OUR PEER RUN CRISIS RESPITE PROGRAM
ASCEND is a short-term Peer Run Crisis respite program that serves individuals aged 18 and older who are anticipating or experiencing a mental health challenge. We offer a voluntary, no-cost stay in a supportive, home-like environment designed to promote comfort, stability, and emotional safety.
ASCEND Peer Run Crisis Respite provides a unique and innovative alternative to traditional emergency room or inpatient care when emergency intervention is not deemed necessary. Guests can utilize Peer Run Crisis Respite in conjunction with standard treatment as a complementary service, receiving additional support for coping and recovery.
Our 24/7 support is provided by trained Peer Support Specialists and volunteers—all of whom have lived experience with mental health and/or substance use disorders—ensuring compassionate, relatable, and effective care.
Guidelines For Referrals
- The client referred must not be in a critical crisis. Example: Suicidal thoughts or behavior, Psychotic episodes, Domestic violence, or homelessness. Something that puts someone at immediate risk or emotional distress. A crisis can happen to anyone at any time.
- The client must be able to care for themselves physically.
- The client should be aware of the Respite Rules and be willing to respect them.
- The client should pack lightly and leave valuables like jewelry and money at home.
- The client must bring all medications in original containers, but only enough for 5 to 7 days.
- The client must be a resident of Stark County, 18 years of age or older, and have a current, permanent residence.
This is a voluntary program. WE ARE NOT A LOCKED-DOWN FACILITY!
Our Facilities
Here is what to bring with you during your stay at ASCEND.
- 3-7 days of comfortable clothing and some type of shoe, slippers, or flip-flops you would like to wear.
- Bring all of your belongings in a plastic bag only! No duffel bags or suitcases will be allowed. (Sorry for the inconvenience, bed bug prevention)
- We do provide you with three full meals and unlimited snacks, but you may bring food you love to eat, or if you have a special diet that requires specific food. i.e., Diabetics, gastric bypass; if you are unsure, please ask us. We do supply healthy food, and the staff have had diabetic training, so we can make sure you are getting what you need while you are resting.
- All medications and vitamins must be in their original containers. NO EXCEPTIONS! If special items are needed to ingest and monitor your medications, e.g., syringes, inhalers, and glucose testing kits, please bring them. This is for your safety and the safety of others. If you take medications, please know that we are not able to hold or handle them. We will provide you with a lockbox in your room to store your medications.
- If you wear contacts, please bring your case and solution. We do not have either.
- Bring any special shampoos, conditioners, soaps, toothpastes, and toothbrushes you prefer to use. We may not have what you want.
- You may bring a hairdryer and a curling iron if you choose. We do not provide these.
If you have any questions or concerns, please call us, and we can discuss them.
ASCEND wants you to enjoy your stay and get out of it what you need. To rejuvenate and educate, leave here stronger and healthier, and be able to cope with everyday stressors.
Our Goals
Respite is a peer-run crisis program that offers an alternative to unnecessary hospitalizations. We hope to prevent you (the Peer) from going down that path and needing further hospitalization. The average respite stay is three to seven days. Sometimes, we allow for an extended stay, but we generally like to get you back home as soon as you are ready.
How do you know if this program is right for you? You are likely going through a really tough time in your life. You may be experiencing new symptoms or side effects from a new medication. You may be grieving, lonely, or having thoughts or ideas that make you fearful. We are here to help. You can give us a call or visit us in person. No question is dumb when it comes to your well-being and the unknown. We want you to be comfortable.
One of our goals is to work with you and any other treatment team members involved to ensure continuity of care. We are NOT doctors, therapists, psychologists, or clinicians. We are peers like you, but we have both training and experience.
You may be a family member or close friend, wondering how you fit into the picture while your loved one is at ASCEND. You may want to stay in contact through telephone calls or even a personal visit. We encourage such contact, but please call ahead to arrange a time.
“The only journey is the one within” – Rainer Maria Rilke
If you are a provider for someone in respite and want to connect with your participant, please call and let us know you are coming. Phone: 330-454-2888 ext: 2
What Our Guests Are Saying About Us
Eric Williams – This was the most relaxing and layed back getaway I’ve had in over 10 years. The staff were extremely helpful and the service was great! I would highly recommend Ascend to anyone needing to get away from the issues of the everyday life. Thank you for everything!
Jorden Pearson – Ascend is a blessing for Canton Ohio. The staff and volunteers go above and beyond to make you comfortable, and help you in whatever ways they can. This is alternative to something like the Crisis Center. Here, you get to relax, talk to people, go to group classes (various group meetings that help you talk out what you’re going through, or think about it in a new light. Tips, tricks, and community). If you’re not at risk of harming yourself or others and you don’t need immediate meds, but you need a mental health break, I highly recommend Ascend! I ran into a bunch of bumps with my personal life and the staff was very patient with me during a very very difficult time. I left with a list of books to read, many notes, knowledge about community resources, and they even were able to point me in the right direction for a new psych dr/ therapist. THANK YOU EVERYBODY!!
Tessa Feit – Ascend was just the break I needed! They made me feel so comfortable and welcomed in their facility and made me whole again. I would recommend this place to anyone out there struggling with their mental health to come and get a fresh perspective!
