Early treatment of psychosis leads to better outcomes. The National Institute of Mental Health’s RAISE research initiative found significant success using an evidence-based treatment model now called Coordinated Specialty Care or CSC.

Coordinated Specialty Care uses a team of health professionals and specialists who work with a person to create a treatment plan that is based on the person’s life goals. CSC encourages family involvement however family is defined.

Key Components of Coordinated Specialty Care include:

• Case management—works with the individual experiencing psychosis to develop problem-solving skills, manage medication and coordinate services 
• Family support and education—provides families information and skills to support an individual’s treatment and recovery
• Psychotherapy—focuses on resiliency, managing the condition, promoting wellness and developing coping skills
• Medication management—finds the best medication at the lowest possible dose through shared decision making
• Supported education and employment— provides support to continue or return to school or competitive work
• Peer support—connects the individual with others who have been through similar experiences