Early Psychosis Intervention (EPI) Program

Assessment and treatment of psychosis for people between 13 and 30 years old.

Psychosis is a condition that affects someone’s ability to determine what is real or not. Early diagnosis and treatment in psychosis is very important, do not be afraid to ask for help for yourself or for someone you know.

Our early psychosis intervention (EPI) team is a specialized health care service that provides the best assistance available to young people (13–30) who have recently developed psychosis. The team provides and coordinates all aspects of assessment and treatment based on the Ministry of Health’s Provincial Standards and Guidelines in Early Psychosis Intervention. This comprehensive and supportive service is provided in the community that the client and family live.

The EPI team includes a psychiatrist, a community clinician, and other team members that support recovery including: group and family therapist, substance use counsellor, occupational and/or vocational therapist, youth care worker, psychologist, educator, dietitian and others. Services offered include:

Medication and other symptom management strategies
Education about symptoms and treatments, delivered individually and in groups
Relapse prevention planning and strategies
Support, coping and stress management
Family education and support
Assistance with referring to other support needs such as education, work, housing substance/drug use

Get more details about the assessment and treatment process.

Access

Eligibility

Individuals who are between the ages of 13 and 30 and:

Have noticed some unusual changes in thinking, behaviour, social isolation, and/or feelings of suspiciousness, depression or anxiety.
Have a family history of psychotic disorder and are experiencing a recent decline in function at school, work or home.
If in doubt, call and ask at one of the program intake numbers below.

Referral

A referral can be made by anybody, including you, friends, family, schools, family doctor or hospital. You can simply call the direct intake number in the location nearest you. The EPI intake clinician will speak with you over the phone and together make a plan to have your concerns addressed.

Abbotsford, Agassiz, Chilliwack, Hope and Mission
Call 1-866-870-7847

Burnaby, Maple Ridge, New Westminster, Tri-Cities
Call 604-777-8386

Delta, Langley, Surrey, White Rock
Call 604-538-4278

EPI is not a crisis service (hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.) but we do work closely with the crisis services in the Fraser region.

Resources

Earlypsychosis.ca
Visit earlypsychosis.ca to find information on:
- Preparing for the initial assessment
- Psychosis information and resources for individuals and families
- Safety risks
- Emergency situations
- If treatment in hospital is needed
- How to help a friend or loved one
- How to cope as a caregiver or friend
- Diagnosis and associated issues
- Mental Health Act and Confidentiality information
- Dealing with Psychosis Toolkit and other useful downloads and apps