Building on Family Strengths: Support,
Education and Advocacy

MTHSS and the Best Practices in Schizophrenia Treatment Center at Northeast Ohio Medical University jointly provide Building on Family Strengths: Support, Education and Advocacy (BOFS:SEA) services that support the recovery of individuals affected by schizophrenia spectrum disorders and their families. “Family” may be a blood relative, significant other, neighbor, friend, or other support person. Services provided include information and referral, Consumer Centered Family Consultation, Behavioral Family Therapy and Family to Family Preview. A one hour and a half presentation, Family-to-Family Preview provides an opportunity to meet other individuals and families affected by mental illness and to learn about community resources. Family-to-Family is a free educational program for family members taught by peers who are themselves trained family members. Consumer Centered Family Consultation and Behavioral Family Therapy are more detailed programs and services. Case managers and other staff help family members select services based on needs and preferences.