Specialized Treatment Early in Psychosis (STEP)

STEP is a collaborative program of the Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services and Yale University Department of Psychiatry. It is based at Connecticut Mental Health Center.

STEP is a clinic staffed by mental health providers in different fields – psychology, psychiatry, nursing, and social work. This "interdisciplinary" team seeks to provide comprehensive care for individuals who are early in the course of a psychotic illness in order to prevent symptoms from becoming disabling.

Treatment at STEP starts with thorough assessment in order to gain the best understanding of what may be causing the person's difficulties. Based upon individual needs and preferences, treatment may include medication management, community coaching (e.g. support in getting back to school or work), individual and group therapy, as well as support and education for family members and friends.

Our goal is to work with patients and their families to improve functioning, reduce stress, and minimize symptoms to facilitate independence and life satisfaction. Early intervention maximizes the chances of returning individuals to their desired goals—whether a job, school, or valued roles in their family or community.