Multisystemic Therapy (MST) is a highly effective, evidence-based intervention that addresses adverse behaviors in young people, particularly those exhibiting delinquent behavior. 

Grounded in principles that target various systems in a young person's life—such as family, school, peers, and community—MST provides a comprehensive approach to treatment, focusing on long-term behavioral change. Maintaining fidelity ensures that MST consistently delivers positive outcomes across these diverse systems and settings. 

For decades, wilderness camps for teens have promised life-changing results for teens who are at risk or troubled. Marketed as a last resort for desperate parents, these juvenile delinquency programs claim to rehabilitate teenagers dealing with behavioral issues, substance abuse, and mental health challenges. But beneath these promises lies a much darker reality.

Substance misuse within families is a significant and growing concern within the child welfare system. The challenges are multifaceted and deeply entrenched, often leading to devastating outcomes for both parents and their children. According to recent data, parental substance use is a contributing factor in approximately 26% of substantiated cases of child maltreatment and plays a role in over one-third of cases where a child is removed from the home. 

Multisystemic Therapy (MST) is a dynamic, evidence-based approach designed to address complex behavioral problems in young people. At its core, MST works within the ecological systems- family, peers, school, and community - influencing a young person's life.

By working within these systems, MST can support at-risk young people. This can be particularly important when a young person is faced with a difficult transition — for example, changing schools, adapting to a blended family structure, or transitioning home from placement or foster care. 

Families can be a person’s primary source of support as well as stress. When used correctly, family therapy plays a pivotal role in addressing and resolving familial tensions, improving relationships as well as the wellness of individual family members.  

Family therapy can help improve boundary-setting and communication skills. It can also provide a space for families to process and share their emotions, enabling family members to understand one another’s perspectives and offer meaningful support to each other. 

Unfortunately, some families can run into difficulties with family therapy. Common barriers include logistical issues, cultural beliefs and values, lack of awareness, and even skepticism or hesitancy from family members to participate. Recognizing and addressing these barriers is crucial for the success of therapeutic interventions.