Children who struggle with a serious behavior problem that manifests itself in police intervention, difficulties in school, violence and substance use need assistance. MST is a therapy program run by the National Agency for Children and Families for families of children aged 12-18 who struggle with a serious behavior problem. Child protection services throughout the country can refer families to the program, which is available throughout the country.

Therapy objectives

• the child lives in his or her own home

• the child attends school or work

• the child does not get in trouble with the law

• the child does not use drugs

• the child does not use violence or make threats

The therapy

The therapy usually takes 3-5 months and is primarily aimed at increasing the ability of parents to deal with their children’s problems. The aim is generally to improve communication and cohesion within the family, connections and consultation between parents and schools and other key actors in the child’s environment. The MST therapy therefore focuses on the child’s whole surroundings: parents, family, social group, school and leisure.

The therapy takes place in the family home and requires the child to live in the home. A therapy specialist meets parents, and, depending on the circumstances of the child, in their home according to agreement. Parents also have access to a therapy provider for consultation by telephone 24 hours a day.

Adapting to the needs of each family

The therapy aims are clear, taking into account the problems of each child, and how to reduce the problem and strengthen the parents’ coping skills. The treatment is adapted to the needs of each family. The emphasis is on finding ways that suit the strengths of the individual in his or her environment.

The status of the child with regard to goals is evaluated every week and results of goals are reviewed as necessary.

Quality control

The MST method has been developed based on research on what works in treatment of behavioral problems, and therapists and team leaders are regularly trained in the methods of MST. To ensure quality of treatment, therapists are regularly evaluated to see if they are following the validated methods of MST.

The team leader provides therapists with weekly professional guidance in consultation with an external MST specialist. In those sessions an analysis of therapy progress and interventions is carried out.

Assessment of results

Individual goals can vary but are based on overall goals: that the child can live at home, attend school or work, avoid encounters with the law, and avoid drugs and the use of violence or threats. The results of the therapy are evaluated based on the status of overall goals at the beginning and end of therapy and also after 6, 12 and 18 months.