Alta Receives Grant from OMHAS for Early Psychosis Treatment

The Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OMHAS) has awarded Alta Care Group $135,592 to support further development and operations for the Mahoning County FIRST Program (First Coordinated Specialty Care for First Episode of Psychosis).

In October, 2017 Alta Care Group and its Behavioral Health Division took over the operations of this program, which is designed to promote rapid access to the best treatment services for individuals experiencing an initial episode of psychotic illness and their families.

The new funding will allow Alta to expand the program, add a case manager, and incorporate trauma treatment and peer recovery support services. Alta partners with Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) and Compass Family and Community Services for ongoing training, consultation, and employment services associated with the program.

“Early treatment of psychosis can make a significant difference in helping people lead productive and successful lives while avoiding hospitalization where possible,” said Joe Shorokey, CEO of Alta Care Group. “We are grateful to OMHAS for their support of this important program.”

The Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board (MCMHRB) was instrumental in helping to fund the early stages of Alta’s new FIRST Program, as well as helping to secure the funding from OMHAS.

Duane Piccirilli, MCMHRB’s Executive Director, said “Our Board is so pleased with the FIRST Program’s growth and development under ALTA leadership. This team-based treatment will provide Mahoning County families with a comprehensive program of support and care in their community.”