Services offered at the First Episode Assessment Clinic (FACT) Peel are designed to meet the needs of young people experiencing a first episode of psychosis. This clinic assists individuals and their families with the initial period of recovery and adjustment and as a result, is time limited for up to three years. This interdisciplinary team offers services that are tailored to meet the needs of each individual. Services may include assessment and monitoring of symptoms, education about psychosis, emotional support to aid in the recovery process, medication management, and help getting access to other services such as employment, education, finances and housing.

Our goal is to identify and treat early signs of psychosis as soon as possible.

Psychosis happens when a person loses contact with reality and cannot tell the difference between what is real and what is not. Psychosis usually appears in a person's late teens or early twenties. About three out of every 100 people will have a psychotic episode in their lifetimes. Psychosis is treatable.

Mental and emotional problems are often like physical problems; the sooner they are treated, the better. In the past it was common to delay active treatment until clear signs of psychosis appeared. However, the longer an illness is left untreated, the greater the disruption to the person's ability to study, work, make friends and interact comfortably with others.

The people we help are young people who become distressed by changes in their thoughts, perceptions, and feelings. These changes may be difficult to describe to others and often become a source of concern for young people and their families.

Referral Required: Yes. Self referrals are welcome. See related links box for referral form.

Contact: (416) 535-8501, ext. 6528 or 6496 (Schizophrenia Intake Coordinator)

Contact: Fax: (416) 260-4197

Contact: FACT PEEL Clinic: 416-535-8501, ext. 77700

Location: 30 Eglinton Ave. West, Suite 801, Mississauga