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Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT)

Therapy Session Discussion

Multidimensional Family Therapy

(MDFT) is internationally recognized as a leading family program to help youth with challenging behavior problems, such as substance use, delinquency, aggression, school problems and family conflict. It also helps youth with mental health issues, such as trauma, depression, and anxiety. 

Adkins Counseling Services have been working with Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT) since 2021 with repeated, positive results. 

How is MDFT different? 

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  • MDFT is a brief but intensive program. Sessions occur 1-3 hours a week and last for 4-6 months.

  • Sessions can occur in the clinic, home, school, or virtually.

  • MDFT supports parents to improve supervision of their youth and improve parental skills.

  • MDFT addresses trauma symptoms and improves mental health symptoms.

  • MDFT improves school behaviors, attendance, and academics.

  • MDFT provides youth with drug testing.

  • Generally, during treatment, the youth does not need to have other mental health services such as individual psychotherapy, family therapy, or substance use treatment - this is all covered in MDFT.

Girl in Therapy
Happy Teen in Postive Social Setting

How do we know MDFT works?

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  • MDFT has been scientifically studied and tested over the last 30 years.

  • MDFT recognized in programs across the US and Europe as an effective Evidence Based Program.

  • Families participating in MDFT are more likely to keep the youth at home and significantly reduce child protection reports.

  • Studies show stronger outcomes compared to residential mental heath and substance use treatment.

Multidimensional Family Therapy

​MDFT is Proven to Reduce 

  • Substance Misuse

  • Mental Health Symptoms

  • Aggressive Behavior

  • Negative Peer Relationships

  • Crime & Delinquency

  • Out of Home Placement

MDFT is Proven to Enhance

  • School Performance

  • Family Functioning & Stability

  • Prosocial Involvement

  • Positive Peer Relationships

To qualify for MDFT, youth must:

  • Be 9 to 17 years old

  • Have Idaho Medicaid, qualify for the YES program, or have other insurance that covers MDFT (contact us for more details) 

  • Have high needs affecting multiple areas of his/her life (i.e. family conflict, mental health, delinquency, substance use, ect.)

  • Have at least one parent/guardian willing to participate in treatment 

How to get started:

  1. Contact us at (208) 840-1992 to talk about your situation and determine if MDFT is the right option for you.

  2. Schedule a meeting with us to finalize the intake process.

  3. Begin your MDFT journey and pave the way for a brighter future!

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