Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI) Program

The Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI) Program supports recovery through early assessment and the development of a comprehensive treatment plan that is patient‑ and family‑centered and recovery‑focused, aiming to improve daily functioning and overall health and wellness. We also provide education and support to family members of patients receiving our services. 

The EPI Program builds on Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) and the NAVIGATE program to offer a standardized model of care for delivering early psychosis recovery treatment in Ontario.

CSC Guiding Principles are: 
• Rapid and early client and family engagement
• Client-centred care
• Recovery focus
• Systematic delivery to all clients
• Intensive level of support
• Integrated team-based care

NAVIGATE is an evidenced based treatment program that focuses on recovery for youth and emerging adults with a first episode of psychosis. This model will define the foundational components of the provincial EPI program, which include:

1. Individualized Medication Treatment
2. Family Education
3. Individualized Resiliency Training
4. Supported Employment and Education
5. Peer Support (where available)

The EPI program is delivered by a multidisciplinary team consisting of a combination of roles that may include: an Individual Resiliency Training Clinician (IRT)-Nurse-Case Manager, a Psychiatrist, a Supported Employment and Education Specialist (SEE), and a Family Educator/Clinician Support (FEC) Worker and whenever possible a Peer Support Specialist.

Based on research in first‑episode psychosis and the Ontario Early Psychosis guidelines, we provide comprehensive intensive services for up to 3 years. 

Roles on the Team:

Individual Resiliency Trainer (IRT) Clinician / Nurse/ Case Manager 
IRT clinicians aim to help clients achieve their personal goals by teaching them about their disorder and its treatment. It helps clients process their experience of psychosis, reduce self‑stigmatizing beliefs, and learn social resiliency skills. IRT includes components of various evidence‑based psychotherapies, including CBT and motivational enhancement. Case Management supports are also available and IRT/Case Managers may also be a Nurse.

Supported Employment and Education (SEE) Specialist
SEE staff help clients by providing support for education and employment goals related to their academic and career interests. Specialists work with clients to help them obtain jobs or enroll in educational programs and provide ongoing support for any of their meaningful activity goals. 

Family Education Clinician (FEC)
FEC aim to provide education to families about psychosis and its treatment. The Family Clinician works to reduce the family’s emotional strain related to the illness and to help build on the family’s strengths to create and maintain an environment that supports the client’s recovery.

Psychiatrist/Prescriber
Provides comprehensive assessments, individualized medication plans, treatment, and wellness monitoring, as well as consultation with the team.

*Peer Support Specialist (some teams may have this role/supports available)

Who is EPI for?

Individuals must have less than 3 years of prior EPI treatment, and less than 5 years since an initial diagnosis of a psychotic illness. As well, developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, or substance use diagnoses’ do not exclude participation in the program if the individual can engage in some program components. However, some referrals may be redirected if there is another service that will better serve their needs. 

Exclusionary criteria include psychosis due to medical conditions, such as an acquired brain injury. 

Individuals must be aware of and agreeable to, an EPI assessment and participation in a program where a team of professionals works together to support and guide their care.

How to Access

Download referral form here. Please fax completed referrals to 866-447-7761 or call 519-255-9940 ext 249 for more information.