outings, general resources, and computers. See the website for more detailed information and schedules for each PSWRC.  [Visit their website]

Locations:

Metro Atlanta
Address: 444 Sycamore Dr; Decatur, GA 30030
Director: Jayme Lynch, CPS
Phone: 404-371-1414
Email: jayme@gmhcn.org

White County
Address: 46 Knaus Drive; Cleveland, Ga 30528
Director: Victoria Fuller, CPS
Phone: 706-865-3601
Email: victoria@gmhcn.org

Bartow County
Address: 201 N Erwin St; Cartersville, GA  30120
Director: Jennifer Barnett, CPS
Phone: 770-276-2019
Email: jennifer@gmhcn.org

Colquitt County
Address: 417 2nd St. SE; Moultrie, GA 31768
Director: Shaun Johnson, CPS
Phone: 229-873-9737
Email: shaun@gmhcn.org

Henry County
Address: 67 Keys Ferry St; McDonough, GA  30253
Director: Noah Williams, CPS
Phone: 678-782-7666
Email: noah@gmhcn.org

Iowa

RHONDA’S HOUSE

Website: www.lifeconnectionsrecovery.org
Location: DeWitt, IA
Phone: 563-659-1171
Email: info@lifeconnectionsrecovery.org

Rhonda’s House (Iowa’s Only Peer-run Respite Center) provides a safe and welcoming environment for individuals who are experiencing a mental health crisis and who voluntarily choose temporary respite services to restore well-being and the ability to manage their lives. Rhonda’s House is an alternative to the more restrictive care of a locked psychiatric hospital facility. 

Massachusetts

AFIYA

Website: www.afiyahouse.org
Location: Northampton, MA
Phone: 413-570-2990
Email: info@westernmassrlc.org
Funded primarily by the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health

Afiya strives to provide a safe space in which each person can find the balance and support needed to turn what is so often referred to as a ‘crisis’ into a learning and growth opportunity. Afiya is located in a residential neighborhood in Northampton, Massachusetts and is central to a variety of community resources. It is available to anyone ages 18 and older who is experiencing distress and feels they would benefit from being in a short-term, 24-hour peer-supported environment with others who have ‘been there.’ Typical stays at Afiya range from one to seven days. The majority of people you will meet (including in leadership roles) at Afiya identify as having lived experience that may include extreme emotional or altered states, psychiatric diagnoses, trauma histories, living without a home, navigating the mental health and other public systems, addictions and more.

KARAYA

Website: www.kivacenters.org
Location: Worcester, MA
Phone: 508-751-9600
Email: info@kivacenters.org
Funded primarily by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services

Karaya offers rest and reflection for all people experiencing emotional distress. We support people through what is called ‘crisis’ to find healing. Karaya is a statewide Massachusetts-based initiative. Karaya Peer Respite has a team of Mobile Peer Respite Advocates that will offer support to you wherever you are in Massachusetts for up to 4 hours at a time multiple days a week. Our Karaya Peer Respite in addition to its mobile component has a 6-bedroom house based in Worcester, Massachusetts the second largest city in New England. Within our Karaya Peer Respite Home, we offer 24/7 peer support with a team of Peer Respite Advocates, we hold a brave space for depth and navigating trauma and/or emotional distress. All Peer Respite Advocates who work at our Karaya Peer Respite have lived/living experiences that may include mental health diagnoses, trauma, emotional distress, and substance use recovery.

Nebraska

HONU HOME

Website: https://mha-ne.org/programs-services/honu.html
Location: Lincoln, Nebraska
Phone: 402-975-2032
Email: dcommuso@mha-ne.org

Honu Home is a Peer-Operated Respite. Meaning that all staff and volunteers are individuals who experience mental health, substance use and/or trauma issues; many of whom have been incarcerated themselves. Honu Home is not a group home, half-way house or treatment program.

We believe in treating people like adults. We believe in giving people the right and responsibility to make choices and be the directors of their own lives. Many of us have experienced mental health systems, correctional systems, welfare systems etc. that often direct and plan our daily activities. At Honu Home we believe it’s time to take charge of your own life.

