After witnessing countless individuals struggle with the transition from mental health treatment back to everyday life, Jacqui Coates-Colón has established a groundbreaking supportive living program that addresses a critical gap in mental health care. The co-founder and CEO of Premier Wellness of South Florida recognized that many people face overwhelming challenges when leaving treatment facilities, often finding themselves isolated and without the resources needed to maintain their recovery progress.
With over 13 years of experience in the mental health sector, Coates-Colón’s journey began at a treatment center in Lantana, Florida, where she worked with adults and adolescents facing persistent mental health conditions. Her career trajectory took her from Clinical Case Manager to Director of Alumni & Family Services, and eventually to Director of Admissions and Outreach Manager. This extensive background provided her with firsthand insight into the struggles individuals face after completing initial treatment programs.
The turning point came during her time with the Clinical Outreach Team at a psychiatric hospital in South Florida, where she observed the urgent need for continuity of care. This experience ignited her passion for creating lasting change and reducing recidivism rates among those living with mental health conditions. The result is Premier Wellness of South Florida, a network of supportive living homes that provide nurturing environments for individuals navigating mental health challenges.
The program offers comprehensive support including 24/7 direct support staff, individualized case management, and life skills training. Unlike traditional treatment facilities, this approach focuses on empowering residents to integrate the tools they’ve acquired during prior treatment into their daily lives. The emphasis is on creating a supportive atmosphere where individuals feel safe to continue their healing journey while developing greater independence.
Central to the program’s philosophy is the belief that mental wellness thrives when individuals feel valued and supported. Each resident receives personalized guidance and resources tailored to their unique needs, ensuring they have both the support and accountability necessary to move forward positively. The program helps residents engage in group activities, develop practical life skills, find employment, enroll in educational programs, pursue volunteer opportunities, and work toward other individualized goals.
The supportive living community operates on a foundation of understanding and non-judgment, actively working to break down the stigma surrounding mental health. By fostering an environment where individuals can share their experiences openly without fear of judgment, the program creates a safe space for authentic growth and mutual support among residents.
As a Certified Well-Being Ambassador, Mental Health Advocate, and Certified Life & Recovery Coach, Coates-Colón brings a unique combination of professional expertise and personal commitment to her work. Her mission extends beyond providing housing and services; she aims to help individuals build self-esteem, establish meaningful connections, maintain stability, accomplish their goals, and discover their purpose in life.
The program’s motto, “In This Together,” reflects its collaborative approach to mental health support. By cultivating a space where self-worth flourishes and belonging is established, Premier Wellness of South Florida encourages each person to approach their wellness journey with hope and integrity. This innovative model represents a significant advancement in how communities can support individuals with mental health challenges beyond the initial treatment phase.
The establishment of these supportive living homes addresses a long-standing gap in mental health care infrastructure, providing a bridge between intensive treatment and independent living. Through this pioneering approach, Coates-Colón and her team are demonstrating that with the right support system, individuals facing mental health challenges can successfully reintegrate into their communities while maintaining their wellness and pursuing meaningful lives.