Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST)
Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST)
The One Hope United Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST) Program is a program for juvenile offenders ages 10 to 17 that intensively addresses the multidimensional nature of behavior problems in troubled youth. This evidence-based treatment focuses on those factors in each youth’s social network that are contributing to his or her antisocial behavior.
The primary goals of MST are to decrease rates of antisocial behavior and other clinical problems, improve functioning (e.g., family relations, school performance), and achieve these outcomes at a cost savings by reducing the use of out-of-home placements such as incarceration, residential treatment, and hospitalization. The ultimate goal of MST is to empower families to build a healthy environment through the mobilization of existing child, family, and community resources. MST is delivered in the natural environment (home, school, or community).
Program operates in Kane, DeKalb and McHenry Counties in Northern Illinois and Clinton, Crawford, Edwards, Effingham, Fayette, Franklin, Hamilton, Hardin, Jefferson, Lawrence, Madison, Marion, Richland, St. Clair, Wabash, Washington, White and Wayne counties in Southern Illinois.
Specific Services Offered
- Immediate full assessment (family, school and community).
- Minimum of twice weekly in-home therapy.
- Monthly reports to casework staff.
- MST therapist participation in Juvenile Court.
- Parent education and support.
- Substance abuse counseling.
- Case management (24 hours a day, seven days a week).
- Weekly case consultation.
Who is Eligible?
Youth between the ages of 11 and 17 who are experiencing delinquent behavior or other severe behavioral issues and who are at risk of out-of-home placement.
Referrals
One Hope United accepts referrals from all of the counties listed above. Click here to download a referral form for counties in Southern Illinois.
Cost
There is no cost to families in this program.
Quote from client
“MST helped me by getting me and my family more together, and to get along with each other and talk. But it also got me to realize to stay out of trouble and stop hanging out with the wrong peers, to stop and think before my actions. It helped me a lot so I would not hang out with the people I hang out with as much as I used to. It helped me to stay home and stay out of trouble.”
-MST Client, Age 12
