EPICenter: Early Psychosis Intervention Center

Call 520-694-1234 x7 for an appointment.

EPICenter is a community mental health program offering specialized treatment for persons early in the course of a psychotic illness, such as Psychosis NOS, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective, and Bipolar Disorder with Psychotic Features. Signs of these illnesses can include trouble with reality testing, paranoia, hallucinations, delusions, disorganization, odd behavior or thinking, isolating emotional changes, and difficulty with work or school. Our mission is to support our members, reduce the impact of early psychosis through symptom alleviation, and reintegration into their community. At EPICenter our members and their family have the opportunity to discuss their concerns, receive evidence-based specific treatment, get help with educational and professional goals, and be part of a supportive community.  


New Groups at EPICenter:

Living with Pride

  • The LGBTQ+ Therapy "Living with Pride" group provides a safe, confidential space for EPICenter and WHC members to express themselves & connect with other LGBTQ+ folx while building identity resilience and transferable life skills delivered in a therapeutic setting. Colin Tidwell, MA will facilitate the group and is open to both EPICenter and WHC members 18-35 years old.
  • In Person | Mondays 5 - 6 p.m. | Starts Feb 12,2024

EPICenter at the Park!

  • Join Andrew and Catalina last Wednesday of each month for a fun afternoon of walking, games, and connecting at the park. Bring your comfortable shoes and be ready to enjoy the afternoon.
  • Meet at WHC lobby | Last Wednesday of every month at 4 p.m. | Will return at 6 p.m.

Communication  Techniques for Parents

  • Join Dr. Toby Sanchez to learn effective easy to use MI communication skills. This training will take place during our February Multi-Family-Group
  • In Person at WHC | Feb 1  and Feb 15, 5:00 to 6:15 p.m.

Watch our education videos here. 


How EPICenter Can Help

As with physical illness, treatment early in the course of mental illness, such as psychosis, can lead to better outcomes. The longer the illness is left untreated, the greater the disruption to the person's ability to meet the demands of transition into adulthood: school, work, meeting new people, and becoming independent. Our services are comprehensive, bilingual, and covered by insurance.

Services

  • Clinical Evaluations & Assessments
  • Family Education & Support
  • Cognitive Behavioral, Individual & Group, Therapy
  • Medication Management
  • Cognitive Remediation
  • Supported Employment & Education
  • Community Education & Training

Who We Work With

Individuals ages 15-35 who are early in the course of a psychotic illness and are willing to travel to EPICenter for clinical services are eligible to participate. Additionally, individuals must have a family member who is willing to participate in the family education and support program. During COVID-19, most of our services are provided via telehealth. 

Benefits of Phase-Specific Care

The goal of specialized, phase-specific care is to maximize engagement and shorten the period of untreated psychosis. By tailoring the interventions to this age group, we hope to facilitate greater community reintegration and return of previous functioning.

Click here for insurance coverage information.

Contact Us


Susan M Thomas CRSS, BHT
For more information about the program and intake referrals, contact Susan at:
520-694-1768, Susan.Thomas1@bannerhealth.com

 

Banner - University Medicine Whole Health Clinic
535 N. Wilmot Rd. Suite 201, Tucson, AZ 85711
520-694-1234 x7