Valley nonprofit behavioral health agency expanding its reach
Oct 2, 2018, 4:55 AM | Updated: 5:36 am
(Google Maps photo)
(Google Maps photo)
PHOENIX — A leading behavioral health nonprofit in Phoenix is expanding its treatment programs.
PSA Behavioral Health Agency has reached an agreement to purchase the Epicenter clinic from the Institute for Mental Health Research (IMHR).
The Epicenter – Early Psychosis Intervention Center – is located near McDowell Road and 1st Street in downtown Phoenix and provides early-intervention programs for individuals who have psychosis symptoms.
“We really needed a broader and a more sustainable plan,” said Letitia LeBrecque, site director for Epicenter. “Therefore, becoming a part of the PSA Behavioral Health family was crucial.
“What we bring to the PSA table is the specialization of early-psychosis treatment,” she said. “That is something that is not often an option for individuals or families.”
The Epicenter approach to treating these individuals is to identify the signs of psychosis early and focus on interventions that are effective and require the least amount of medication possible.
The goal is mitigating the long-lasting impact that psychotic disorders can have throughout the lifespan.
Sara Mariott, PSA’s CEO, said this is a win-win for everyone.
“The Epicenter’s participants will have access to more robust mental and physical health services through PSA, such as the nationally-recognized art therapy and therapeutic arts program,” she said. “PSA participants will benefit from the work that’s been done in Epicenter.”
