Young people are strongly influenced by the "systems" around them such as family, peers, school and neighbors. Multisystemic therapy (MST) helps promote positive behavior changes within these environments. MaineHealth Behavioral Health provides expert MST services for at-risk youth.
Family-focused care for at-risk youth
MST is intensive, family-focused, treatment for youth ages 12 - 17 who demonstrate problem behaviors and are at risk for out-of-home placement at a juvenile detention facility or residential treatment program.
What are the goals of multisystemic therapy (MST)?
- Decrease behavioral issues and clinical symptoms
- Empower parents/caregivers to address future adolescent behavioral issues
- Reduce out-of-home placements
What is MST for problem sexual behavior (MST-PSB)?
MST for problem sexual behavior (MST-PSB) is a unique treatment program designed to serve youth and family in their community. It is an intensive, goal-oriented treatment program that addresses the many factors that impact problem sexual behavior. MST-PSB is designed for youth ages 10 -17. MST-PSB benefits include:
- Reduced long-term rates of crime by juvenile offenders
- Decreased re-arrests and incarcerations
- Reduced alcohol and drug use
- Improvements in family functioning
- Decreased behavioral and mental health issues
- Reduced days on probation and confinement when juveniles who complete the program reach adulthood
- Reduced recidivism of problem sexual behaviors and accountability
More about our services
MST therapists are available 24/7 with on-call support for patients and families. They can provide prompt response in urgent situations. Therapists are also supported by a team and provide services in the youth's and family's natural environments, including home, school and community.
Length of Treatment
- The typical length of treatment for MST lasts 3-5 months for 4-6 hours a week.
- MST-PSB can last 6-8 months for 6-8 hours a week.
- Youths (ages 12-17 for MST and 10-17 for MST-PSB) who are at high risk for out-of-home placements (such as juvenile detention facilities, residential treatment program and/or hospitals).
- MST/MST-PSB is home-based therapy, so providers work directly and intensively with all family members.
MST/MST-PSB is available in Cumberland and York Counties.
Provider Referrals
To refer a patient for multi-systemic therapy:
- Please complete our referral form and fax all information to 207-661-8559.
- Please call 207-661-5434 with any questions.