For immediate attention
If you or someone you know needs immediate attention, please call 9-1-1
FAQs
- Who qualifies for the STEP Learning Collaborative
- Individuals must be between the ages of 16 and 35
- Individuals must have recently experienced psychosis symptoms or episodes of psychosis
- Individuals seeking treatment must live within the state of Connecticut
All insurance statuses are accepted.
- If you are unsure if you qualify, feel free to give us a call
- If an individual is experiencing psychosis but lives outside of Connecticut and age range, please know that help is still available. Use the SAMHSA Treatment Locator to find an early intervention service.
- What happens when I make a referral?
- Callers will be asked for basic information on a secure line or confidential online form. Expect a call back shortly after from an Early Detection and Assessment Coordinator (EDAC) who will screen for symptoms of psychosis and provide immediate referrals to those eligible and in need of care.
- Based on your town/city of residence, you will be directed to a STEP Learning Collaborative provider near you. Once you’re connected to care you will work with your treatment provider to figure out which elements of care will be helpful for you.
- Who can make a referral?
Anyone who is concerned about a young person who may be experiencing symptoms of psychosis. This includes:
- Individual who are experiencing symptoms themselves
- Friends and family
- Healthcare providers
- Mental Health Providers
- Emergency care providers and crisis responders
- Law enforcement
- Teachers, coaches, clergy
- Community members
- Anyone else who interacts with young people regularly
As trusted members of the community, you can make a difference to those unsure of what to do. Open, welcoming, and compassionate attitudes encourage people who are affected not to suffer in silence
How our EDACs can Assist You in Referrals to Care
Overcoming Obstacles
People generally wait longer than they need to before getting help. Even when they are aware an individual is experiencing symptoms of psychosis and in need of help, some barriers can prevent them from getting that help.
Stigma
Unfortunately, stigma often surrounds mental health conditions, including psychosis, leading individuals to feel isolated or reluctant to seek the care they need. However, reaching out for support is a courageous step toward healing and recovery.
Denial
While trying to address an episode of psychosis, family members or support people may prefer to operate as though no problem exists. The STEP Learning Collaborative offers tools and suggestions to help.
Confusion
It can be challenging to distinguish between psychosis and other mental health or behavioral concerns, particularly since many symptoms emerge during the transitional period of adolescence, when individuals are already navigating the complexities of growing up. There may be days when everything seems fine, or changing symptoms can leave individuals feeling uncertain. The STEP Learning Collaborative is available to provide guidance and clarity in these unique situations. Even if it’s unclear whether psychosis is the underlying issue or if the symptoms don’t seem severe enough, there is no downside to reaching out to explore the concerns. The STEP Learning Collaborative is here to help. Anyone can call 203-200-0140 or complete the referral form to get started.
Having to Wait for an Appointment
Sometimes, obstacles lie within the healthcare system itself. The STEP Learning Collaborative aims to deliver safe, timely, and effective pathways to and through care for every young person experiencing first episode psychosis in Connecticut.