Treatment nonadherence poses major challenges in 21^st century clinical practice. Despite thirty years of research into its cause and cure, medication adherence continues to be a significant risk factor for poor prognosis in schizophrenia. Patients with mental health disorders consistently experience above average rates of nonadherence, especially those diagnosed with schizophrenia. While schizophrenia affects 1.1% of the population worldwide, it ranks in the top ten disability-causing conditions, making it one of the most costly medical conditions. Nonadherence to medication regimens contributes significantly to disability and high costs, imposing excessive burdens on patients, families and society as a whole. Research indicates that the long-term prognosis is improved with early recognition, treatment and stabilization. A model for incorporating evidence-based psychotherapeutic and educational strategies serves to forge adherence, improve treatment outcomes and set the course for stabilization.