The TIPS family psychoeducational group work approach in first episode psychosis and related disorders: 25 years of experiences

The aim of this paper is to present 25 years of clinical experience with family psychoeducation (FPE) work at Stavanger University Hospital in Norway, highlighting the lessons learned in overcoming implementation barriers in publicly funded specialized mental health care. This retrospective analysis reviews the integration and sustainability of FPE work within the hospital's standard treatment protocols for psychosis, tracing its origins from the Early Treatment and Intervention in Psychosis (TIPS) study (1997-2000) to its current application. The paper examines key strategies for successful implementation, including staff training and resource allocation, as emphasized by international research. Stavanger University Hospital has successfully implemented and maintained both multi- and single-family FPE approaches over the past 25 years. Initially part of the TIPS study, FPE has been integrated into routine clinical practice for treating psychosis and has recently been extended to families of patients with other severe mental disorders. The sustained success at Stavanger University Hospital is attributed to consistent staff training and the prioritization of sufficient resource allocation. The successful and sustainable integration of FPE at Stavanger University Hospital is relatively unique. International guidelines recommend FPE for psychosis, but its implementation remains inconsistent globally, despite over 50 years of supporting evidence. The hospital's experience underscores the critical role of continuous training and dedicated resources in embedding FPE into regular clinical practice. These findings suggest that addressing these areas can significantly enhance the uptake of FPE in other clinical settings. The 25-year experience at Stavanger University Hospital demonstrates that with appropriate training and resources, FPE can be successfully integrated and sustained within standard mental health care practices. This case study provides valuable insights for other institutions aiming to implement FPE and improve treatment outcomes for patients with severe mental disorders.