Who Qualifies for Services:

• Be coming out of a state correctional facility or
• Within 18 months after release or
• On parole or
• On state probation for a felony or
• Honu may be available to those on any type of state probation. Please speak to probation about utilizing Honu to get the referral process started.
• Have mental health and/or substance use and/or addiction issues

KEYA HOUSE

Website: https://mha-ne.org/programs-services/keya.html
Location: Lincoln, Nebraska, Mental Health Association of Nebraska
Phone: 402-261-5959
Email: info@mha-ne.org

Keya House is a peer-run respite program offering an alternative support system to psychiatric hospitalization. Keya House provides a comfortable, clean, furnished four-bedroom house in a quiet and safe neighborhood. Trained peer companions who are compassionate, understanding, and empowering offer self-help and proactive recovery tools to regain and maintain wellness. They understand the need for support in these difficult times, and offer strength, hope, and knowledge about recovery to those individuals who need a supportive and healing environment.

New Hampshire

CONWAY PEER SUPPORT CENTER

Location: Conway, NH
Phone: 603-447-1765
Email: alccenters@gmail.com

The Mission of The Alternative Life Center” is to provide a sanctuary where people 18 years old and older learn to create a personal vision leading to their own recovery. This journey toward recovery occurs in a compassionate atmosphere through education, peer support, sharing of common experiences and utilizing individual as well as community resources.

H.E.A.R.T.S. PEER SUPPORT AGENCY

Website: www.heartspsa.org
Location: Nashua, NH
Contact: Ken Lewis, Executive Director
Phone: 603-882-8400
Email: kenl-hearts@comcast.net

H.E.A.R.T.S. Peer Support Agency in Nashua, NH is open Monday through Saturday and provides a variety of groups and activities for members. H.E.A.R.T.S. has also added a two bedroom Crisis Respite program. People who choose to say as guests stay overnight from one to seven days and are welcome to bring their pets. This is an alternative to psychiatric hospitalization, serving individuals with overwhelming feelings including those who feel so badly that they do not want to continue living. Guests are free to come and go. Some continue to go to work and stay overnight at H.E.A.R.T.S. Guests bring and cook their own food and can have 24-hour peer support available to them. H.E.A.R.T.S. Crisis Respite Program creates an opportunity for people to learn from, and be supported in making the transition from crisis to wellness. Within the context of a mutually responsible relationship, and with the help of consumer staff’s experiential knowledge and training, those who sincerely wish to overcome their difficulties can greatly reduce the use of more restrictive hospital settings, including involuntary admissions. All services are free to New Hampshire residents.

MONADNOCK PEER RESPITE

Website: www.monadnockpsa.org
Location: Keene, NH
Contact: Karen Carrien, Respite Director
Phone: (603) 352-5093
Email: karen@monadnockpsa.org

Monadnock Area Peer Support Agency in Keene, NH is open Monday through Saturday and provides a variety of groups and activities for members. Monadnock Area Peer Support Agency has also added a two bedroom Crisis Respite program. People who choose to say as guests stay overnight from one to seven days and are welcome to bring their pets. This is an alternative to psychiatric hospitalization, serving individuals with overwhelming feelings including those who feel so badly that they do not want to continue living. Guests are free to come and go. Some continue to go to work and stay overnight at Monadnock Area Peer Support Agency. Guests bring and cook their own food and can have 24-hour peer support available to them. Monadnock Area Peer Support Agency Respite Program creates an opportunity for people to learn from, and be supported in making the transition from crisis to wellness. Within the context of a mutually responsible relationship, and with the help of consumer staff’s experiential knowledge and training, those who sincerely wish to overcome their difficulties can greatly reduce the use of more restrictive hospital settings, including involuntary admissions. All services are free to New Hampshire residents.

