[Tiger11]

What will the psychotherapy goals be for a newly diagnosed 25 yr old male schizophrenia. He has an excellent family support structure with whom he lives. Only major symptom auditory hallucinations (commenting voices)
and some social anxiety. Has friends and dates and is an A student in engineering graduate school. The voices are fairly regular. Treatment will start next week and will probably be Abilify. How can the family help?
Can the family augment the psychotherapy? Any experience with purchasing Abilify offshore and splitting to save money or other ideas?

[chaotic13]

Tiger, I don't have any insight to provide with regards to schizophrenia. I just wanted to say that your being open and willing to support him sounds like your off to a good start. I hope you have compiled a good team of professionals to provide you with the guidence you need.

[MissCharlotte]

Hi Tiger,
My son was also dx with schizophrenia at age 24. I communicate frequently with his psychiatrist but do not talk with his psychotherapist as often. In the beginning though I would call her if I felt she needed to know something. His medications are paid for through medicaid. Can you get your son on disability? My is just now thinking of going back to grad school as he was not able to continue at the time he first got very sick. I think the family can help by being as supportive as possible and a reminder of reality. Also, the family provides context of normalcy and grounding. I recommend a therapist for you because you need support too. Also, the NAMI website is helpful. You have a long road ahead; pm me if you want.