Early Assessment and Support Alliance (EASA)

Early Assessment and Support Alliance (EASA) is a FREE program that serves young people (ages 15-25) who have had a first episode of psychosis within the last 12 months or who are experiencing early at-risk symptoms for psychosis. EASA also works with families, community partners and natural supports.

The goal of EASA is to identify individuals with new psychosis as soon as possible in order to minimize the negative impact on their lives. Members of the EASA team help assess and identify teenagers and young adults who are experiencing the early signs of psychosis.

WHAT IS PSYCHOSIS?

“Psychosis" is a broad term that covers many different symptoms and experiences.

EASA aims to serve individuals experiencing psychosis that is caused primarily by a mental health condition, and not psychosis that stems from substance abuse, trauma, medical conditions or traumatic brain injury.

WHO EXPERIENCES PSYCHOSIS?

Anyone can develop psychosis.
Many people see or hear things that others don't, or have ideas that are unusual.
Psychosis is only a problem when it is causing you or someone close to you significant distress or harm.

It affects 3 in 100 people, and occurs for the first time in adolescence and early adulthood.

It can be caused by a variety of medical illnesses, sleep deprivation, severe stress or trauma, drug reactions, genetic predisposition, and other factors

WHAT IS EASA?

The Early Assessment and Support Alliance (EASA) is a network of programs and individuals across Oregon who are focused on providing rapid identification, support, assessment and treatment for teenagers and young adults who are experiencing the early signs of psychosis.

EASA is designed as a transitional program, with the goal of providing the education and resources the person needs to be successful in the long-term. Individuals who meet criteria can participate in EASA for about two years, although that time frame varies depending on the individual.

For individuals enrolled in EASA, our multi-disciplinary team will provide support and treatment through the following services:

Outreach and engagement
Assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning by mental health professionals specifically trained in early psychosis work
Education and support for individuals and families/primary support systems
Goal setting and planning
Counseling
Relapse prevention planning
Medication Management
Mentoring and opportunities to meet others
Independent living skill development
Assistance with knowing one’s rights and available benefits
Resource brokering and advocacy
Support for vocational and educational settings

EASA Referral Process

Please Call our Benton County EASA referral line at 541-766-0108.

If this is a mental health crisis, please call our 24/7 Benton County Crisis Hotline at 1-888-232-7192
or Text OREGON to 741741

Early Assessment and Support Alliance (EASA)