STEPPING STONE PEER SUPPORT & CRISIS RESPITE CENTER

Website: www.steppingstonenextstep.org
Location: Claremont, NH
Phone: 888-582-0920
Email: shanon.pyatt@steppingstonenextstep.org

Established in 1995, Stepping Stone is an active peer center open 7 hours a day Monday through Saturday with a variety of activities for clients and with two bedrooms for those who choose to stay as respite guests. People who choose to say as guests stay overnight from one to seven days and are welcome to bring their pets. This is an alternative to psychiatric hospitalization, serving individuals with overwhelming feelings including those who feel so badly that they do not want to continue living. Guests are free to come and go. Some continue to go to work and stay overnight at Stepping Stone. Guests bring and cook their own food and can have 24-hour peer support available to them. Stepping Stone Crisis Respite Program creates an opportunity for people to learn from, and be supported in making the transition from crisis to wellness. Within the context of a mutually responsible relationship, and with the help of consumer staff’s experiential knowledge and training, those who sincerely wish to overcome their difficulties can greatly reduce the use of more restrictive hospital settings, including involuntary admissions. All services are free to New Hampshire residents.

New Jersey

CSPNJ WELLNESS RESPITE SERVICES – Middlesex, Passaic, & Essex Counties, New Jersey

Website: www.cspnj.org

The Collaborative Support Programs of New Jersey (CSPNJ) Wellness Respite Service (WRS) is a peer operated crisis diversion resource located in Middlesex and Passaic Counties. Serving individuals who are 21 years of age or older and who are experiencing crisis or severe emotional distress, the WRS is geared for people who seek assistance in managing an acute crisis that interferes with their personal recovery and wellness. Guests are able to receive support in a comfortable home environment located in the community for up to 10 days, and an additional 30 days of follow-up support. The WRS is a unique opportunity for peers in crisis to connect, build relationships, gain support to lessen emotional distress.

Middlesex County Wellness Respite Services
Phone: 732-354-4403
Email: jquiles@cspnj.org

Passaic County Wellness Respite Services
Phone: 862-239-9896
Email: jquiles@cspnj.org

Essex County Wellness Respite Services
Phone: 862-229-1401
Email: jquiles@cspnj.org

Funded by the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services

New York

AFFINITY PLACE – Rochester

Website: https://easthouse.org/affinity-place/
Location: Rochester, NY
Phone: 585-563-7083
Email: Affinityplace@easthouse.org

Affinity Place is an 8-bed respite program for individuals experiencing psychiatric crisis and who live in Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Orleans, Wayne and Wyoming counties. The peer run warm line and respite program are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days per week and administered in collaboration with the Mental Health Association of Rochester. Affinity Place is a no-fee, recovery-oriented alternative to costly emergency room and inpatient hospitalizations.

COMMUNITY ACCESS, INC. CRISIS RESPITE CENTER – Manhattan

Website: https://www.communityaccess.org/our-work/adult-crisis-residence
Location: Manhattan, NY
Phone: 646-257-8401, x 0
Email: respite@communityaccess.org

The first of its kind in NYC, our Crisis Respite Center is an alternative to emergency hospitalization for individuals aged 18 and up experiencing psychiatric crises: a welcoming and supportive home-like environment.

For too long the default destination for New Yorkers in distress has been either the emergency room or prison. Our Crisis Respite Center offers, instead, warmth, empathy, and compassion together with access to a wide range of recovery-oriented services.

• 24-hour support from peers (individuals with lived experience of receiving mental health services and trained to provide support to others)
• self-advocacy education
• self-help training
• group and one-on-one activities, including: yoga, art, poetry, wellness self-management, meal planning, and meditation

Stays at the Center are voluntary and can last for up to seven days — and, to the fullest possible extent, guests are welcome to continue their regular schedules (at work, with treatment providers, etc.) during their stay. Guests may also receive visitors.

