What is MST?
Multisystemic Therapy (MST) is a unique, goal-oriented, comprehensive treatment program designed to serve multi-problem youth in their community. MST is the only family-focused and community-based treatment program that has:
- been the focus of several major research studies, and
- demonstrated clinical and cost-effectiveness for youth with complex emotional, social, and academic needs.
MST was developed at the Family Services Research Center at the Medical University of South Carolina, and uses only treatment strategies that are supported by research.
Who should receive MST?
MST is effective in helping youth with chronic, violent delinquent behavior and youth with serious emotional problems, including:
- truancy and academic problems
- serious disrespect and disobedience
- aggressive behavior (fighting and property destruction)
- criminal behavior
- drug and alcohol problems
- running away
- problems at home
- negative peer relations
- in custody of the Office of Juvenile Justice
How does MST use a “home-based model”?
- MST Therapists are available twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week.
- Services are provided in the home, school, neighborhood, and community.
- Caseloads of therapists are small (4-6 families per therapist) and treatment is intensive, often including multiple contracts with family and other participants every week.
- The length of treatment averages 2-5 months.
- Therapists are fully trained in MST.
- Therapists work in teams and provide coverage for each other’s caseloads.
Where can I get MST services in my community?
Preventive Measures Programs, Inc. provides MST services in Madison, Tensas, East and West Carroll, Richland, Ouachita and Franklin Parishes.
Our therapists are diverse in age and are thoroughly trained and supported in the MST model.
For questions and inquiries, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today. You may give us a call at 318-574-0098 or send a message to cybholmes@yahoo.com.