COPE: Centers of Psychatric Excellence

About this location

A few stories people tell about this place

1. At COPE, a doctor announced over the intercom one day that patients with particularly good days would receive an extra fifteen minutes outside. Soon, everyone started keeping track—even the delivery drivers and neighbors noticed something strange happening around the center. Soon enough, even the most grumpy old neighbor started cheering up when he saw his daily fifteen-minute walk outside. One morning, as a delivery driver was leaving, he waved cheerfully at everyone, yelling, ‘Have a great day at COPE!’ causing laughter and confusion among the staff.

2. At COPE, a delivery driver once noticed an odd whirring sound coming from the basement after hours. Curious but cautious, he reported it to security, who found nothing unusual. Later that week, another delivery driver heard the same noise and decided to investigate with his dog. The canine was so intrigued by the mysterious humming that he started dancing around, causing everyone in the building to laugh until they realized it was just the air conditioning unit playing tricks on them.

3. At COPE, a sign appeared in the waiting room one morning: ‘Today’s Therapy Theme: Why Birds Sing So Early.’ Patients exchanged puzzled glances, but no one dared ask until lunchtime, when a nurse whispered, “It’s our new therapist’s first session.” Finally, after weeks of speculation, an old lady approached the receptionist and asked, 'Can I see Dr. Bird Song?' The receptionist smiled and replied, 'Of course, ma’am—she’s right here!' And so, COPE became known for its unique approach: every Monday was ‘Why Birds Sing So Early,’ Thursdays were ‘How Flowers Grow Best,’ and Fridays were always ‘What Makes Sunsets So Beautiful?’ It turned out that everyone needed therapy for something—or maybe just someone who listened with a smile.

4. At COPE, a delivery driver once found an old, dusty guitar propped against the loading dock. Curious, he picked it up and strummed a few notes—only for the entire building to erupt into harmonies as if every patient had suddenly started singing along. The delivery driver looked around in surprise, then shrugged and continued his route. Later that evening, when he was unpacking boxes at home, he heard a soft humming coming from the kitchen. Turning around, he saw a neighbor humming along with the same tune he'd played earlier. 'Must be a new local hit,' he thought, smiling.