Multi-systemic Therapy

Multi-systemic Therapy (MST) is a family- and community-based treatment that is designed to help at-risk youth and their families. MST is based on the idea that multiple systems (such as family, school, and community) contribute to an individual's behavior and well-being. The therapy aims to address multiple systems to create positive change in the youth's behavior and overall well-being.

MST is a short-term therapy that usually lasts around 3-5 months. The therapist works with the youth, their family, and other systems (such as schools, probation officers, and mental health agencies) to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses the youth's specific needs. The therapist provides support, guidance, and coaching to help the youth and their family develop the skills and resources needed to overcome the challenges they are facing.

MST is a flexible and individualized approach that can be tailored to the needs of the youth and their family. The therapist uses a range of evidence-based practices to address the various systems that are impacting the youth's behavior, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, behavior management, and family therapy. The therapist also works with the youth and their family to identify and access community resources, such as job training programs, substance abuse treatment centers, and after-school activities.

Research has shown that MST can be an effective treatment for a variety of mental health and behavioral issues. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that MST was more effective than usual care in reducing delinquent behavior in at-risk youth. Another study published in the Journal of Family Psychology found that MST was more effective than individual therapy in reducing substance use in at-risk youth.

Multi-systemic Therapy is a promising treatment for at-risk youth and their families that addresses multiple systems in a flexible and individualized manner. If you are a parent or caregiver of an at-risk youth, or are an at-risk youth yourself, MST may be a helpful treatment option to consider.