Early Assessment and Support Alliance
Overview
Early Assessment and Support Alliance (EASA) is a statewide network of programs which identify youth with symptoms of psychosis as early as possible, and provide support and treatment based on current research. EASA is a transitional program, serving people for approximately two years. The program continues to evolve based on feedback, experience and availability of new methods. For example, EASA is now integrated in methodology from evidence-based “toolkits” developed by the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA). Toolkits being implemented by EASA included multi-family groups, illness management and recovery dual diagnosis treatment (chemical dependency and psychosis), and supported employment.
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EASA works closely with family members and others who are supportive of the individual to help them succeed. This program is for young adults who are at risk for developing symptoms of psychosis (those who meet criteria for psychosis risk syndrome, also known as clinical high risk) and those who meet criteria for schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder with psychosis. Acute symptoms of psychosis include hallucinations (seeing and hearing things others don’t), delusions (bizarre, out-of-character, fixed beliefs); and disturbances to speech, emotional expression, and movement. Onset of these symptoms usually occurs gradually.
Services Offered by EASA
EASA Clinical Teams provide the following services:
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Outreach and engagement
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Assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning by mental health professionals specifically trained in early psychosis work
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Education and support for individuals and families/primary support systems
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Crisis and relapse planning
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Assistance with knowing rights and available benefits
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Goal setting and planning
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Mentoring and opportunities to meet others
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Independent living skill development
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Occupational therapy
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Resource brokering and advocacy
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Support for vocational and educational settings
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Group and individual counseling
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Medication support
Who Does EASA Serve?
EASA helps identify and support young people whose symptoms are consistent with the onset of a psychotic illness such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder with psychosis. EASA also helps clarify diagnosis and appropriate treatment, and supports referents in linking to appropriate care. Acute symptoms of psychosis include hallucinations (seeing and hearing things others don’t); delusions (bizarre, out-of-character, fixed beliefs); and disturbances to speech,emotional expression, and movement. Onset of these symptoms usually occurs gradually.
Other referral guidelines:
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Age 15-25
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No more than 12 months since diagnosed with a major psychotic disorder, if applicable
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Lives in local region
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Symptoms not known to be caused by a medical condition or drug use
Contact
Resources
The official EASA website with resources for families, allies, young adults, and professionals.