First-Episode & Early Psychosis FAQs

Q: Who is the First-episode and Early Psychosis Program (FEPP) for?

A: The First-episode and Early Psychosis Program (FEPP) is designed for people between the age of 14 and 40 who are either experiencing psychosis for the first time or who have been recently diagnosed with psychosis or schizophrenia. We believe good, quality treatment requires close contact between the patient, family and treatment team. For this reason, we can only offer treatment to patients in the greater Boston area.

Q: What does FEPP do?

A: Our aims are to aid patients with schizophrenia or psychosis by:

• Reducing delays in accessing appropriate treatment

• Facilitating comprehensive and rapid evaluation

• Providing evidence-based, phase-specific interventions for eligible patients

• Offering opportunities for research-based, enhanced clinical care

Q: How do I arrange an assessment with FEPP?

A: Call 617-643-1175. A staff member will contact you to get specific information which will help guide appropriate treatment or referral.

Q: What can I expect from FEPP?

A: You can expect to be treated with dignity, respect and care at all times by our expertly trained team. A member of the staff will promptly return your call and assess if our program is the right one for you or your family member’s needs. If it appears as though this might be the case, you will be offered our next available appointment for a comprehensive assessment.

Q: What are phase-specific interventions?

A: Research has shown that appropriate treatment delivered at the early stages of schizophrenia or psychosis has a huge impact on how well a person does in the long term. To that end, FEPP offers treatments such as medication, psychological therapy and family education directed towards this early phase of the illness.

Q: How long can I or my loved one be treated in FEPP?

A: We have the capacity to offer specialized treatment for two years in FEPP. After two years, we work with each patient on an individual basis to determine the best available treatment option.