Multisystemic Therapy (MST) is an intensive, family-based treatment approach that helps youth ages 12-17 decrease and prevent anti-social and delinquent behaviors.
Multisystemic Therapy at Family Services of NW PA is designed to help youth ages 12-17 years old with chronic, delinquent behavior and/or serious emotional problems, such as:
- Criminal behavior
- Aggressive behavior
- Drug and alcohol issues
- Running away
- Truancy and/or Academic problems
- Serious disrespect and/or Disobedience
Goals of Multisystemic Therapy:
- Provide effective, comprehensive, family-based treatment for youths and their families
- Improve communication and cohesion among families of chronic & violent offenders
- Reduce recidivism among chronic juvenile offenders
- Reduce out of home placements
Multisystemic Therapy is delivered by master's-level trained therapists. The youth and family have multiple contacts with the therapist each week, totaling approximately three (3) hours.
Referrals:
Multisystemic Therapy is available to youth ages 12-17 years old. To qualify, at least one adult caregiver must participate in treatment.
Referrals to Multisystemic Therapy can be made through:
- Children and Youth Services
- Mental Health Base Service Unit
- Juvenile Probation Office
Self-referrals can be made by calling Family Services of NW PA at 814-866-4500.
