Multi-Dimensional Family Therapy (MDFT)

Multi-Dimensional Family Therapy is an intensive, in-home, evidence-based youth treatment program nationally recognized for its ability to significantly:

• Reduce substance abuse
• Improve problem behavior
• Improve overall family functioning

Success is gained by taking a comprehensive, multi-dimensional approach that involves people from all areas of the young person’s life, including:

• Family
• Peers
• Teachers, juvenile justice officials and those from other community networks
  

Treatment lasts six months and is provided by master’s level clinicians and bachelor’s level assistants. Sessions take place two to three times per week in the youth’s home, consisting of one-on-one therapy with the youth, counseling for the parents, and activities and therapy that allow the youth and parents to interact.
 
When needed, other family members are included as well. Interventions with school staff and other providers may also be held to address specific issues.
 
Youths are given the tools and strategies they need to feel better about themselves, problem solve, better connect with peers, reach goals and reduce stress. Parents learn successful parenting practices, ways to improve their relationship with their child and strategies to enhance household communication.

Therapists also work with families to ensure that basic needs like housing, food and energy are being met. When needed, referrals are made to other community services.

Program staff is bilingual and includes a board-certified psychiatrist able to conduct psychiatric evaluations and prescribe needed medications.

For more information, call (203) 330-6790 and ask to speak with the MDFT program manager.