Multisystemic Therapy (MST) is a unique, comprehensive, evidence- based treatment model that provides intensive, in-home treatment to families. MST addresses the multiple factors known to be related to misconduct across the key settings, or systems, within which youth are embedded (e.g. family, peers, school, neighborhood). MST strives to promote behavior change in the youth’s natural environment, using the strengths of each system to facilitate change.

MST is a family-focused and community-based treatment program that has:
• been the focus of several major research studies
• demonstrated clinical and cost-effectiveness for youth with complex emotional, social, and academic needs.
• removed barriers to treatment by treatment occurring in family homes.

MST offers direct therapeutic in-home services to caregivers and youth to help support complex behavioral needs. MST addresses problem behaviors by addressing all aspects of the youth’s ecology (family, peers, school and community). MST addresses concerns around aggressive behavior, family cohesion, academic support, substance use, peer conflict, criminal behavior and more. Treatment consists of 2-3 sessions a week for the duration of 3-5 months. During treatment, MST also provides 24/7 on call support for any crisis. MST utilizes a strengths-based approach to help empower the caregiver to help youth make positive, long-lasting changes and avoid out of home placement.

Families with a youth who are 12 to 17 years old and who meets some or all of the following criteria:

•  Youth at imminent risk of out-of-home placement due to criminal behavior or misconduct
•  Youth at risk of or with current or previous involvement in the criminal court system
•  Physical aggression at home, at school, or in the community
•  Specific types of criminal misconduct or risky behavior
•  Verbal aggression or verbal threats of harm to others in the context of problems listed above
•  Substance use issues

Medicaid managed care plans accepted for the Mental Health Department:

• Fidelis
• Healthfirst
• Amerigroup-Healthplus
• Emblem
• Affinity
• Metroplus
• United Healthcare

Providing ongoing, comprehensive support remains a priority at NAC. Building Blocks participants are also eligible for the following programs: learn about the other programs and supports available to all families receiving services at NAC.

• Champions for Children’s Health
• Children and Family Treatment and Support Services (CFTSS)
• Family Mental Health Clinic
• Family Permanency Center
• Peter Haje Center for Center
• Educational Advocacy & Tutoring
• Youth Development & Mentoring Programs
• Recreational Services
• Food Bank
• Safe Haven LGBTQI+ Support