EAGLES NEST RESPITE HOUSE

Website: www.recoveryoptionsny.org
Location: Cattaraugus County, NY
Contact: Andrew Vincent-Tompkins, Director of Diversion Services
Phone: 844-421-1114 or 716-241-4605
Email: andrew.tompkins@recoveryoptionsny.org

Housing Options Made Easy, Inc. has developed innovative peer-run Short-Term Crisis Respite hospital diversion programs that fill a critical gap in the mental health services in Western New York. The Respite Centers provide a recovery-based alternative to existing hospital-driven emergency services. The Respite Centers are strength-based and are designed to promote wellness. The goal of the Respite Centers is to provide recovery-oriented, trauma-informed peer and formal support in a community setting.

Eagles Nest Respite serves Cattaraugus and Chautauqua Counties.  It is a short term (1-5 days) peer-run respite home operating in a capacity similar to a bed and breakfast. In most cases we can admit someone within an hour of the pre-registration phone call. Both respite homes can admit guests 24/7 and are open every day of the year.  Each respite is a place where people can reassess goals as they continue on their positive path in life.  The respite staff are all highly trained peer companions and advocates. Our goal is to foster hope for positive change by empowering individuals to discover the ability and knowledge within themselves to create healthy goals to support wellness. We provide opportunity for our guests to gain the tools that they need to continue to find their positive path in life and to help inspire others to do the same. We offer support and empathy, a non-Judgmental environment, one-on-one and/or group chats, empowerment, supportive relationships, linkage to community resources, educating and providing tools for continued wellness, advocacy, community outreach, art, music, cooking, journaling, and so much more!!!

REFRESHING WATERS RESPITE HOUSE

Website: www.recoveryoptionsny.org
Location: Erie County, NY
Contact: Andrew Vincent-Tompkins, Director of Diversion Services
Phone: 844-588-8427 or 716-248-2886
Email: andrew.tompkins@recoveryoptionsny.org

Housing Options Made Easy, Inc. has developed innovative peer-run Short-Term Crisis Respite hospital diversion programs that fill a critical gap in the mental health services in Western New York. The Respite Centers provide a recovery-based alternative to existing hospital-driven emergency services. The Respite Centers are strength-based and are designed to promote wellness. The goal of the Respite Centers is to provide recovery-oriented, trauma-informed peer and formal support in a community setting.

Refreshing Waters Respite serves Erie County.  It is a short term (1-5 days) peer-run respite home operating in a capacity similar to a bed and breakfast. In most cases we can admit someone within an hour of the pre-registration phone call. Both respite homes can admit guests 24/7 and are open every day of the year.  Each respite is a place where people can reassess goals as they continue on their positive path in life.  The respite staff are all highly trained peer companions and advocates. Our goal is to foster hope for positive change by empowering individuals to discover the ability and knowledge within themselves to create healthy goals to support wellness. We provide opportunity for our guests to gain the tools that they need to continue to find their positive path in life and to help inspire others to do the same. We offer support and empathy, a non-Judgmental environment, one-on-one and/or group chats, empowerment, supportive relationships, linkage to community resources, educating and providing tools for continued wellness, advocacy, community outreach, art, music, cooking, journaling, and so much more!!!

RIVERDALE MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION CRISIS RESPITE CENTER

Website: https://mosaicmh.org/for-adults/ (Click Crisis Respite Center)
Location: Bronx, NY
Phone: 718-884-2992
Email: info@mosaicmh.org

Mosaic MH operates the Bronx Crisis Respite Center (CRC), which is part of a new, innovative citywide approach to helping adults who are experiencing psychiatric crisis. CRC NYC provides a “soft landing” as an entry point to the mental health system. The program comprises mobile crisis teams, Crisis Respite Centers (as a short-term alternative to hospitalization), and a Peer operated Support Line.

At our Bronx CRC, we create a warm, homelike, and supportive environment for guests to learn recovery and relapse prevention skills. The Crisis Respite Center is staffed by trained Peer specialists who have lived the experience of mental illness, providing a living example of hope for our guests. The CRC is funded by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the Medicaid Program.

