Multisystemic Therapy Program

Program Overview

Multisystemic Therapy (MST) is an intensive, evidence-based treatment program for youth ages 12 to 17 who are at risk of being placed outside the home or who are already in an out-of-home placement. MST is built on the understanding that when a young person struggles with antisocial or unlawful behavior, the causes are rarely simple. Family life, friendships, school, neighborhood, and the young person’s own characteristics all play a role.

Rather than focusing only on the young person, MST looks at all of these interconnected influences. Therapists work across every environment that shapes a young person’s life, because lasting change depends on addressing the full range of factors driving the behavior, not just one or two.

Treatment plans are built with families, not handed down to them. Parents and caregivers are active partners throughout the process, and the direction of treatment reflects their priorities and goals.

MST therapists provide home-based services with around-the-clock availability, working directly alongside families to build the skills and confidence they need to navigate real challenges in real settings, whether at home, at school, or in the community.

Population Served

Youth ages 12-17 and their families

Locations

Currently, MHY delivers MST services in Allegheny County, Beaver County, Butler County, Clarion County, Forest County, Lawrence County, and Venango County in Western Pennsylvania and Carbon, Monroe, Pike, and Wayne counties in Eastern Pennsylvania, with plans to expand into additional surrounding counties.

Program Impact

Jessie was struggling. Growing more frustrated and angry, she began directing threats toward her family and peers. She had already received mental health services, but nothing seemed to make a lasting difference.

When Jessie was referred to MHY’s MST program, she and her family quickly sensed this approach was different. Her therapist, Abbie, worked closely with the entire family, equipping them with practical communication tools and effective de-escalation strategies to reduce conflict and rebuild trust at home

“I helped Jessie identify coping skills to reduce her anxiety, which was found to be at the root of her anger.”

Through the determination and commitment of the entire family, Jessie completed her treatment and is on the path to returning to school and developing healthier friendships.

Eligibility & Referral Process

Referrals to the MST program are typically made through Child Welfare agencies, Juvenile Justice systems, school and educational professionals, psychologists, psychiatrists, and other behavioral and mental health providers. Youth and families who meet program criteria may also self-refer, with assistance, to access MHY’s MST services. Referral processes may vary by region.

Youth and families are typically referred to the MST program through:

– Child welfare agencies
– Juvenile justice systems
– School and educational professionals
– Psychologists and psychiatrists
– Other behavioral and mental health providers
– Youth and families who meet program criteria may also self-refer

Assistance is available to help eligible families.

Intensive Behavioral Health Services Written Order Template → (CCBHO)

View Notice of Privacy Practices

Ready to Refer?

Complete the form to refer a youth to the MST program and an MHY team member will be in touch shortly.

MST Referral Form

Company

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Name of Referring Professional(Required)

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Date of Referral

Youth Name(Required)

First Last

Youth Phone

Youth Date of Birth(Required)

Youth Age(Required)

Sex

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MA #

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Guardian/Parent/Caregiver Name(Required)

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Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code

Reason(s) for MST Referral(Required)