A strong behavioral health system includes a range of supports designed to meet people where they are in their recovery journey. While some people may not need psychiatric hospitalization, they may still need a supportive environment with structure, care coordination and the opportunity to build the skills needed to thrive in the community.
Safe Landing, a Residential Care Facility (RCF) Class 1, was created to meet that need for adult women ages 18 and older living with serious and persistent mental illness. The facility provides a safe, supportive living environment with 24/7 supervision, helping residents connect with mental health care, strengthen independent living skills and transition to the appropriate level of care.
Owned and operated by North Community Counseling Centers (NCCC), Safe Landing began welcoming its first residents in January. The facility was made possible in part through support from the Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Board of Franklin County (ADAMH), which helped fund the purchase of the building and renovations. Ongoing services at Safe Landing are also supported through ADAMH funding.
“RCFs are typically just a place for individuals to live, but what makes Safe Landing unique is that it’s the only RCF Class 1 in Columbus that has a case manager, counselor and nurse all onsite to make those resources easily accessible for clients,” said Brianna Sanders, NCCC Marketing and Public Relations Coordinator.
A Place to Call Their Own
Safe Landing has the capacity to serve 16 residents at a time. Beds are occupied by women referred to the program primarily through Central Ohio Behavioral Healthcare, with additional referrals coming from Huckleberry House and Lutheran Social Services Faith Mission.
“Clientele ranges from women who just came from the hospital to others who have full-time jobs but need a place to live while they get back on their feet,” said Rebekah McCarty, NCCC Clinical Director. “Housing is a huge barrier right now and it’s going to continue to get worse, so I think knowing and having that safe place to come to is one less thing they have to worry about.”
For current resident Tatiana, Safe Landing is the first stable place she’s lived in for over six months. Before moving into the facility a month ago, Tatiana was navigating housing instability and moving between hotels.
“I was going through so much but since being here I’ve been able to relax and prioritize what I want to get done,” Tatiana said. “I’m not constantly on the go. I’m still moving fast and accomplishing a lot of things but it’s not as stressful and chaotic. When I’m here, I’m just at peace.”
Brianna and Rebekah shared that many of the women, including Tatiana, have taken pride in making Safe Landing home. By taking an active role in maintaining the space, preparing meals and caring for the environment they share, residents have developed a sense of ownership that helps build independence, confidence and the skills needed to work toward their goals.
“It’s a great house and everybody is so nice and respectful,” Tatiana said. “I’m still surprised I’m here, but I’m grateful that the staff here is willing to help me work toward my goals and take the steps I need to get myself back on track.”