People with schizophrenia often wait months—years even—before they get a diagnosis and start treatment. At that point, they often find themselves in the hospital—with more likelihood of relapsing. Getting a diagnosis sooner, rather than later, can greatly reduce hospital stays and relapse rates, and improve treatment outcomes. FIRST uses both professionals and family members, as defined by the client, as their recovery team members.

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FIRST is a specialized treatment program for:

• People who are between the ages of 15 and 40.

• People who have had psychotic symptoms for no more than 18 months.

• People diagnosed with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, schizophreniform disorder or other specified/unspecified schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorder.

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FIRST aims to do several things.

• Provide support and education for the individual and their family.

• Improve their recovery.

• Reduce their chances of suffering a relapse.

• Help the individual set goals for the future.

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To use the FIRST program, an individual must agree to participate in at least two of the following treatment components:

• individual counseling

• psychiatric care

• supported employment/education

• family education

• case management

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FIRST services are available in Hamilton, Clermont and Butler Counties.  

To refer someone or learn more about FIRST, contact our FIRST Team Leader at (513) 354-7337.