Multi-Dimensional Family Therapy (MDFT)

Multi-Dimensional Family Therapy at Boys & Girls Village is for children and adolescents ages 9 to 18 who are at risk for substance abuse and are exhibiting emotional and behavioral difficulties, including:

Aggressive behavior
Disrespect or disobedience at home or school
Legal problems
Low self-esteem
Trauma Issues

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

Program requirements and eligibility

Treatment lasts for up to six months and is provided by a master’s level clinician and a therapist assistant. Sessions take place 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.

Outcomes

Clients 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.

Our program has been nationally recognized for its ability to significantly:

Reduce substance abuse
Improve problem behavior
Improve overall family functioning

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