FIRST is a program for individuals who have just experienced a first episode of psychosis. It is designed to prevent needless suffering and waiting months or even years before being diagnosed and treated. It is critical to provide intensive intervention as soon as possible following a first episode of psychosis.

We Focus on Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders

The FIRST program is a collaboration between the Best Evidence in Schizophrenia Treatment (BeST) Center at Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED), CG&FS and Community Support Services, Inc. It is a comprehensive treatment program for individuals aged 15-40 who have had an initial episode of a schizophrenia spectrum disorder and reside in or near Summit County. Our FIRST program focuses on helping people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders improve their recovery and resiliency, reduce relapse rates and setting and achieve goals for the future.

What You Can Expect with FIRST

FIRST treatment services include psychiatric care, individual counseling, family psychoeducation, supported employment/education and support services provided in an integrated manner by a highly qualified team. 

FIRST program goals include: 

• Improving individual and family functioning 
• Reducing the chance of relapse 
• Improving the long-term course of the illness 
• Decreasing the overall cost of treatment on the mental health system 

For additional information about our FIRST program, email us at firstsc@cgfs.org.