Support for Families

IN THIS SECTION

Families are a vital part of the recovery journey.

When a young person is experiencing early psychosis, the people around them — parents, partners, siblings, and other supports — are going through something too. PIER offers dedicated support for families, not as an afterthought, but as a central part of how we work.

There are two ways PIER supports families. Both are voluntary, flexible, and designed to meet families where they are.

Multifamily Group

A structured group where participants and their families meet every two weeks alongside other PIER families and clinicians. Through shared learning and discussion, families gain a deeper understanding of early psychosis and build practical skills for navigating it together.

Meets every two weeks for 90 minutes
Includes participants and their chosen supports
Led by two PIER clinicians
Focuses on communication, problem-solving, and recovery

Learn about Multifamily Group

Family Peer Support

A one-on-one relationship between a family member and a Family Peer Support Specialist, someone who has their own experience supporting a loved one through mental health challenges. It is a different kind of support, built on shared experience rather than clinical expertise.

One on one with a Family Peer Support Specialist
Flexible in format, frequency, and focus
Peer-led, not clinical
Available to family members independent of the participant

Learn about Family Peer Support