Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Service (EPPIS)

EPPIS is an early intervention service for adolescents and young adults experiencing a first episode of psychosis. Services are provided by a community-based multidisciplinary team (nurses, social workers, occupational therapist, psychologist and psychiatrists). EPPIS is a modified assertive case management model that provides early identification, prompt assessment and comprehensive, phase-specific psychiatric treatment and psychosocial intervention. The intensity of the treatment is guided by the client and family needs and preferences in the least restrictive environment possible.

One of the most important ways to improve outcomes in psychosis is to initiate treatment early. Research indicates that individuals receiving optimal treatment within 6 months of onset of symptoms have a better recovery than those who delay treatment. For this reason EPPIS does not have a wait list and attempts to see individuals quickly after referral has been received so treatment can be optimized early in the course.

Current treatments can be very effective and many individuals recover from a first episode of psychosis. The earlier the disorder is treated, the greater the chance of a successful recovery. Other benefits to early intervention for psychosis include reduced symptoms and distress, preservation of psychosocial skills, preservation of family and social supports, decreased need for hospitalization, more rapid recovery and over all improved prognosis.

When should a referral to EPPIS be considered?

• If an individual has been showing signs of psychosis, which may be accompanied by social withdrawal and out of the ordinary behavior.
• If the individual presents with deterioration of general functioning accompanied by oddities of thought, and there is a family history of a psychotic disorder.

Criteria for admission to EPPIS

• Presence of symptoms of psychosis (delusions, hallucinations and/or thought disorder) or a recent diagnosis of a primary psychotic disorder not related to substance use alone or other non-psychiatric medical condition
• The individual has not received treatment for a diagnosed psychotic disorder for longer than 3 months therefore still in the early intervention phase
• Ability to participate in treatment plan and service components (groups) within EPPIS
• Living within the Winnipeg region

Upon acceptance to EPPIS, the individual will work with a team to develop a treatment plan which may include: medication, group/family education sessions, group recreation, and individual/family supportive counseling. If EPPIS is not the appropriate program, alternate recommendations may be made if required.

How do I make a referral to EPPIS?

Anyone can make a referral to EPPIS.

If the individual is under 18, please contact Centralized Intake of the Child & Adolescent Mental Health Program for referral information requirements at:

Phone: 204-958-9660
Fax: 204-958-9626

Referrals for individuals age is 18 – 35, please contact the Community Mental Health Program EPPIS Service directly for specific on referral information requirements:

Phone: 204-940-8771
Fax: 204-940-2330

A clinician will contact the individual and/or referral source within 1 – 4 working days to discuss immediate concerns and arrange an appointment. This appointment is usually with a psychiatrist and clinician to assess the likelihood of a psychotic disorder and appropriateness of further EPPIS involvement.

For more information

If you have any further questions, call 204- 940-8771 and you will be connected with an EPPIS Mental Health Clinician.