ROSE HOUSE HOSPITAL DIVERSION PROGRAM by People USA
Serving Dutchess, Putnam, Orange, Ulster, Warren and Washington Counties

Rose Houses are 100% peer-operated short-term crisis respites that are open and accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Rose Houses are trauma informed safe, empowering, self-determined learning communities that allow guests to work on their personal wellness, however they define it. In addition to being site based, Rose Houses reach out beyond their walls through 24 hour peer-operated warm lines and mobile peer services. Rose House services are designed to help individuals break the cycle of crisis and hospitalization and connect to natural supports in the community. The Rose House is a self-referral service where guests can access and register at each house 24 hours a day.

Website: www.rosehouserespite.org and www.projectstoempower.org (click the menu link for “Rose House”)
Cost per day: Free to those located in the counties we serve.

Contact Information:

Director of Diversion Services

Moira Dwyer
126 Innis Avenue
Poughkeepsie NY 12601

Phone: (845) 452-2728 Ext. 206
E-Mail: moirad@projectstoempower.org

Orange and Ulster Counties

Walden, NY
(845) 452-2728 Ext. 301
24 hours Warm Line, Self Referrals for Site Based Diversion/Crisis Respite, or mobile services.

Putnam County

Garrison, NY
(845) 452-2728 Ext. 401
24 hour Warm Line, Self Referrals for Site Based Diversion/Crisis Respite, or mobile services.

Warren and Washington Counties

Glens Falls, NY
(518) 502-1172
24 hour Warm Line, Self Referrals for Site Based Diversion/Crisis Respite, or mobile services.

Dutchess County

Hyde Park, NY
(845) 452- 2728 Ext. 450
24 hour Warm Line, Self Referrals for Site Based Diversion/Crisis Respite, or mobile services

SERVICES FOR THE UNDERSERVED CRISIS RESPITE CENTER

Website: https://sus.org/our-services/behavioral-health/ (Scroll down to Brooklyn Crisis Respite Center)
Location: Brooklyn, NY
Phone: 877-583-5336
Email: services@sus.org

The Brooklyn Crisis Respite Center is a hospital diversion residence in Brooklyn for people ages 18-65 who are experiencing a first-episode (i.e. within approximately one year of onset of symptoms) of a mental health challenge. The Respite Center provides temporary residential care for up to two weeks in a safe and supportive home-like environment. The program helps to prevent chronicity of mental illness and offers an innovative alternative to traditional emergency room and inpatient care. Stay and participation in activities is voluntary.

TRANSITIONAL SERVICES FOR NEW YORK CRISIS RESPITE CENTER – MIELE’S RESPITE

Website: https://www.tsiny.org/programs-services/mieles-respite/
Location: Queens Village, NY
Phone: (718) 464-0375
Email: info@tsiny.org

The program provides an alternative to hospitalization in a setting that is staffed by a mixture of peers and clinicians. The goal is to provide a calm, warm and safe environment that aims to assist in working toward personal recovery goals.

Services and Amenities Provided:

• Peer support
• Optional groups to fit your interests
• Recreation and socialization
• Private guest accommodations
• Access to Wi-Fi (laptops available upon request)
• Walking distance to Alley Pond Park
• Kitchen and dining area for daily meals
• Living room with cable television
• Access to community resources
• Stay is from 1 – 14 days
• Self-service laundry facility onsite
• Close to public transportation
• Guest rooms equipped with a telephone

North Carolina

BLAIR H. CLARK RESPITE CENTER

Website: https://sunriseinasheville.org/blair-h-clark-respite-center/
Location: Asheville, NC
Phone: 828-279-2847
Email: hale@sunriseinasheville.org

Our purpose is to offer respite to individuals in recovery who may be experiencing emotional distress, or need a break from their current circumstances. Our guests will receive 24/7 peer recovery support services, in a residential environment. Our goal is to connect recovery and the Asheville community.  All guests must be self-referred, over the age of 18, and able to take own medications. Guests must also be experiencing emotional distress or a need for additional support.

