Waterford Hospital
306 Waterford Bridge Road
St. John’s, NL
A1E 4J8
Tel: (709) 777-3614 Fax: (709) 777-3553
Mandate:
The PIER Program is a service provided by the Mental Health and Addictions Program. It is a specialized mental health program focused on recognition, assessment and treatment of individuals experiencing a first episode of psychosis. It consists of an interdisciplinary team servicing these individuals and their families with clinical care, education and support.
Target Population:
Individuals 16-55 who are experiencing psychotic symptoms for the first time or being treated with an antipsychotic medication for a period not exceeding 6 months
Highlight of Programs / Services Offered:
- Clinical Care:
- Comprehensive psychiatric assessment, treatment and follow up
- Case Management services which provide psychosocial interventions and education to the individuals experiencing a psychosis
- Family assessments, biopsychosocial interventions and educational support
- Occupational Therapy assessments and interventions including life, work, vocational and cognitive skills
- Employment Support Specialist services
- Neuropsychological testing services
- Referrals can be made by anyone using the Mental Health and Addictions referral form or by telephone
- Appointments for assessments can be obtained within 1-14 days
- Education and Research:
- Education about psychosis is provided to individuals and their families by various team members in individual and group sessions.
- Information on awareness, early recognition of psychosis and program services provided to educators, health professionals and community.
- Research efforts are aimed at enhancing knowledge about psychosis and development of improved treatments.