NYC Supportive Transition and Recovery Team (NYC START)
The NYC Supportive Transition and Recovery Team (NYC Start) is a free service for young adults hospitalized for a first episode of psychosis.
Program Services
During hospitalization and for the first three months after hospital discharge, trained social workers and peer specialists use a Critical Time Intervention case management model and “shared decision-making” approach. This strategy can improve linkage to care, connect patients to recovery-oriented services and support the transition back to the community.
Eligibility
NYC START serves New Yorkers between ages 16 and 30 who have been hospitalized for a first episode of psychosis.
Psychosis diagnosis is limited to:
- Schizophrenia (any type)
- Psychosis not otherwise specified
- Schizophreniform disorder
- Delusional disorder
- Schizoaffective disorder
- Brief psychotic disorder
- Shared psychotic disorder
- Other specified schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorder
- Unspecified schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorder
Referring Patients to NYC START
Within 24 hours of diagnosis, all New York City hospitals must report admission of people meeting the above eligibility requirements to the Health Department. Secure and confidential reports can be made electronically through NYCMED.
Upon receipt of the electronic report, NYC START staff will contact the hospital to provide information on how the program can be offered to eligible patients. Participation is voluntary and free.
For more information about NYC START services, including how to refer eligible patients, call 718-786-4777 or email nycstart@health.nyc.gov.
Additional Resources
- NYC START Brochure (PDF)
Other Languages: Español - NYC START Brochure (printable) (PDF)
- NYC START Flyer (PDF)