RETREAT AT THE PLAZA

Website: www.promiseresourcenetwork.org
Location: Charlotte, NC
Phone: 704-390-7716
Email: Respite@promiseresourcenetwork.org

The Retreat at the Plaza is a 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom Respite house with two community kitchens and two community living rooms located in the Plaza Midwood community of Charlotte, North Carolina. It is a FREE, compassionate, trauma-informed, and healing alternative to going to an emergency department, in-patient mental health services, and/or involuntary commitment. It is a non-forced, voluntary, non-locked, and home-like environment in the community. It was created by, for, and with survivors and thrivers who identified that a respite provides the option of using challenges as an opportunity to heal, grow, and find a personal pathway to wellness. The peer-run respite offers peer support 24/7 and opportunities for people to explore recovery throughout their stay, inspire hope, and promote wellness instead of illness. Up to 3 guests at a time can stay at the respite for up to 10 days and can maintain their connections to family, community, and continue to go to work and school. Outside, the respite space has gardens, water features, patios, and is located in the beautiful community of Plaza Midwood on the bus route. Inside, each guest has their own room with a small refrigerator and shared living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens and 2 bathrooms. If the guest desires, supports, connection to resources, activities such as yoga, meditation, bicycling, etc., are available. As survivors, we know personally and through the experience of others that recovery from labels of mental illness and substance use is a reality. We also understand the countless challenges and roadblocks that many individuals face on their recovery journey, and we know how many traditional systems, programs and policies were never designed for the reality of recovery. If you are experiencing emotional distress, a mental health crisis, or trauma and are looking for support, we invite you call our Respite line today [at (704) 390-7716] to connect with a Peer Support Specialist and explore what staying at the Respite might look like for you. We can also explore other options that might be helpful if you decide the Respite in not the right fit for you.

Ohio

FOUNDATIONS: A Place for Education and Recovery

Website: www.foundationscanton.org
Location: 800 Market Ave. N. Suite 1500, Canton, OH 44702
Phone: 330-454-2888
Email: Information@foundationscanton.org

Funded by the county mental health board, the Foundations program includes educational and support groups, trainings, and opportunities for volunteers to be part of the organization. People are referred to the program by their service provider and usually stay 3-7 days. Three respite bedrooms are available; guests in the respite choose what they need to do for their own support and recovery. Many people become volunteer peer workers after being released. Suicidal people are referred to a crisis center. This is a program that is 100% run by peers.

Pennsylvania

REFLECTIONS: Whole Life Recovery Community
A program of Recovery Partnership

Website: https://recoverypartnership.us/reflections
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Reflections.wholeliferecoverycommunity
Location: 1360 Main Street Hellertown, PA 18055
Contact: Donna Keutmann, CPRP
Phone: 610-861-2741
Fax: 610-861-2781
Email: RPpeerservices@gmail.com

Recovery Partnership opened the doors to Reflections in March, 2014 responding to the needs voiced within our local community. Reflections is for individuals who are experiencing distress and feel that they would benefit from connecting with others who have “been there”. We provide short-term 24 hour peer-to-peer support within a home-like environment. Reflections is pet-friendly and can have up to three guests at a time. We offer a non-medical, supportive approach where individuals find hope and healing. Our goal is to ease the feelings of panic, anger, powerlessness, and frustration through a common connection. This common connection offers a non-judgmental, trusting relationship within which individuals can explore new methods of dealing with personal triggers. We are centrally located within Northampton County, PA and accessible by public transportation.

THE FERNS PEER RESPITE

Location: King of Prussia, PA
Contact: Olivia Bruecks, CPS
Phone: 610-787-7363
Email: Obruecks@theferns.org

