NAVIGATE Program Directors' perspectives on treatment for early psychosis

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Mental Health
• Early Intervention Services
• Psychosis Treatment

Background:

• The Recovery After Initial Schizophrenia Episode-Early Treatment Program (RAISE-ETP) results in 2015 led to increased federal funding for early intervention programs nationwide.
• Early intervention in psychosis is recognized as critical for improving long-term outcomes in individuals experiencing their first episode of psychosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the real-world experiences of NAVIGATE Program Directors regarding patient identification, recruitment, and family engagement in early psychosis treatment.
• To understand the practical challenges and successes in implementing the NAVIGATE model across diverse early psychosis programs.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods sequential explanatory design was employed.
• Surveys were administered to 32 NAVIGATE program directors across 13 states.
• Follow-up interviews were conducted with 22 program directors to gain deeper insights.

Main Results:

• Program directors reported difficulties in accurately diagnosing individuals with early psychosis upon admission.
• Supporting families of individuals experiencing psychosis emerged as a critical program component with significant complexity.
• The practical application of the NAVIGATE model presented unique challenges in real-world settings.

Conclusions:

• Findings highlight the need for improved diagnostic tools and training for early psychosis identification within intervention programs.
• Enhanced strategies are required to effectively support families navigating the complexities of psychosis.
• This study informs future research and development of early intervention mental health programs for psychosis recovery.