EPI-FS Training

Learning to Use the Early Psychosis Intervention Services Fidelity Scales (EPI-FS)

June 11, 2026, 9am - 3:45pm
June 12, 2026, 9am - 3pm
Virtual via Zoom
Continuing Education Hours: 10.5

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Course Description

The Early Psychosis Intervention Services Fidelity Scales are three overlapping fidelity scales that assess the degree to which services adhere to evidence-based practices for early psychosis intervention. These include the First Episode Psychosis Services Fidelity Scale (FEPS-FS 1.1), the Clinical High Risk for Psychosis Services Fidelity Scale (CHRPS-FS) and the First Episode Psychosis Services Fidelity Scale for Bipolar Disorder (FEPS-FS BP). The First Episode Psychosis Services Fidelity Scale (FEPS-FS 1.1) was the first of the three scales to be developed and is the most highly tested of the measures. The other two measures have been adapted from the FEPS-FS to assess team-based treatment for those at Clinical High Risk for Psychosis and those with bipolar disorder.

The FEPS-FS 1.1 is a highly reliable measure of the quality of first episode psychosis services if used by trained raters who follow the procedures outlined in the manual. The fidelity scale describes the components of first episode psychosis services and the rating criteria for each component. The manual describes the procedures required to systematically collect the data that support the ratings. The FEPS-FS 1.0 manual describes the procedures required to assess services for those with a first episode of a schizophrenia spectrum disorder, it has been published and is available online for free or in a paper version for a small charge. The manual for the three scales is in development for publishing in 2026.

Learning Objectives:

• Explain the purpose and importance of fidelity assessment in ensuring quality and evidence-based care in first episode psychosis services.
• Describe the structure, components, and evidence base of the First Episode Psychosis Services Fidelity Scales (including FEPS-FS and related tools).
• Plan and implement a fidelity assessment process, including preparation, data collection methods, and coordination of key roles (e.g., team leader, data abstractor).
• Apply fidelity assessment tools and resources (manuals, interview guides, and rating criteria) to conduct reliable and respectful evaluations.
• Analyze and synthesize multiple data sources to generate fidelity ratings and actionable feedback to support program improvement.

Dr. Donald Addington

Donald Addington serves as Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Calgary and is affiliated with both the Mathison Centre and the Hotchkiss Brain Institute. He completed his training in England before joining the University of Calgary in 1984. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Addington has contributed extensively to research, education, and administrative leadership. His administrative roles have included eleven years as Chair of the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Calgary and six years as Board Chair of the Canadian Psychiatric Association.

In 1984, Dr. Addington established the psychosis research unit, which later became part of the Mathison Centre. His research focus has evolved from clinical investigations to health services research. In 1991, he developed and published the Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia, now available online in 40 languages. In 2016, he introduced the First Episode Psychosis Fidelity Scale and was honored with the International Early Psychosis Association Angelo Cocchi award for his contributions to research and the implementation of first episode psychosis services.

He has over 160 Peer Reviewed Publications. His Web of Science metrics as of February 26, 2026: h index 63; average citations per article 57.33; total citations 14,260 across 10,964 citing articles.