The Ferns Peer Respite is a community resource in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, that values the unique experience and healing process of each individual. The Peer Respite is a voluntary, short-term, 24/7 model that provides a welcoming environment for people experiencing distress in their lives that recognizes each individual as the expert on themself while also providing time, space, and connections that support their self-determination, healing, and growth. Peer Respite is a different and proven alternative to psychiatric hospitalization or crisis residential services. This transformative model views emotional distress as a common human experience through which guests can find meaning and growth as part of a healing community.   Peer Respite is provided in a comfortable, home-like, non-institutional atmosphere. The Ferns Peer Respite will have three private guestrooms for adults over the age of 18. The property will include space for the team and guests to interact both inside and outside. There is space for mediation and yoga, a beautiful kitchen for cooking, space for arts and crafts and a private back yard for gardening. There is also an office room and group discussion room to be used as the guests and staff see fit. All team members, including management, will identify as having personal experience with emotional distress and other significant life challenges, and will share some of that experience with others as a part of their work. All staff will be trained in Intentional Peer Support (IPS), a trauma-informed peer support model used in settings around the world. Grounded in Intentional Peer Support (IPS), our peer-run respite will serve as a space for people to connect with each other during times of struggle in ways that honor suffering as a universal human experience and respect that people are experts on themselves.

Hopeworx, Inc. is the fiscal sponsor and parent organization for The Ferns Peer Respite Council. Hopeworx is a 501(c)3 non-profit peer-led organization based in Norristown, PA, and a recognized leader in delivering peer support services in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Hopeworx promotes the continued development of a community environment which supports and believes in the expertise and passion of individuals to create and direct their own paths to health and recovery.

Vermont

ALYSSUM, Inc.

Website: www.alyssum.org
Location: Rochester, Vermont
Contact: Gloria van den Berg
Phone: 802-767-6000
Email: information@alyssum.org

Open as of November 21, 2011, the mission of Alyssum is to provide a peer operated non-medical holistic approach to mental wellness and recovery for Vermonters who are experiencing emotional crisis. This alternative to psychiatric hospitalization provides a safe, mutually supportive, non-judgmental, educational and self-empowering environment. Alyssum affords individuals the opportunity to engage in the principles of wellness, recovery and peer support and to emerge from crisis with wisdom and the personal responsibility skills for living well.

Wisconsin

IRIS PLACE

Website: https://www.namifoxvalley.org/iris-place/
Location: Appleton, Wisconsin
Phone: 920-815-3217
Email: irisplace@namifoxvalley.org

As of its opening on April 13, 2015, Iris Place Peer Run Respite is delighted to live and share its mission of providing a home-like, safe, and welcoming environment for people who want and need peer support in order to navigate or avoid a crisis related to mental health and/or substance abuse. The staff of Iris Place (all of whom have lived experience) are proud and excited to be able to offer this new alternative to hospitalization. Iris Place is located in Appleton, Wisconsin (northeast region) and is free to all Wisconsin adult residents. We believe that healing happens in relationships, as well as that individuals are the experts of their own experiences, and we look forward to exploring unique pathways to recovery with our future guests!

MONARCH HOUSE PEER-RUN RESPITE

Website: www.milkweedalliance.org/monarch-house
Location: Menomonie, WI
Phone: 715-505-5641 (Respite and Warmline)
Email: info@milkweedalliance.org

Monarch House Peer Run Respite in Menomonie, WI, is a voluntary, non-medical, overnight program for people experiencing what is commonly referred to as crisis. Guests access peer run respite support through a self-referral process, which helps determine if an individual is a good fit for stay. While staying at the respite, guests may choose from a variety of self-directed healing modalities and may access peer support day and night. Monarch House also operates a warmline for over-the-phone peer support.  Monarch House Peer Run Respite is a collaboration between SOAR Case Management Services, Inc. and Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. It is free of charge for any Wisconsin resident aged 18+, and is funded by the State of Wisconsin Division of Care and Treatment Services.

SOLSTICE HOUSE PEER RUN RESPITE

Website: soarcms.org
Location: Madison, WI
Phone: 608-244-5077
Email: solsticehouse@soarcms.org

Solstice House is a short-term, supportive, home-like residential resource for individuals who are experiencing an increase in mental health and/or substance use symptoms, stressors, or are in need of support and services to aid in their recovery and wellness. Potential guests are individuals who want peer support and to proactively address any challenges they may be experiencing. It is a positive place for healing and growth, which promotes wellness, inspires hope and self-directed recovery. All staff identify as peers with lived experience of mental health and/or substance use and have been successful in their own recovery and are trained in the philosophy of “being with” rather than “trying to fix” people.