Early Psychosis Intervention Program (MOD)

About The Program

The Early Psychosis Intervention Program (MOD) provides services to youth who are experiencing what may be the early signs and symptoms of psychosis. This recovery-focused program works to promote early identification and treatment of psychosis, along with minimizing the impact of the psychosis through community outreach and helping individuals achieve their goals at work, at school and within their social networks. 

Services include assessment, treatment, education, case management, support and referrals to other services in the community by a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, nurses, social workers and occupational therapists. In addition to therapeutic, peer and skills based groups, there are regular opportunities to connect socially with peers. The program also works closely with individuals’ families, providing them with education and supportive counselling.

CMHA Toronto’s MOD Early Psychosis Intervention Program is part of EPION (Early Psychosis Intervention Ontario Network) and TEIPN (Toronto Early Intervention in Psychosis Network). 

Who's It For

Individuals between the ages of 16 and 34 who are experiencing their first episode of psychosis.

How IT Works

  1. The client applies through The Access Point, an intake service that provides coordinated access for case management services in Toronto. Anyone can make a referral.
  2. If the client meets the criteria, an assessment is completed and the client is matched with a case manager.
  3. The case manager then meets with the client (and family members if consent is provided) and together, they identify goals and create a plan to advance recovery.
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who is the program for?

The program serves: 

  • Individuals between the ages of 16 and 34 who are experiencing their first episode of psychosis
  • Individuals who have not yet received treatment for psychosis, or who have had less than one year of treatment for psychosis from other mental health services

What areas does the program serve?

The program serves residents of the city of Toronto who are living between Victoria Park Avenue and Islington Avenue, and Steeles Avenue and Bloor Street.

Where are services offered?

Services are offered in the community, in clients’ homes or in CMHA Toronto offices.

How long is the program?

Up to 3 years.

What happens when the program is done?

Your case manager will work with you and your family towards a discharge plan. Some of our service users go on to adult mental health services, and some continue being supported by their family doctor or nurse practitioner. Many of our service users are connected to community and other supports that can continue to support them after our program. 

How often do I meet with someone?

Case managers meet with clients 2–4 times a month, depending on the service users need and time in the program. Typically, you will meet with the case manager weekly to start and then less often as you move through the program. You will also have regular appointments with your psychiatrist and may also meet with a nurse, social worker or occupational therapist.

Do I have to join the program?

Our program is voluntary–you do not need to join the program. However, you may want to try it out and see if we can help you with some of your life goals. 

Do my parents have to be involved?

We will only share your information with those people you provide consent for, including your parents. We do find that it is helpful for most service users to have their family involved in some way and that it’s important for the service user to decide which information is shared with their family and how their family is involved. 

Where can I find more information on early psychosis intervention?

Visit help4psychosis.ca for helpful information and tools.

How do I access services?

You can apply through The Access Point, an intake service that provides coordinated access for case management services in Toronto. Anyone can make a referral. If you meet the criteria, an assessment will be completed and you will be matched with a case manager. When you (and your family if you provide consent) meet with the case manager, you will work together to identify goals and create a plan to advance recovery. 

Contact Us

West Office
700 Lawrence Ave W,
Suite #480 Toronto,
ON M6A 3B4

East Office
1200 Markham Rd,
Suite #500 Scarborough,
ON M1H 3C3

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